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| Webkid Case Update: Court Remands Shatta Wale Fan as Cyberbullying Charges Rise to Six |
The arrest of popular X blogger Webkid Afrika has become Ghana’s most high-profile test of online speech laws in 2026. What started as social media posts about Stonebwoy’s family has escalated into six criminal charges, a denied bail application, and warnings of street protests from Shatta Wale. Here’s the full update on the case, the charges under Act 1038, and what happens next.
1. How the Arrest Happened
Webkid Afrika, real name Abdul Gafaru Sadi, was picked up on May 7, 2026, by two unknown men after helping his father with business. Police took him to Osu Police Station and later to Police Headquarters to write a statement without his lawyers present.
His lawyer says the CID officer initially couldn’t state the reason for arrest and only presented a charge sheet in court. The complainant listed: Livingstone Etse Satekla, known as Stonebwoy.
2. The Charges: From 4 to 6 Counts
Webkid was first hit with 4 charges: publication of false news against Stonebwoy, offensive conduct, and actions contributing to the breach of peace. In his latest court appearance, 2 new charges were added*, bringing the total to 6.
Prosecutors allege Webkid was contracted by Stonebwoy’s former social media manager Casey Kobia to post derogatory content about Stonebwoy’s family. Specific posts cited include:
- “Married this thing but had the nerve to call Shatta Wale’s wife prostitute”
- “Daddy once took advantage of Abena Korkor!!! Stonebwoy is evil”
3. Court Proceedings & Bail Denied
Webkid first appeared in court on May 11, 2026 — 4 days after arrest. His lawyer Akorful argued the 48-hour rule was breached.
Bail was denied. The court remanded him for 2 more weeks. He has now been in custody close to one month. Next court date: June 10, 2026.
His lawyer also accused the Attorney General of using procedure to “punish him even without the opportunity to sit in his defence”.
GN Bank branch with yellow facade and maroon trim displaying "The People's Bank" sign after licence restoration ruling in May 2026.
4. The Legal Basis: Act 1038 & Act 29
The charges fall under two key laws:
Cyber Security Act, 2020 (Act 1038):
- Sec 76: Intentionally publishing false info likely to cause fear, panic, or endanger public safety. Penalty: Up to 5 years or fine.
- Sec 78: Intentionally publishing material that can incite violence.
Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29):
- Sec 208: Publication of false news.
- Sec 207: Offensive conduct conducive to breaches of peace.
5. Reactions: Stonebwoy Denials vs Shatta Wale Warning
Stonebwoy’s PR, Vida Adutwumwaa, insisted at the 2026 TGMAs on May 9 that “it is not in Stonebwoy’s power to cause the arrest of anybody”. She suggested Webkid’s broader posts against the Asantehene and others led to his arrest.
However, Webkid’s lawyer confirmed Stonebwoy’s name is on the charge sheet as complainant.
Shatta Wale responded on X: “If dem no release Webkid, we go enter street erh
