Farmer charged with possessing Indian hemp

Asamankese, Jan 25, GNA - Kwesi Osae, a farmer, has been arraigned before the Asamankese circuit court for possession of Indian hemp.

When he asked whether he would swear by the Bible, Cross, Koran, or affirm, he said though he is a Christian, his pastor had advised him not to swear on the Bible or the Cross.

He was then made to affirm and then pleaded not guilty for possession of 940.0 grammas of Indian hemp without authority.

Prosecuting, Police Chief Inspector Ben Brew, told the court presided over by Mr Emmanuel Siameh that policemen on duty on the Asamankese/Oda motor road on July 4, 2007 signalled a taxi in which the accused was to stop.

The accused was found with a black polythene bag and when it was inspected, it was found to contain dried leaves then suspected to be Indian hemp.

He attempted to flee but was chased by the policemen and arrested.

In his caution statement to the police, accused said he bought the stuff from one Tortoise and led police to where he was operating but on seeing them he took to his heels.

GNA