A farmer identified as Atakli Christopher, 48, has been sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment by the Sogakope Circuit Court in the Central Tongu District for defilement and incest involving his biological daughter. The ruling was delivered on January 24, 2026, after the accused pleaded guilty to the charges against him.
Police and prosecution said the offences occurred in November 2025 at Mafi Devime, where the accused resided with his victim. The court heard that Mr Christopher had relocated the child from her mother’s care in Dawhenya to live with him, and that a pattern of sexual abuse began after her relocation. The victim was just 13 years old at the time of the offence.
According to the prosecution led by Deputy Inspector Nene Oman VI, the victim suffered a genital infection as a result of the abuse, which continued for some time before she fled her father’s home to escape further harm. She eventually sought refuge in Mepe township in the North Tongu District, where she disclosed her ordeal.
Authorities say the victim first sought help from her paternal grandfather and an aunt on multiple occasions without intervention. It was only after she escaped and reported the abuse that community leaders and the local assemblyman became involved, leading to a formal police complaint. The National Investigation Bureau (NIB) and police investigators then visited the scene, documented evidence, and arranged for a medical examination and treatment for the victim.
The court convicted Mr Christopher on his own plea to two counts: defilement of a female under 16 years and incest, both offences contrary to Sections 101 and 105(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29). The judge ordered a 10-year custodial sentence.
Local residents expressed shock at the nature of the offences and frustration at what they see as a rising pattern of sexual abuse and incest in the area. Some community members welcomed the conviction and commended law enforcement for its handling of the matter, while also urging continued vigilance in protecting vulnerable children.
Authorities have reiterated that sexual offences involving minors are treated with the utmost seriousness, and that perpetrators will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. The convict is serving his sentence following the court’s order.