A tragic incident in Kumasi has reignited national concern over domestic violence following the death of a young entrepreneur, allegedly at the hands of her boyfriend.
Police in the Ashanti Region have arrested 48-year-old businessman Francis Arthur in connection with the death of his girlfriend, Sally Benson, a well-known beautician and business owner.
The incident, which occurred on April 14, 2026, at Ayigya-Maxima, has sent shockwaves through the Kumasi business community, where the deceased was widely admired for her entrepreneurial drive and independence.
According to police reports, Sally Benson had gone to Arthur’s residence in the company of a female friend after receiving information that another woman had visited him. The suspect was not home at the time but reportedly returned later.
Chief Inspector Samuel Agyare disclosed that a confrontation ensued upon his arrival.
“It was during a confrontation between the two that the suspect allegedly assaulted the deceased multiple times,” he stated.
The victim reportedly collapsed during the altercation.
Police say Arthur subsequently transported Benson in her own vehicle to the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology Hospital, where she was pronounced dead on arrival.
Court Proceedings
The suspect has since been arraigned before the Asokore Mampong District Court, presided over by Her Worship Hilda Esther Wryter.
He has been remanded into custody and is expected to reappear on May 8, 2026.
Family members of the deceased were present in court, visibly shaken by the loss.
A Life Cut Short
Sally Benson was the owner of Sally’s Cosmetics Studio and African’s Special Pub in the Asokwa area two thriving businesses that reflected her ambition and resilience as a young woman in business.
Her sudden death has left not only her family but also clients and colleagues in deep mourning.
A Father’s Grief, A Nation’s Question
Her father, Apostle Gabriel Oppong, speaking through tears, recounted the painful account relayed to him.
“Sally got information that another lady had visited him, so she went there. They waited because he wasn’t around. When he finally came and she confronted him, it led to a heated argument,” he said.
Describing the final moments, he added:
“According to the girl, the man beat Sally until she fell. They poured water on her and rushed her to the hospital, but she had already died. Just like that, you’ve killed my daughter.”
Overcome with emotion, he continued:
“She is too young… Her mother is late, and she was the only daughter. How? May justice prevail.”
He is now calling on the state to ensure justice is served.
“We are in a nation governed by law. I believe the law will deal with this case, and that is what I want for my daughter and the family.”
A Wider Concern
The case has once again drawn attention to the growing issue of domestic violence, particularly against women, and the urgent need for stronger protections, awareness, and enforcement of laws.
For many advocates, Sally Benson’s death is not just a personal tragedy—it is a stark reminder of the dangers many women continue to face in intimate relationships.
Meanwhile, the body of the deceased has been deposited at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital mortuary for preservation and autopsy, as investigations continue.
As the nation watches, one question lingers: how many more lives must be lost before love stops turning deadly?