A tragic incident in Kumasi has left a family grieving after a 48-year-old businessman was arrested for allegedly killing his girlfriend during a domestic dispute.
The suspect, Francis Arthur, is accused of causing the death of Sally Benson, a well-known beautician in Kumasi, following an altercation at Ayigya-Maxima on April 14, 2026. According to police reports, the two had been in a relationship for over a decade.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the deceased, accompanied by a female friend, had gone to Arthur’s residence after receiving information that another woman had visited him. The suspect was reportedly not at home when they arrived, and the two women waited until he returned.
Speaking on the case, Chief Inspector Samuel Agyare stated that tensions escalated when Arthur arrived and was confronted by Benson. The situation reportedly turned violent, with the suspect allegedly assaulting her repeatedly during the argument.
The victim is said to have collapsed during the altercation. In an attempt to save her, Arthur allegedly transported her in her own vehicle to the KNUST Hospital, where she was pronounced dead on arrival.
The suspect was subsequently arrested and arraigned before the Asokore Mampong District Court. Presiding judge Her Worship Hilda Esther Wryter remanded him into custody after his first court appearance on Tuesday. He is expected to reappear on May 8, 2026, as investigations continue.
The death of Sally Benson has sent shockwaves through her community. She was the owner of Sally’s Cosmetics Studio and African’s Special Pub in the Asokwa area and was widely known among residents and clients.
Her body has since been deposited at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital mortuary for preservation and autopsy.
Family members, particularly her father, Apostle Gabriel Oppong, have expressed deep sorrow over the loss. Speaking after the court proceedings, he called for justice and urged authorities to ensure that the law takes its full course.
He recounted details of the incident as explained by his daughter’s friend, stating that what began as a confrontation quickly escalated into violence. According to him, Benson collapsed after the alleged assault, and attempts to revive her proved unsuccessful.
Overcome with emotion, he described the loss as devastating, noting that his daughter was his only child following the passing of her mother. He questioned how such a tragedy could occur and appealed to the justice system to deliver accountability.
“I want justice,” he said. “We are governed by law, and I believe the law will take its course. You cannot take someone’s life and walk free.”
The case has also reignited conversations around domestic violence in Ghana, with many calling for increased awareness and stronger preventive measures.
As the legal process unfolds, the focus now remains on the upcoming court proceedings, which are expected to shed more light on the circumstances surrounding the incident. Meanwhile, family, friends, and the wider Kumasi community continue to mourn the loss of a woman described as hardworking and vibrant.
