Trader in Court After GH¢200 Dispute Leaves Carpenter Partially Blind

A trader who allegedly injured a carpenter’s eye during a fight over an unfinished roofing job has appeared before an Accra Circuit Court.

The accused, 42-year-old Adam Zakaria, reportedly attacked carpenter Eric Djan after claiming Djan failed to complete work on his leaking roof despite receiving a GH¢200 payment.

Zakaria has been charged with causing harm and pleaded not guilty. Judge Isaac Addo, who presided over the case, granted him GH¢50,000 bail with two sureties and directed the prosecution to comply with all disclosure requirements.

According to Chief Inspector Jonas Lawer, Zakaria hired Djan in October 2024 to fix a leak at his home. However, months passed, and the work remained unfinished.

When the two met by chance on January 20, 2025, near Danquah Roundabout in Osu, Zakaria demanded an explanation.

Djan reportedly told Zakaria he had been unwell and unable to complete the repairs. This led to a heated argument, which quickly escalated.

“In the process, the accused thrust his walking stick into the complainant’s left eye,” the prosecutor stated.

The blow caused Djan to bleed heavily. Bystanders rushed him to the Police Hospital, where doctors found his vision had become blurry. Surgery was recommended to prevent further damage.

Police arrested Zakaria on May 8, 2025, nearly four months after the alleged attack. The case has stirred public interest, with many expressing concern over the violent turn of a relatively small financial dispute.

While the trial continues, legal experts say Zakaria could face serious penalties if found guilty, especially given the lasting impact on the victim’s eyesight.

The court is expected to reconvene in the coming weeks as the prosecution prepares to present further evidence.