Wa man sentenced to 14 years in prison for defiling 3-year-old girl

Story by: Regina Bless

A 29-year-old tricycle rider, identified as Naah Mashood, has been sentenced to 14 years’ imprisonment with hard labour for defiling a three-year-old girl at Tiegber in the Wa Municipality of the Upper West Region.

According to a press release issued by the Ghana Police Service on November 2, 2026, the convict was arrested on February 24, 2026, following a complaint lodged by the victim’s mother.

The police disclosed that the incident occurred on February 23, 2026, after the suspect, who had been contracted by the victim’s parent to pick her up from school, allegedly took her to an isolated location and sexually assaulted her.

The Upper West Regional Police Command, through its Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU), subsequently commenced investigations into the case.

Following investigations, Mashood was arraigned before the Wa District Magistrate Court before the case proceeded to the Wa High Court for trial.

On October 30, 2026, the court, presided over by Justice Osei-Wusu, found him guilty of defilement and sentenced him to 14 years in prison with hard labour.

The Upper West Regional Police Command has commended the officers involved in the investigation and prosecution, as well as members of the public who contributed to ensuring justice was served.

The police have also urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and prioritise the safety of their children. Members of the public have been encouraged to report suspected cases of child abuse and defilement to the nearest police station or DOVVSU office.

The Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting children and ensuring that perpetrators of sexual offences are brought to justice.