Wa High Court Sentences Murderer of Jirapa Dubai CEO to Life Imprisonment

The Wa High Court has on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, sentenced Elisha Mahama Akpanichie, aged 33, to life imprisonment for the murder of Mr. Eric Johnson, the Chief Executive officer of the Royal Cosy Hills Hotel also known
as Jirapa Dubai, a hospitality facility in the Upper West Region.

This has been announced by the Upper West Regional Police Command following a Press release dated today, 16th October, 2025.

The convict, Elisha Mahama Akpanichie, was Human Resource Manager for the Royal Cosy Hills Hotel but was dismissed from his role following multiple sexual affairs with 4 female workers at the work environment.

The tragic incident occurred on February 11, 2024, at Jirapa, when the convict brutally murdered Mr. Eric Johnson and escaped.

According to the Upper West Regional Police Command, the Police immediately launched a swift, intelligence-led operation that led to the prompt arrest of the suspect in the Central Region following Comprehensive investigations conducted, and the necessary evidence gathered, ensuring successful prosecution.

After the trial at the Wa High Court, presided over by His Lordship Justice Alhaji Yussif Assibey, the court found him guilty of murder and accordingly sentenced him to life imprisonment to be served at the Ankaful Maximum Security Prison.

The court also acquitted and discharged Belinda Miller and Kweku Kumbata, who were also standing trial in connection with the case.

Following successful prosecution of the trial, the Upper West Regional Police Command commended the investigators, prosecutors, witnesses, and members of the public who supported the case throughout the legal process leading to this significant outcome.

The Command therefore reiterates its commitment to upholding the rule of law
and ensuring that justice is delivered for all victims of crime in the Region.

Story by: Inusah Dondaliya