Serial Killer Confesses to 23 Murders, Receives Life Sentence

The High Court in Wa has sentenced Shariff Abdulai, also known as ‘Cristos’, to life imprisonment for the murder of 23 people across multiple regions of Ghana.

The Ghana Police Service confirmed the verdict in a statement released Wednesday. Abdulai admitted in court to killing 23 individuals, including Issah Yahaya, after pleading guilty to all charges.

The police statement, signed by Upper West Regional Police Commander DCOP Francis Yiribaare, detailed that Abdulai killed 16 victims in Wa, five in Bole, and one each in Banda Nkwanta and Bamboi.

Abdulai was arrested on October 6, 2025, following a series of intelligence-led operations. Initially brought before a District Magistrate Court, his case was later committed to the High Court, where he was formally arraigned on March 4, 2026.

Represented by legal counsel, Abdulai entered a straightforward guilty plea. Justice Osei-Wusu Antwi, presiding over the case, sentenced him to life imprisonment with hard labour. He will serve his sentence at Nsawam Medium Security Prison.

The police reiterated their commitment to law enforcement and public safety, emphasizing ongoing efforts to protect citizens across the country.