The Wa High Court has issued a bench warrant for the immediate re-arrest of Abdul Halim Yahaya , also known as Adaalee, a key accused in the ongoing murder trial of the late Jontong Naa Murtala Tendaana
The warrant was issued today during proceedings at the Wa High Court, after Yahaya failed to appear for the scheduled hearing. Yahaya had previously been granted bail in December 2025 on health-related grounds, with stringent conditions including a GH¢500,000 bail bond, two sureties, landed property as additional surety, and mandatory twice-weekly reporting to the police.
Yahaya, alongside co-accused Isaac Dapilah Anaatakang, faces murder charges in connection with the April 2024 killing of Jontong Naa Murtala Tendaana, who was reportedly found with his throat slit in his room at Suuriyiri, a suburb of Wa. The case has drawn significant public attention in the Upper West Region, marked by earlier procedural setbacks.
In May 2025, the Wa High Court struck out the charges against both accused due to the prosecution’s failure to produce critical fingerprint evidence, leading to their rearrest and the resumption of proceedings.
Court officials directed police and prison authorities to execute the bench warrant swiftly and produce Yahaya before the court at the earliest opportunity. No specific reasons for his non-appearance were detailed in open court today, though the development has heightened tensions surrounding the long-running trial.
The case continues to attract close scrutiny from the family of the deceased, community leaders, and local media, with calls for swift justice persisting. The next hearing date is yet to be confirmed pending Yahaya’s production in court.
Authorities have urged the public to assist if Yahaya is sighted, as efforts to locate him intensify. Further updates are expected as the warrant is actioned.
By Adil Fuseini
