Police in the Assin South District of Ghana’s Central Region have arrested a pastor, Prophet Mark Dzimah, founder and leader of Christ Pentecostal Church, for allegedly setting his former partner’s house on fire at Abura Kwaduagya.
The suspect was picked up on Sunday, March 1, by the Assin South District Police Command to assist with investigations into the incident. He has since been granted bail as inquiries continue.
Confirming the arrest in an interview, Assin South District Police Commander, DSP Robert Kyeremeh, said the case remains under active investigation to establish the full facts surrounding the alleged arson. He noted that the suspect has denied any involvement in the incident.
According to the police, Prophet Dzimah will be arraigned before court once investigations are concluded.
Victim Alleges Abuse and Retaliation
The complainant, 47-year-old seamstress Joyce Akomaning, says she previously had a relationship with the suspect, with whom she shares two children. She explained that she ended the relationship due to what she described as persistent physical and emotional abuse.
Madam Akomaning believes the pastor set her single-room residence ablaze out of anger following their breakup.
She expressed frustration over what she describes as the slow pace of investigations, noting that nearly two months after the incident, significant progress is yet to be made.
Property Worth Thousands Destroyed
Recounting her ordeal, the victim said the fire destroyed all her possessions, leaving her devastated and homeless.
Items lost in the blaze include:
- Three sewing machines
- Television sets
- Cash savings
- Mattress and clothing
- Travel documents
- School uniforms and bags
She estimates the total value of the destroyed property to run into thousands of Ghana cedis.
Madam Akomaning and her children are currently seeking shelter with friends as they struggle to rebuild their lives.
Fire Service Response Hampered
Eyewitnesses told reporter Shadrack Owusu Asante that the fire broke out around 9:00 p.m. on Friday. Attempts by residents to contain the blaze proved unsuccessful.
Personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service in Abura Dunkwa responded swiftly to the distress call. However, they reportedly faced challenges accessing the scene due to the layout and congestion of surrounding buildings, resulting in the complete destruction of the property.
Call for Justice and Support
The victim is appealing to the police to expedite investigations and ensure justice is served. She has also called on the public, civil society groups, and relevant authorities to support her as she works to recover from the incident.
The case has sparked concern among residents, highlighting issues of domestic violence, safety, and emergency response challenges in densely populated communities.
