Accra: An Accra High Court has imposed a fine of GHC1,200 on Harry Don Atipo, a juror who failed to appear for a session in the Kasoa Teenagers Ritual Murder case, resulting in a delay in proceedings. According to Ghana News Agency, the court presided over by Justice Lydia Osei Marfo, a Court of Appeal Judge with additional High Court responsibilities, expressed frustration as the case was scheduled for summing up and judgment. The absence of Atipo forced the court to adjourn the matter to Thursday, October 24, 2024. The juror is required to pay the fine before the rescheduled date. On the day of the incident, when the matter was called, the jury foreman reported Atipo's absence, noting that he was out of the jurisdiction but had committed to returning by the next court date. Justice Marfo highlighted that Atipo had previously assured his presence at today's session. "So, he has succeeded in holding all of us to ransom, people take everybody for granted in this country. Mr. Atipo did not give any excuse for his absence," stated the court. Further complications arose when Mr. Samuel Atuah, the defense counsel for one of the accused, requested the court to reconsider the fine, arguing it might hinder Atipo's future attendance and impact the ongoing trial. Justice Marfo responded firmly, emphasizing her commitment to enforcing the law and noting previous warnings issued to jurors regarding absenteeism. The accused in the case, an 18-year-old and his 15-year-old accomplice, are charged with the murder of 10-year-old Ishmael Abdalla in Kasoa, allegedly as part of a ritual. Both face charges of conspiracy and murder. Meanwhile, Atipo's fellow jurors chose to forfeit their sitting and transport allowances in light of the day's events.