Defense Lawyer Links Stolen Jewelry to Asantehene’s Late Wife
The trial of domestic workers and others accused of stealing valuables from the home of former Sanitation Minister Cecilia Abena Dapaah took an unexpected turn on Monday, March 24, 2025, during cross-examination. Defense lawyer Augustine Gyamfi suggested that some of the stolen jewelry allegedly belonged to the late wife of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and had been returned under pressure.
Cecilia Dapaah Denies Returning Jewelry
During questioning, Cecilia Dapaah revealed that her late brother, Nana Akwasi Essan II (Charles Dapaah), was a subchief under Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. She also confirmed that he owned the $210,000 allegedly stolen from her home. When pressed on whether she had returned jewelry belonging to Otumfuo’s late wife following community pressure, she strongly denied the claim, stating, “This has never happened. It’s history to me.”
Defense Challenges Jewelry and Kente Theft Claims
Lawyer Gyamfi argued that his client, Sarah Agyei, was falsely accused, as the kente cloths reportedly stolen did not match those recovered by the police. He further claimed that Cecilia Dapaah had already returned the disputed jewelry through the Manhyia Palace. However, the former minister maintained that she had no knowledge of such events.
Accused Persons Face Multiple Charges
The seven accused persons, including former house helps Patience Botwe and Sarah Agyei, as well as Benjamin Sowah, Malik Dauda, Christiana Achab, Job Pomary, and Yahaya Sumaila, face charges of conspiracy, stealing, dishonestly receiving, and money laundering. They have all pleaded not guilty and have been granted bail.
Next Court Hearing Scheduled for May 12
The trial will continue on May 12, 2025, with further cross-examination of Cecilia Dapaah. The case has gained nationwide attention, with new claims emerging about the stolen valuables and their potential ties to Manhyia Palace.
Source: 3News