KNUST Student Murder: Police retrieve laptop, phones of deceased hidden behind hostel

The suspect, Daniel Tuffuor (L) and the deceased Joana Yabani (R)

New developments surrounding the death of a final-year biological science student at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology have emerged, with the university authorities providing more details on the incident.

In the latest update, the management of KNUST confirmed that a laptop and mobile device belonging to the deceased student, Joana Deladem Yabani, have been retrieved, adding that the items were found hidden behind one of the school’s hostel.

This followed a search conducted by the Ghana Police Service in collaboration with the university’s security services as part of their ongoing investigation.

“The Police and the University Security Services have successfully retrieved the laptop and mobile phone belonging to Joana Deladem Yabani. These items were discovered hidden behind the Flint Hostel: a location identified through CCTV footage from the hostel’s security surveillance system,” a statement released by the school on Friday, February 28, 2025, disclosed.

The statement further stated that the police have secured crucial evidence to aid in their investigations, and that the suspect, also a final-year student of KNUST, has been taken to court.

The school management also gave assurances of their dedication, willingness, and commitment to working closely with the police to uncover the truth behind the tragic death of the late Joana.

“Investigators have secured crucial evidence to aid in the prosecution process. Following the retrieval of these belongings, the suspect in custody was arraigned before the Circuit Court at Asafo today. The court has remanded the suspect into custody, with the next hearing scheduled for 17th March 2025. The Ghana Police Service and authorities in KNUST will continue to work diligently to ensure justice is served,” the statement continued.

It added, “The management of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) remains committed to cooperating with the authorities and supporting the ongoing investigations. We extend our gratitude to the security personnel and law enforcement agencies for their swift action in handling the case.”

The management has urged students to remain calm and refrain from making decisions that could undermine or hinder the progress of the investigations.

“We urge students, staff, and the public to remain calm and allow the legal process to take its course. The University continues to prioritize the safety and security of its students and is taking further steps to enhance surveillance measures within and around campus. Our thoughts remain with the family, friends, and loved ones of Joana Deladem Yabani during this difficult time,” it concluded.

The latest update follows the apprehension of Daniel Tuffuor, as the main suspect in the gruesome murder of the late Joana, who has been taken into custody by the regional police for interrogation.