In a quiet town like Nsuaem, where neighbors typically go about their routines, a seemingly ordinary encounter turned violent, leading to a miner’s 12-year prison sentence with hard labor. Joseph Ntiful, a 28-year-old miner, was convicted for repeatedly stabbing a local mason, James Adu, in a shocking altercation that stemmed from a simple question.
The incident unfolded on the night of June 4, 2024, when Adu noticed Ntiful standing silently by a motorbike near his home. In what seemed like a casual inquiry, Adu asked Ntiful about his purpose, even offering to help him find his landlord. But instead of a reply, Ntiful’s silence grew into seething anger, eventually exploding into an unexpected attack.
According to court proceedings, presided over by Mrs. Hathia Ama Manu, Ntiful’s defense — that he acted out of provocation — was dismissed. The judge emphasized that the punishment was intended to deter similar behavior, particularly among Ghana’s youth. Ntiful was not only sentenced to 12 years but was also ordered to pay GH¢10,000 in compensation to Adu.
The prosecution, led by Superintendent Juliana Essel-Dadzie, detailed how a misunderstanding between the two men quickly escalated. Neighbors intervened to prevent a physical confrontation, but as tensions appeared to subside, Ntiful launched a surprise attack, stabbing Adu in the back multiple times.
Adu, injured but determined, reported the assault to the Nsuaem Police. While Ntiful went into hiding, the police worked relentlessly to track him down, eventually capturing him over a month later through a well-coordinated operation.
