In a tragic case that highlights the dangers of unregulated motor tricycle (Aboboyaa) usage, 20-year-old Kofi Gideon has been sentenced to six months in prison following a fatal accident that claimed the life of two-year-old Samuel Annor Kojo. The Bibiani District Court, presided over by Mr. Lord Delvin Essandoh, also ordered Gideon to pay GHC6,000 as compensation to the victim’s mother, Mary Hagan, to support her through this difficult time.
The court’s decision followed Gideon’s guilty plea to multiple charges, including dangerous and careless cycling, negligently causing harm, operating an unregistered vehicle, and riding without a license. The young rider’s actions on May 30, 2023, resulted in a fatal accident near the Amanano Rural Bank when he lost control of his speeding, unregistered motor tricycle. As Gideon approached a crowded section of the road near Bibiani, his vehicle struck young Samuel, who was attempting to cross with his elder brother. The toddler sustained critical injuries and was quickly transported to Bibiani Government Hospital but was tragically pronounced dead on arrival. A post-mortem report later confirmed that Samuel died of bilateral hemothorax with asphyxia, indicating internal bleeding and suffocation.
In response to the incident, Gideon was initially granted police bail, reporting regularly while awaiting legal advice from the Attorney General’s office. Upon receiving direction, authorities re-arrested him, and formal charges were filed on September 26, 2024. During the court proceedings, the defense highlighted Gideon’s remorse, his status as a first-time offender, and his efforts to make amends by contributing GHC2,000 towards funeral and compensation expenses. Despite these factors, the court stressed the gravity of the offense, pointing to the loss of a young life and the need for accountability.
Mr. Essandoh delivered a six-month sentence to be served concurrently across the multiple charges. He underscored the sentence as a deterrent to discourage reckless behavior on the road, especially among unlicensed riders. Chief Inspector Benjamin Owusu Agyemang, the lead prosecutor, noted the prevalence of similar offenses involving unregistered and unlicensed vehicles, calling for stricter regulations on Aboboyaa operators to prevent future tragedies.
