Ghana Police dismantle notorious gang behind rural bank robberies

Ghana Police dismantle notorious gang behind rural bank robberies

Ghana’s Police Service has successfully dismantled a criminal gang believed to be behind a string of armed robberies targeting rural banks across multiple regions in the country.

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr Christian Tetteh Yohonu, addressing journalists in Accra, confirmed that ten suspects have been arrested, while three others were shot dead during a shootout with officers. A manhunt is currently underway to apprehend the remaining members of the gang who are still on the run.

“Over the past year, we recorded several robberies targeting financial institutions, particularly rural banks,” Dr Yohonu said.

“After analysing these cases, we noticed a recurring pattern. This prompted us to launch a targeted, intelligence-led operation across several regions.”

The operation was conducted in towns across the Ahafo, Western, Central, Eastern and Ashanti regions. Specific areas mentioned include Esereso Adagya, Ejisu Achiaakrom, Atonsu-Kyirapatre, Ahwia-Zongo, Kaase-BOST, Obuasi, and Buoho near Kronum.

Police say the operation was carried out with the help of credible informants, data analysis, and weeks of surveillance. The outcome, according to the IGP, represents a major breakthrough in the fight against organised crime in the country.

Weapons Recovered

During the raids, police recovered 14 firearms including AK-47 rifles, pump-action shotguns, pistols, a single-barrel gun, and large quantities of ammunition. Several vehicles, mobile phones, and other equipment suspected to have been used in the robberies were also seized.

The Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) is expected to provide further details on the suspects and the evidence gathered.

Public Support Recognised

The IGP commended the Ashanti Regional Police Commander and his intelligence team for their role in coordinating the operation. He also expressed appreciation to members of the public who volunteered critical information that led to the arrests.

“We want to assure the public that we will not rest until all remaining suspects are brought to justice,” Dr Yohonu said.

“Let us continue to work together. The police remain committed to rewarding credible information that aids our investigations.”

Warning to Criminals

In a firm warning to criminals, the IGP stated that the Ghana Police Service will continue to make life difficult for criminal elements and will relentlessly pursue them wherever they are hiding