Upper East Region: Police Arrest 80 Suspects in Major Anti-Crime Operation

The Upper East Regional Police Command, in collaboration with the Inspector-General of Police’s Special Operations Team, has arrested 80 suspects in a coordinated intelligence-led crackdown on criminal activities across the region.

The operation, which took place between May 25 and June 3, 2026, targeted identified crime hotspots in Zuarungu, Bolgatanga, Tongo, Bongo, and parts of the Nabdam District.

According to a police statement, 12 suspects—including eight men and four women—were arrested at Zuarungu. Among the female suspects were three Nigerians and one Ghanaian.

In Bongo, officers apprehended 34 suspects, while another 14 were arrested during operations in Pelungu, Kongo, and Nangodi within the Nabdam District.

A further 20 suspects were picked up in Bolgatanga, bringing the total number of arrests to 80.

Preliminary investigations suggest the suspects were involved in narcotics peddling, drug use, and other criminal activities.

During the operation in Tongo, police retrieved a motorcycle, assorted foreign cigarettes, condoms, and substances suspected to be Indian hemp.

In Bongo, officers also recovered three rounds of 5.56×45mm NATO ammunition and two motorbikes.

In the Nabdam District, police found parcels of suspected narcotics, alcoholic drinks believed to contain drugs, an unregistered motorbike, foreign cigarettes, and parts of a casino jackpot machine.

Additional exhibits, including motorbikes and suspected Indian hemp, were also retrieved in Bolgatanga.

The police say all suspects are currently in custody and will be put before court for prosecution.