Pastor nabbed for setting ex-girlfriend’s house ablaze

A domestic dispute in Abura Kwaduagya has erupted into scandal after Prophet Mark Dzimah, Founder and Leader of Christ Pentecostal Church, was arrested for allegedly torching the home of his separated partner. 

The Assin South District Police Command confirmed that the pastor was picked up on Friday April 24, to assist with investigations.

Though granted bail, police say the case remains under active inquiry, with DSP Robert Kyeremeh stressing that the suspect has denied the allegation and will face court once investigations conclude. 

The victim, 47‑year‑old seamstress Joyce Akomaning, claims the fire was no accident.

She told reporters that she ended her relationship with the pastor after enduring physical and emotional abuse, and believes he retaliated by setting her single‑room residence ablaze. 

Her anguish has been compounded by the slow pace of justice, lamenting that “little progress has been made,” as she, appealed for swifter police action and public support. 

The blaze, which eyewitnesses say broke out around 9 p.m. on Friday, consumed everything—three sewing machines, television sets, cash, clothing, travel documents, school uniforms, and household items worth thousands of cedis.

Ghana National Fire Service personnel from Abura Dunkwa responded promptly but struggled to access the scene due to the tight layout of the buildings, leaving the property in ruins. 

Now homeless Madam Akomaning and her two children are sheltering with friends, clinging to hope that justice will be served. “I have lost everything. I only ask for fairness and help to rebuild my life,” she underlined. 

The case has stirred outrage in the community, where residents are demanding accountability and swift prosecution to deter similar acts of domestic violence. 

From Kingsley E. Hope, Kumasi