An Accra Court fined Abubakari Sadick, often known as Cyborg, GH¢24,000 for illegally discharging a firearm at a public function in Accra.This amounts to 2,000 fine units, with up to two years in jail in default, after he admitted to allegations of possessing and illegally using a weapon.
Cyborg was arraigned after a popular video showed him firing a weapon into the air during a public event, sparking major public safety concerns and prompt response from law enforcement.After he pled guilty, the court found him guilty on the accusations and fined him, noting that celebratory gunfire and weapon misuse pose significant hazards to public safety and will not be handled lightly by the legal system.
The offences are governed under Ghana’s Firearms Act, 1962 (Act 118), which makes it illegal to possess and recklessly discharge firearms, even if the weapon is legally owned. The law allows for penalties, prison sentences, or both, depending on the circumstances of the offense.
The Ghana Police Service has consistently warned that firearm permits do not allow public discharge and that anybody caught doing so faces arrest, prosecution, penalties, or jail.
On Tuesday, President John Mahama stated that due procedure will be followed after Asake attempted to plead on his behalf during a later meeting with the President, asking him to balance justice with mercy, claiming that the gun was discharged in the heat of the moment.Asake and his entourage greeted President Mahama during the event.
Recalling the incident during the conversation, President Mahama inquired, “he’s the one the person shot the gun for? ” Those in attendance replied affirmatively.”And he ended up in trouble,” the president remarked, drawing laughter from the audience.
The Nigerian celebrity subsequently apologized on Cyborg’s behalf. President Mahama accepted the appeal, but stated that due procedure must be followed.
Do not worry. The law is the law. ”
The music artist arrived in the nation days ago and performed at the AfroFuture Festival.
