Fake landlord fined GH¢9,600 court fine or 16-year jail term

An Accra Circuit Court on Wednesday convicted a 52 year old transport owner Prosper Akabutu to a fine of GH¢9,600 for fraudulently selling another man’s storey building to a businesswoman.

Akabutu aka Samuel Kodzo Kugbe in default would go to jail for 16 years.

This was after the court had found Akabutu, an ex- convict, guilty on charges of conspiracy, impersonation, forgery of documents defrauding by false pretences.

His accomplice Emmanuel Owusu is at large.

Prosecuting, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) P.K Frimpong said the complainant, Ms. Comfort Dittmar, is Ghanaian domiciled in Germany.

In January 2009, Ms. Dittmar who was looking for a house to buy was introduced by a witness to Owusu as an agent to Akabutu, the owner of a two storey building situated at Community 18, Tema.

Akabutu offered and sold the house to the complainant at the cost of GH¢88,000 which was paid into his account. Akabutu then offered documents covering the building to the complainant and she (the complainant) took possession. However two persons, one Inspector Kugbe and Henry Kugbe claimed ownership of the house.

Prosecution said complainant who was unable to trace the whereabouts of Akabutu and his accomplice lodged a complainant with the Police.

Following a tip off, Akabutu was arrested at his hideout at Nima in Accra. In his cautioned statement, Akabutu admitted the offence and mentioned Owusu as his accomplice.

He however failed to lead the Police to where Owusu was.

Source: GNA