Police operations disrupt robbery gangs, recover firearms nationwide

The Ghana Police Service says recent intelligence-led operations have disrupted suspected robbery activities in parts of the country and led to the arrest of several suspects.

Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohunu said the operations were carried out with support from regional commanders after intelligence teams were deployed to monitor suspected criminal networks.

He disclosed this at a press briefing on Monday, September 7, 2026.

“Following this, I have set up an intelligence team in various areas and worked with the various regional commanders to undertake a number of targeted operations in these areas. I am happy to announce that we have been successful,” he said.

One of the major cases involved the arrest of 32-year-old Abraham Awendok in connection with the disappearance and alleged murder of Dr Jesse Amoah and his wife, Elizabeth Amwa Esi.

The couple were reported missing in April 2016.

According to the police, investigations led to the recovery of their remains, which have been sent to the Police Hospital for preservation and autopsy.

Police said Awendok previously worked for the couple as an “airline boy.”

He allegedly murdered them, took their phones, money and vehicle, and later fled to the United Arab Emirates.

The police said he was declared wanted through an Interpol Red Notice and was deported to Ghana on August 30, 2026.

Investigators say he has admitted to the killings during interrogation.

The couple’s vehicle has also been recovered.

The IGP also gave details of an operation that stopped an alleged robbery attack on bank customers in Greater Accra.

The suspects were said to have been monitoring customers who withdrew money from banks and later using master keys to enter their vehicles.

Police linked the group to a number of incidents, including the alleged theft of GH¢50,000 from a woman at Agbamame in Tema Community 2 on May 17.

On August 13, police disrupted a planned operation at Labone after monitoring suspects around some banks.

Two suspects were shot during the operation, one escaped, and another was arrested.

A search of a Toyota Highlander allegedly used by the group led to the recovery of a pistol and 13 vehicle registration plates.

One suspect, Augustine Okechukwu Mazi, 49, has since been remanded in custody.

In the Western Region, police arrested five suspects believed to be part of a gang linked to attacks on gold dealer shops, mining sites and communities.

The affected areas include Wasa Akropong, Diaso, Dome, Abufo Camp and Demaso.

Police said one other suspect died during the operation.

Three AK-47 rifles, five magazines, 357 rounds of AK-47 ammunition and two vehicles were recovered.

The Northern Region also recorded arrests in connection with alleged armed robberies at Bupe, Tamale and Mion.

Police said three suspects were arrested and linked to the robbery and murder of a mobile money vendor at Fufusu, near Damango Junction.

The Service also reported the death of Alaji Moro Beliko, who was described as the alleged mastermind behind the robbery of two mobile money vendors at the Bupe Cartel Market on June 29.

The victims were allegedly robbed of GH¢130,000.

In another set of operations carried out between June and July, police arrested five suspects and recovered eight AK-47 assault rifles, an SMG rifle and two foreign pistols.

Those suspects have been remanded in custody.

Their case has been adjourned to Tuesday, September 8.

Police say efforts are continuing to arrest other persons believed to be connected to the various cases.

Mr Yohunu commended the officers who took part in the operations and thanked members of the public for providing useful intelligence.

He also credited government support, including the provision of armoured vehicles, for helping the police respond more effectively to violent crime.

“The provision of armoured vehicles, especially the pickups, has been instrumental in our successes,” he said.