In a recent verdict, the Accra High Court has imposed a hefty GH¢1 million fine on former Black Stars captain, Asamoah Gyan, for maliciously prosecuting journalist Anthony Sarfo.
The court found Gyan guilty of falsely accusing Sarfo and four others of extortion in connection with the publication of an alleged rape incident involving Gyan and Sarah Kwablah.
Gyan initially filed a lawsuit against Sarfo and the others, claiming extortion over the alleged rape story. However, the accused individuals were later found not guilty and acquitted. Subsequently, Anthony Sarfo countersued Gyan and his manager, Anim Addo, for malicious prosecution, seeking GH¢1 million in compensation.
The Fine
Justice Ernest Owusu Dapaa presided over the case and announced the ruling on Friday, December 8. The court held Gyan and Anim Addo responsible for baselessly accusing the journalist of extortion and unlawful arrest.
Notably, the court revealed that the arrest orchestrated by Anim Addo. Who aimed to safeguard Gyan’s image during a crucial move to China, rather than preventing the publication.
As part of the judgment, Anthony Sarfo was awarded GH¢900,000 in damages, with an additional GH¢111,000. For the 111 months he was out of work, receiving only GH¢1,000 during that period. Both Anim Addo and Asamoah Gyan were charged GH¢60,000 each, bringing the total fine to GH¢1,071,000.
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The Case
The background of the case dates back to 2019 when the Accra Circuit Court acquitted and discharged four individuals accused of extorting money from Asamoah Gyan to suppress the publication of a rape and sodomy story.
The defendants, including Osarfo Anthony, Chris Handler, Sarah Kwablah, and Ekow Micah, faced charges of extortion and conspiracy to commit a crime.
The alleged incident involved a sodomy story that surfaced in Ghana’s media, accusing Gyan of sexual intercourse and anal sex with Sarah Kwablah, resulting in pregnancy.
The prosecution argued that the accused individuals intended to publish the story to scare Gyan into providing them with money.
Threats to release a sex tape were made, leading to negotiations for a substantial payment. Ultimately, the case sheds light on the intricate legal battle surrounding high-profile figures. And the consequences of false accusations in the media landscape.
