In a recent development in Accra, an ex-convict identified as Vincent Gbetorglo has been remanded into police custody by an Accra Circuit Court for his alleged involvement in the robbery of a taxi driver. The incident, which reportedly occurred on January 1, 2025, at Haatso, has raised concerns about public safety and the resurgence of criminal activities involving repeat offenders.
Details of the Incident
Gbetorglo, a barber by profession and a Togolese national, is accused of committing the crime alongside two accomplices, Peter Akakpo (alias Dompe) and another individual identified only as Ali, both of whom are currently at large. According to the prosecution, the trio allegedly snatched a Toyota Corolla taxi cab with registration number GM 292-16, along with other valuables belonging to the driver.
The victim, Martin Obeng, a taxi driver residing in North Legon, was reportedly robbed of his driver’s license, Ghana Card, vehicle documents, a Samsung Galaxy A05 smartphone, an MTN SIM card loaded with GHC13,000, and GHC700 in cash. The accused persons tied Mr. Obeng from behind against the driver’s seat to prevent resistance before fleeing with the vehicle and his possessions.
Court Proceedings
Appearing before the court presided over by Mrs. Evelyn Asamoah, a High Court judge sitting with additional responsibility as a Circuit Court judge, Gbetorglo pleaded not guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit crime and robbery. He is scheduled to reappear in court on August 21, 2025.
Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Emmanuel Nyamekye provided details of the incident during the court proceedings. He revealed that on the night of January 1, 2025, Gbetorglo and his accomplices hired Mr. Obeng’s taxi from Madina Zongo Junction to Haatso. Upon reaching a section of the road near ICGC Chapel, one of the accomplices requested to alight. At this point, Gbetorglo allegedly restrained the driver while his accomplices covered his face with his shirt and tied him up. The victim was subsequently moved to the back seat as Gbetorglo took control of the vehicle and drove to Westland, where they abandoned him before fleeing with the stolen items.
Arrest and Evidence
Months after the incident, police intelligence led to Gbetorglo’s arrest on July 30, 2025, at the Accra Mall. A search conducted on him uncovered key evidence linking him to the crime. Among the items retrieved were Mr. Obeng’s Samsung Galaxy phone and two MTN SIM cards—one registered in Akakpo’s name but being used by Gbetorglo and another registered under Gbetorglo’s name.
Further investigations at Gbetorglo’s Kasoa Domeabra residence revealed additional items, including another Samsung Galaxy A05 smartphone and two keypad phones. One of these phones contained a SIM card registered under a different number.
Background and Ongoing Investigations
DSP Nyamekye disclosed that Gbetorglo is an ex-convict who was sentenced to 40 years in prison in 2011 by Cocoa Affairs Court One but was released in 2023 following a successful appeal. The police are actively pursuing efforts to apprehend his two alleged accomplices, Akakpo and Ali.
This case highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in addressing repeat offenders and ensuring justice for victims. As investigations continue, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and robust security measures to protect citizens from criminal activities.
The court proceedings are expected to shed further light on the case as Gbetorglo reappears on August 21, 2025. The public awaits justice for Mr. Obeng and hopes for swift action in apprehending the remaining suspects.
-GNA
Curated by Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
