The Ho High Court has convicted and given a 47-year sentence each to two individuals for their roles in the gruesome murder of Marcus Mawutor Adzahli, the former Assembly Member for the Sogakope South Electoral Area.

The presiding judge, Justice John Ekow Mensah, delivered the judgement.

Another person, Richard Adikyere, was sentenced to life imprisonment after being found guilty of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and robbery.

Emmanuel Xetro and Stephen Adzibolo, who were also found guilty on similar charges, were each sentenced to 47 years behind bars.

The court found the trio guilty of participating in the killing of Mr Adzahli, who was reportedly attacked and murdered in his home in Sogakope during the early hours of Sunday, March 1, 2020. The crime sent shockwaves through the Sogakope community, drawing widespread condemnation.

Two other individuals, Samuel Zotorvi and Christian Zotorvi, believed to have also been involved in the attack, were earlier sentenced to 15 years in prison each.

Following the judgement, Geoffrey Adzahli, father of the deceased Assembly Member, expressed mixed emotions. He noted the heavy burden his son's death had placed on the family, describing Marcus as their breadwinner. However, he commended the Ghana Police Service and investigators for their thorough work in ensuring justice for his family.

“They did a great job. This is a victory for justice, and I thank everyone who contributed,” he said.

Senior State Attorney Andrews Dodzi Aduguin, in an exclusive interview with Class News, expressed concern over the rising occurrence of crime in the country, especially in the Volta region.

However, he reassured the public the state remained committed to enforcing the law and ensuring offenders were held accountable.

“The state is doing its utmost to bring lawbreakers to book. This verdict is a testament to our justice system's resolve to ensure justice is served,” he stated.

Mr Adugu also used the opportunity to urge the youth to refrain from criminal activities and instead channel their energy into productive ventures.

“I encourage the youth to work hard and focus on building a better future for themselves. There are countless opportunities for those who are determined and law-abiding,” he advised.

The case has attracted significant public attention, and the verdict is expected to serve as a deterrent to others contemplating similar offenses.