The Assin Fosu District Court has remanded 28-year-old trader Monica Ampomah into police custody for three weeks. She is accused of inflicting deep cutlass wounds on her 10-year-old daughter.
This severe alleged assault occurred after Ampomah reportedly discovered a whitish discharge in the child’s underwear for over two months. This discovery led her to suspect sexual abuse, triggering the violent reaction.
The incident underscores the persistent challenges Ghana faces in addressing domestic violence and child protection. Cases of child abuse, often stemming from misguided attempts at discipline or distress, continue to surface across various regions. The Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) of the Ghana Police Service frequently handles such sensitive matters, reflecting a societal issue that requires sustained intervention and public awareness campaigns.
Inspector Matilda Osaah Buabeng, the Prosecutor, informed the court that the complainant, Mr. Gilbert Takyi, a nurse at St. Francis Xavier Hospital, reported the matter. The child had initially sought help from her school proprietress, leading to the involvement of DOVVSU. This immediate reporting mechanism is crucial for ensuring timely intervention in cases of child abuse.
Ampomah, charged with causing harm, will be arraigned on Thursday, September 3, 2026. The court has also ordered a mental examination to determine her fitness to stand trial. This step is vital for ensuring a fair legal process and understanding the underlying factors contributing to such severe actions.
The alleged assault took place on Tuesday, July 21, at approximately 0300 hours. Ampomah reportedly woke the child and questioned her about the discharge. Dissatisfied with the child’s responses, she allegedly assaulted her with a cane and a metal rod before using a cutlass to inflict further injuries on her head, hand, and finger. The child was then reportedly driven out of the room around 0400 hours.
Subsequently, the child was taken to St. Francis Xavier Hospital in Assin Fosu for treatment. A police medical report was then submitted to DOVVSU, leading to Ampomah's arrest and caution. The legal proceedings will now focus on establishing the facts and ensuring justice for the victim, while also addressing the mental health aspects of the accused.
This case highlights the critical role of community members and institutions like schools and hospitals in identifying and reporting child abuse. Early detection and intervention are paramount to protecting vulnerable children and holding perpetrators accountable. The outcome of the mental examination and the subsequent trial will be closely watched by child protection advocates and the public.