Five Arrested Over Attacks on Gold Dealers in Ashanti and Western Regions

The Ghana Police Service has arrested five suspected members of an armed robbery gang allegedly targeting gold dealers, mining operations and communities in parts of the Ashanti and Western Regions.

The arrests were made during a series of intelligence-led operations conducted between August and September 4, 2026.

Police also reported that another suspect, identified as 40-year-old Seidu Salifu, died during the operations.

Three AK-47 rifles, five magazines, 357 rounds of ammunition and two vehicles believed to be linked to the gang’s activities were recovered.

The suspects are alleged to have operated in areas including Wassa Akropong, Diaso, Dome, Abofour Camp and Manso.

Those arrested have been identified as 33-year-old Clinton Mawuli, Richmond Mensah alias Master Abey, Daniel Sarfo alias Abedi, Prince Duker and another suspect.

According to the Police, Salifu was linked to earlier robbery incidents around Sakam near Offinso and was already standing trial at the Nsuta Circuit Court over the alleged robbery of gold bullion at Offinso Abofour in July 2025.

In a related operation on August 21, the Western Regional Police Command arrested four additional suspects over the alleged robbery and murder of 40-year-old gold buyer Seth Kobina at Agona Fie near Agona Nkwanta.

The suspects are Christopher Seyiri alias “Cross and Die”, 47; Bashiru Ibrahim, 20; Thomas Odoom alias “Wale”, 30; and Isaac Quayeson alias “Last Burial”, who was arrested at Denkyira Kwaboso in the Western North Region.

Police said two locally manufactured pistols, five live BB cartridges, a metal bar and two cutlasses were recovered during the operation.

The Police Service has since deployed specialised teams to affected communities to prevent further attacks, strengthen security and restore public confidence as investigations continue.