Sunyani East: Police arrest prophetess over alleged assault, confinement of 16-year-old boy

A 16-year-old boy allegedly locked up for days inside a room at a church premises in Asufufu has been rescued by police in the Sunyani East Municipality.

The Bono Regional Police Command says the incident has led to the arrest of 39-year-old prophetess Rebecca Kumi, founder of Overcomers Church.

Police moved to the church on June 23, 2026, after receiving a distress call about the alleged assault and confinement of the teenager.

When officers arrived, they first encountered the suspect’s mother, who reportedly denied knowledge of the matter.

However, a search of the premises led police to a locked room where the boy was found.

According to the police, the victim was wearing red shorts and had been covered with a cloth.

He was also seen with visible injuries, including marks on his right shoulder and swelling with dark discoloration around both eyes.

Preliminary police findings suggest that the boy had allegedly been beaten with a stick and slapped in the face.

He is also said to have been confined in the room for about five days.

Police say the incident followed accusations that the teenager had stolen money from the suspect.

The boy, however, denied the allegation.

He told investigators that he had been living with the prophetess since 2024.

According to him, the matter began on June 17, 2026, when he was questioned over missing money, US dollars and a Samsung mobile phone.

The victim has since been taken to the Sunyani Municipal Hospital, where he is receiving treatment.

Police say the suspect admitted to the offence during interrogation in the presence of her lawyer.

She is expected to be put before court as investigations continue.

The Bono Regional Police Command has commended the Good Samaritan who helped alert authorities to the incident.

It also urged the public to continue providing credible information to assist police in fighting crime and protecting vulnerable persons.