Following a tragic accident in East Legon, Elrad Salifu Amoako, the 16-year-old son of Ghanaian preacher Bishop Elisha Salifu Amoako, has been remanded by a juvenile court. The accident, which took place on October 12, 2024, resulted in the deaths of two young girls and left several others injured. Elrad was reportedly driving a Jaguar SUV when he collided with a 4×4 Acura vehicle, causing both cars to catch fire. Witnesses and preliminary police reports indicate that the impact was severe, leading to a devastating scene that burned both vehicles beyond recognition.
The court has mandated that Elrad, due to the gravity of the incident and the ongoing investigation, surrender both his Ghanaian and U.S. passports to prevent any possibility of fleeing the country. Additionally, Bishop Salifu Amoako and his wife have been charged for allegedly allowing their underage son to operate a vehicle without a driver’s license. They are accused of “permitting an unlicensed person to drive,” which, according to Ghana’s road safety regulations, holds legal repercussions. The parents, along with another family member involved in the incident, appeared in court and were granted bail of GHS 50,000 each while the legal proceedings continue.
This incident has garnered widespread media attention and stirred public debate about parental responsibility and road safety, especially given the teenager’s age and lack of driving credentials. The court’s directive to confiscate the passports reflects the high-profile nature of the case and the commitment of Ghanaian authorities to ensure accountability. Police officials have promised a thorough investigation, emphasizing their duty to bring justice to the families of the victims.
As the case develops, it underscores the importance of enforcing driving regulations and highlights the need for responsible guardianship when it comes to underage drivers. The community is now watching closely as the court proceedings continue, with the next hearing set for later this month to determine further actions based on investigative findings.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with road safety violations, particularly involving young, inexperienced drivers. The court’s response demonstrates Ghana’s stance on road safety, parental accountability, and justice for the victims and their families.
