The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has released an update on the tragic murder of final-year Biological Sciences student, Joana Deladem Yabani, confirming the arrest of a suspect believed to be the mastermind behind the crime.

According to the university’s statement, the suspect, a fellow student who lived in the same hostel as the victim, was apprehended by the Regional Police.

The arrest came after a thorough review of CCTV footage, which provided crucial evidence. Authorities also discovered clothing worn during the crime in the suspect’s possession, which has now been secured as evidence.

In response to the tragedy, KNUST, working alongside the Regional Police Command and the IGP, has significantly increased security across the campus.

The new measures include:

1. Deployment of over 50 police officers across the university
2. Five mobile police patrol teams from the Anti-Robbery Squad

3. 34 SWAT officers assigned to key areas in the Ashanti Region
    Additional security personnel stationed at strategic locations

The university noted that 80 per cent of the campus is already under CCTV surveillance, including the crime scene. Plans are underway to achieve full CCTV coverage to enhance safety.

1. Walk in pairs, particularly after dark
2. Avoid isolated and poorly lit areas
3. Refrain from carrying laptops and valuables at night
4. Report any suspicious activities immediately

“We are stepping up our efforts to maintain security on campus. Our officers will be conducting round-the-clock patrols and monitoring activities,” DCOP Cudjoe added.

It said the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, earlier spoke with the Vice-Chancellor via phone call, assuring her of safety on campus. The Vice-Chancellor, Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, expressed her appreciation to the IGP for his support and assurances.