- Elisha Mahama sentenced to life imprisonment for murdering Eric Johnson in January 2024
- Forensic evidence — including bloodstained footprints and fingerprints — linked Mahama to the crime
- Two co-accused, Belinda Miller and Kweku Kankumbata, acquitted due to lack of evidence
A court has sentenced Elisha Mahama to life imprisonment for the murder of Eric Johnson, the CEO of Royal Cosy Hills Hotel, popularly known as “Jirapa Dubai.”
Reacting to the verdict on Wednesday, October 15, State Attorney Mr. Saeed described the ruling as “fair, thorough, and just,” commending the judiciary for its professionalism throughout the months-long trial.
“They say the wheels of justice grind slowly, but they grind exceedingly fine. Though we cannot bring Eric Johnson back, justice has been served,” he said.
The court found Mahama guilty after forensic evidence linked him directly to the crime scene, including bloodstained footprints and fingerprints found in the pool of blood where the victim was discovered.
Two other accused persons — Belinda Miller and Kweku Kankumbata — were acquitted and discharged due to insufficient evidence.
Mr. Saeed emphasized the strength of the prosecution’s case:
“The evidence spoke clearly—he was the one who killed Eric Johnson.”
Regarding a potential appeal, the State Attorney expressed full confidence in the verdict:
“If the defense chooses to appeal, we are ready. The Appeals Court is also our playground, and we are certain this impeccable decision cannot be overturned.”
He also praised the court’s decision to acquit the two co-accused, citing it as evidence of judicial fairness.
“It’s every lawyer’s joy when justice is served fairly. No one is happy about Eric Johnson’s death, but everyone deserves a fair trial.”
Mr. Saeed also addressed false reports suggesting he became emotional in court:
“Some reports claimed I wept or pleaded for clemency—that’s untrue. My voice changed due to emotion, but I did not cry.”
With 17 years at the Bar, Mr. Saeed said the case stands out as one of the most emotionally challenging and significant of his career.
The court ordered that Elisha Mahama serve his sentence at Ankaful Maximum Security Prison in the Central Region.
The murder of Eric Johnson at his residence in Jirapa in January 2024 sent shockwaves through the Upper West Region and across the nation. Johnson was widely respected for his contributions to tourism and job creation through his luxury resort, known as Jirapa Dubai.
