Court Hands Life Sentence to Killer of Jirapa Dubai CEO
‘Jirapa Dubai’ Murder: Court Hands Life Sentence to Eric Johnson’s Killer
The High Court in Wa has sentenced Elisha Mahama to life imprisonment for the murder of Eric Johnson, the Chief Executive Officer of Royal Cosy Hills Hotel, popularly known as “Jirapa Dubai.”
Delivering judgment on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, the court found Mahama guilty based on compelling forensic evidence that linked him to the crime scene, including bloodstained footprints and fingerprints discovered near the victim’s body.
Principal State Attorney for the Upper West Region, Abdul Shakur Saeed, described the verdict as fair and thorough, noting that justice had finally been served. “Though we cannot bring Eric Johnson back, justice has been done. The evidence spoke clearly, he was the one who committed the act,” he said.
Two other accused persons, Belinda Miller and Kweku Kankumbata, were acquitted and discharged for lack of sufficient evidence. Mr. Saeed commended the court’s decision, saying it demonstrated impartiality and respect for due process.
He added that the ruling highlighted the importance of forensic investigation in modern criminal justice and expressed confidence that the conviction would stand if appealed.
Eric Johnson’s death in January 2024 shocked the nation. Widely admired for his contribution to tourism and job creation in northern Ghana, his “Jirapa Dubai” resort had become a symbol of innovation and local investment.
Mahama will serve his sentence at the Ankaful Maximum Security Prison in the Central Region.
