A well-known armed robbery syndicate that has been targeting rural banks in various parts of the nation has been taken down by the Ghana Police Service.
The announcement was made on Wednesday, September 24, 2024, at a news conference at the National Police Headquarters in Accra by Dr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP).
The IGP called the successful operation a “major breakthrough” in the Service’s continuous fight against organized armed robbery organizations while speaking to reporters, police personnel, and other dignitaries.
IGP Yohuno claims that for the previous 12 months, the Police Service has noticed an unsettling trend of attacks on financial institutions, especially those in rural areas.
These robberies were executed similarly, which suggested that the gang was well-organized and coordinated.
The IGP said, “This morning, we are delighted to share with you a major breakthrough the Service has made in our fight against violent crimes, specifically armed robbery, after analysing data and conducting surveillance in collaboration with credible informants, we were able to track down the syndicate.”
In towns like Esereso Adagya, Ejisu Achiaakrom, Atonsu-Kyirapatre, Ahwia-Zongo, Aputuogya-Abuontem, Kaase-BOST, Asuofua, Atonsu-Monaco, Pakyi, Obuasi, and Buoho near Kronum, the operation, which encompassed five regions, Ahafo, Western, Central, Eastern, Ashanti, and Ashanti—was conducted.
Ten suspects were taken into custody during the operation, according to Dr. Yohuno, and three more were shot dead during a gunfight with police officers.
The remaining gang members who are now evading capture are the target of a manhunt.
The IGP promised, “We will not stop until we get them arrested.”
The police found a stash of firearms and other goods during the raid, including:
- 14 weapons (AK-47 rifles, pump-action guns, pistols, and a single-barreled gun)
- Ammunition
- Vehicles
- Mobile phones
The Ashanti Regional Police Commander and his intelligence team were commended by the IGP for their crucial contribution to the operation’s success.
In addition, he praised the work of all participating police and recognized the vital role that the people performed.
“I wish to sincerely thank members of the public who volunteered credible information to the police that contributed to this breakthrough.”
“The Service is committed to rewarding credible information that supports our investigations,” Dr. Yohuno stated, urging the people to continue cooperating.
“We will continue to make life uncomfortable for criminal elements in our society. We will continue to pursue you till you are brought to justice,” he warned.
The IGP concluded by restating the police’s dedication to eliminating criminal elements from society.
Source: newsthemegh.com