In a significant development, law enforcement authorities in Ghana have apprehended a suspected serial killer believed to be responsible for the gruesome murders of fifteen individuals between 2021 and 2025 in the Wa municipality. The arrest marks a major milestone in the efforts to solve a series of chilling crimes that left the community in fear and disbelief.
The suspect, Sheriff Abdulai, 30, also known by aliases Sani Mohammed and Critos, is an ex-convict and cobbler. Abdulai was arrested alongside an accomplice following the murder of Issah Yahaya, a 55-year-old watchman, on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at Wa-Dobile. The arrest was the culmination of a meticulous investigation spearheaded by the Ghana Police Service.
Confession and Gruesome Revelations
According to reliable sources within the Police Headquarters, Abdulai allegedly confessed to the murders during interrogation. The suspect reportedly admitted to targeting watchmen and individuals with mental health challenges. In a shocking revelation, he disclosed that after killing his victims, he removed vital organs such as the heart, tongue, and lungs, which he roasted and consumed at the crime scenes.
The body of Yahaya was discovered around 6:30 PM on September 21, 2025, at a motor mechanic’s shop near the Wa New Market. This incident prompted swift action from the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, who deployed a specialized team of detectives from the Police Anti-Armed Robbery Unit and the Police Intelligence Directorate (PID) to assist the local command in unraveling the mystery behind the serial killings.
Investigative Breakthrough
The combined efforts of local police and specialized detectives bore fruit on October 3, 2025, when suspect Mahamuda Lamin, 25, was arrested in connection with Yahaya’s stolen mobile phone. During questioning, Lamin implicated Abdulai as the individual who had stolen the phone. This crucial lead led to Abdulai’s arrest on October 6, 2025, with support from local opinion leaders.
During his interrogation, Abdulai openly confessed to committing four murders in 2021 at locations including Kpaguri, Loho, Kambale, and Mangu area between Kaleo and Loh. He further admitted to eleven additional murders in 2022, detailing locations such as Kulpong-Yeyiri road, High Ranking School on the Napogbakole Extension, Goripie near Bulenga, TI Ahmadiya School, Kpaguri near Chokor Sawmill, Nakore Petrosol, and VRA Quarters.
The modus operandi of these heinous crimes involved either strangling victims to death or inflicting fatal head injuries using concrete blocks.
Community Support and Police Leadership
The Upper West Regional Police Commander, ACP Francis Yiribarie, commended the public for their cooperation and timely provision of information that contributed to this breakthrough. Speaking at a press conference in Wa, ACP Yiribarie also praised IGP Christian Tetteh Yohuno for his leadership and strategic directives that guided the investigative team.
"I wish to assure residents that the Police remain resolute in our commitment to rid our society of criminal elements and ensure justice for families affected by these crimes," ACP Yiribarie emphasized.
Possible Links to Previous Murders in Ashaiman
Detectives are now investigating whether the Wa incidents have any connection to similar murders reported in Ashaiman in September 2019. In that case, three individuals—two watchmen and another victim—were killed in one night. Their throats were slit, tongues removed, and fires were set at the scenes. Abdulai’s confession about consuming roasted organs has raised questions about potential links between these two series of crimes.
Moving Forward
The arrest of Sheriff Abdulai represents a significant step towards justice for the victims and their families. While investigations continue to uncover any additional connections or accomplices, this case underscores the importance of community cooperation and relentless police work in addressing violent crimes.
The Ghana Police Service remains steadfast in its mission to protect citizens and ensure that perpetrators of such heinous acts are brought to justice. As the investigation progresses, residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities.
