A student of the University for Development Studies (UDS), 20-year-old Salifu Nko, has been handed a life sentence by the Tamale High Court after being convicted of murdering a fellow student in a case linked to a romantic rivalry.
The ruling was delivered by Justice Charles Acheampong following a jury decision, where six of the seven jurors found him guilty.
The murder, which occurred in September 2024, stunned students and staff of the university. The lifeless body of the victim was discovered in an abandoned building close to the campus, sparking widespread fear and speculation.
Initially, the victim’s family suspected he had fallen prey to armed robbers. However, police investigations revealed that Salifu Nko, who had previously dated the deceased’s girlfriend, was responsible for the killing, driven by anger and heartbreak after the girl ended their relationship.
Surveillance footage from a nearby residence proved to be crucial evidence, capturing the moment the victim was chased into the uncompleted structure, where he was later found with multiple stab wounds.
During a search of the convict’s room, investigators discovered the victim’s mobile phone hidden under his bed. When questioned, Nko claimed he had picked up the phone after witnessing the deceased being chased by unknown individuals. However, further evidence contradicted his story.
Telecom records presented in court showed that shortly after the incident, Nko removed the SIM card from the victim’s phone and inserted it into his own device. He then used the number to send misleading messages to the deceased’s contacts, including one claiming he was in danger. Investigators also found that Nko had impersonated the victim in a message to his former girlfriend, breaking up with her on the victim’s behalf. He later admitted in court that this was a deliberate act to make her feel the pain of a breakup.
After considering all the evidence, the jury returned a guilty verdict, resulting in the life sentence. The case has sparked renewed conversations about youth mental health, emotional maturity, and the dangers of unresolved relationship tensions.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
