Pastor who predicted Shatta Wale’s shooting granted GHC100,000 bail

An Accra Circuit Court has granted pastor Stephen Kwesi Appiah, popularly known as Jesus Ahuofe, bail in the sum of GHC 100,000 with three sureties for alleging that dancehall artiste, Shatta Wale, would be shot in October.

The beleaguered pastor as part of his bail conditions is expected to report to the police every Monday and Thursday until the natural conclusion of the case.

The New Life Kingdom Chapel pastor has been charged by the state for causing fear and panic with his prediction of a shooting incident involving dancehall artiste, Shatta Wale on 18 October 2021. Pastor Appiah allegedly predicted that the musician was to be shot on that day.

He pleaded not guilty during his first appearance in court on 21 October. The court, presided over by Ellen Offei Ayeh, remanded him in custody to re-appear on Monday (25 October).

Shatta Wale behind bars

Meanwhile, Shatta Wale has been remanded into police custody for one week over false publication. He pleaded not guilty for publication of false news and causing fear and panic.

Three others who appeared in court with him Kojo Owusu Koranteng, Shatta’s personal assistant, Eric Vanetor, a graphic designer and Iddrisu Yussif, a beautician were charged for abetment of criminal publication of false news.

They are to reappear in court on 26 October.

Arrest

The police on Tuesday (19 October) arrested Shatta Wale over alleged gunshot attack.

“After we publicly declared him and one other person wanted, the suspect, Shatta Wale, turned himself in today Tuesday 19 October 2021, at 8.59pm.

“He has been arrested to assist the police in investigations for his alleged involvement in the creation and circulation of information intended to cause fear and panic,” the statement from the police said.

“Preliminary investigations by the police reveal the widely reported gunshot attack on Shatta Wale yesterday Monday, 18 October 2021 was a hoax,” it added.

“… One other person popularly referred to as ‘Deportee’ is currently being pursued for their possible involvement and knowledge of the circulation of false information with the intention to cause fear and panic.”

“No one will be spared if police investigations point to their possible criminal culpability in this matter. We want to caution any individual or group to desist from making false claims and engaging in acts, capable of disturbing the peace of the country because the law will come after you,” the statement said.

Source: Asaase Radio