‘Jirapa Dubai’ Murder: Court Jails Killer for Life

The Principal State Attorney for the Upper West Region, Abdul Shakur Saeed, expressed satisfaction following the High Court’s decision to sentence Elisha Mahama to life imprisonment for the brutal murder of Eric Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Royal Cosy Hills Hotel, popularly known as “Jirapa Dubai.”

Delivering the verdict on October 15, 2025, the court found Mahama guilty after forensic evidence conclusively linked him to the crime. Bloodstained footprints and fingerprints matching his DNA were discovered at the scene where Johnson was killed.

Two other accused persons, Belinda Miller and Kweku Kankumbata, were acquitted and discharged due to lack of evidence.

Speaking after the ruling, Mr. Saeed described the judgment as “fair, thorough, and just,” commending the judiciary for its professionalism.

“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 stated.

He emphasized that the prosecution’s case was built on scientific and forensic proof, which clearly established Mahama’s guilt.

Mr. Saeed also praised the court for acquitting the other two accused, calling it a sign of judicial impartiality.

“It gladdens every lawyer when justice is dispensed fairly. Nobody is happy about Eric Johnson’s death, but every accused person deserves a fair trial,” he said.

When asked about a possible appeal, Mr. Saeed expressed confidence that the conviction would stand firm in any higher court.

“If the defence opts to appeal, we are ready. The Appeals Court is also our playground,” he remarked.

He dismissed media reports claiming he wept in court, clarifying that emotion—not tears—explained the change in his tone.

The court directed that Mahama serve his sentence at the Ankaful Maximum Security Prison in the Central Region.