The Ashanti Regional Police Command has launched a major crackdown on violent robbery gangs in the region, resulting in the arrest of nine suspects and the death of one individual during a shootout with police.
The operation, conducted by the Regional Intelligence Department in collaboration with the KNUST Police District, targeted a group linked to a series of residential robberies in various parts of Kumasi.
The Regional Police Commander, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCoP) Emmanuel Teye-Cudjoe, disclosed the details during a media briefing on the recent operation.
The operation followed intelligence reports linking a group of individuals to a series of violent residential robberies in Abuakwa, Tanoso, Apatrapa, Denchemuoso, and Apiadu.
According to DCoP Teye-Cudjoe, the police launched a major operation last Friday, June 27, at around 11:30 a.m., leading to the arrest of 10 suspects. One of the suspects, Bernard Owusu Ansah, also known as “Hot Boy”, sustained gunshot wounds and is currently receiving treatment at KATH under police guard.
“During the operation, one suspect sustained gunshot wounds during an exchange of fire with police officers and was later pronounced dead,” the commander said.
The suspects currently in custody include Kwadwo Kyei Baffuor, 39; Joseph Oppong alias Joe, 30; Bernard Owusu Ansah alias Hot Boy, 27; Kwadwo Konadu, 28; James Asare Boateng, 26; Emmanuel Asiedu, 27; and Maxwell Gyimah, 30.
Two others, Kelvin Adomako, alias Chemical, 29, and Daniel Dwumor, 46, were later arrested at Ejisu-Hwereso and Bantama, respectively.
DCoP Teye-Cudjoe urged the public to collaborate with the police by providing credible information to help combat crime in the region.
A number of items were retrieved from the suspects’ hideout, including three vehicles, multiple firearms such as pistols, pump-action and double-barrel guns, some loaded with live ammunition, as well as laptop computers, mobile phones, various identity cards, wristwatches, an internet router, and face masks.
“The suspects are in lawful custody and will be arraigned before the court in the coming days,” the commander assured.
He added that intensive efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining suspect, Yahaya Nuhu who is the run.