Two Suspected Robbers Killed After Ambush on Police During Weapons Retrieval Operation

Two suspected armed robbers have been shot dead following a gun battle with police during an operation to retrieve hidden weapons at Yizesi near Fumbisi in the Upper East Region.

According to a police report, the suspects—Sumaila Munkaila and Umaro Musah—had earlier led officers to the location where the weapons were buried. However, while the search was underway, unknown gunmen reportedly opened fire from nearby bushes.

Shootout during operation

Police say the suspects attempted to escape amid the chaos as officers returned fire in self-defence. Both men sustained gunshot wounds during the exchange and were later pronounced dead on arrival at the Tamale Government Hospital.

One police officer also sustained minor injuries and is receiving treatment.

Weapons cache uncovered

Despite the ambush, officers proceeded with the search and recovered a cache of weapons buried underground. These included assault rifles, ammunition, and locally made firearms concealed in sacks.

Police also retrieved clothing believed to have been used by the suspects during robbery operations.

Intelligence-led arrests

The operation followed intelligence gathered by the Ghana Police Service, which identified Munkaila—also known as “Guda”—as a key suspect in a series of highway robberies, particularly along routes in the Ashanti and Northern regions.

He was arrested in Tamale and reportedly confessed to multiple crimes, including attacks on major roads. He later led police to arrest Musah in Savelugu.

Both suspects subsequently guided officers to the Yizesi site, where they claimed the weapons used in the robberies had been hidden.

Ongoing investigations

Police say investigations are continuing, with efforts underway to track down other accomplices believed to have fled during the shootout.

Authorities have assured the public of their commitment to tackling armed robbery and ensuring the safety of communities across the country.