The Ashanti South Regional Police Command has dismantled a suspected armed robbery gang operating along the Obuasi–Dunkwa Highway following intelligence-led operations conducted on March 10 and 11, 2026.
The operation resulted in a gun battle between police and the suspects, leading to the death of two alleged robbers, the seizure of firearms and ammunition, and the arrest of several accomplices. Investigations have also uncovered a broader illegal arms supply network believed to be operating in Asawase.
According to police, credible intelligence received on March 10 indicated that a group of armed men had assembled in a bush near the highway, preparing to carry out a robbery attack. Officers were immediately dispatched to the area.
Upon arrival, the police encountered four armed suspects. The suspects reportedly opened fire and attempted to flee, prompting officers to return fire. Two of the suspects were fatally wounded, while the remaining two managed to escape.
Items recovered from the scene included:
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One AK-47 assault rifle with 28 rounds of 7.62x39mm ammunition
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One pump-action gun loaded with five BB cartridges
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Eight additional rounds of 7.62x39mm ammunition
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One spent BB cartridge
The deceased suspects were identified as David Aheto, 42, from Sogakope and resident in Asin Fosu, and Illiasu Bawa, 32, from Banda Nkwanta. Both were pronounced dead on arrival at the Bekwai Municipal Hospital.
Police investigations have linked the suspects to several robbery incidents in Obuasi, Dunkwa-On-Offin, Wasa Akropong and Asin Fosu.
Further intelligence identified Samuel Agyei, alias Africa, and other individuals currently on remand at Wasa Akropong as members of the robbery network.
Police also alleged that Alhaji Abdalah, based in Asawase in Kumasi, sold the AK-47 rifle recovered from the scene to the gang for GH¢45,000. He is further suspected of supplying a G3 rifle and a pistol to Samuel Agyei.
A follow-up operation on March 11 led to the arrest of Aminu Iddrisu, alias 0244, who reportedly guided police to another AK-47 rifle and a Bruni pistol hidden in a sheep pen at Moshie Zongo.
Another suspect, Daniel Debrah, 24, was also arrested. A search conducted during the operation uncovered a red Toyota Corolla believed to have been acquired with proceeds from the gang’s robbery activities.
Police said suspects Abdalah Alhassan, Jemini Usman alias Babamu, Aminu Iddrisu alias 0244, and Daniel Debrah remain in custody assisting with investigations.
Efforts are ongoing to arrest Mallam Aminu and other gang members still on the run, while authorities continue efforts to recover additional firearms linked to the group.
The Ashanti South Regional Police Command reiterated its zero-tolerance stance against armed robbery and illegal firearm trafficking, assuring the public that all persons involved will face the full force of the law.