In recent weeks, the Ghana Police Service has made remarkable strides in its ongoing mopping-up operations aimed at dislodging criminal elements from their hideouts and curbing organized crime across the country. Through strategic intelligence-led efforts, the police have achieved significant breakthroughs in combating armed robbery, drug trafficking, and other criminal activities.
Recovery of Stolen Police Rifle and Arrest of Suspects Linked to Policeman’s Murder
One of the notable achievements was the recovery of a service AK47 assault rifle stolen from Sergeant Samuel Atsitsogbe during an armed attack on January 12, 2025. This breakthrough came after a series of coordinated operations across multiple regions. The rifle was recovered during a raid on suspected criminals along the Dormaa-Gonokrom highway.
In addition, the police successfully apprehended Simon Apusiga, alias Ananga, a 42-year-old suspect linked to the murder of Constable Kwarko Stephen in Zebilla, Upper East Region, on February 8, 2026. Advanced call location analysis placed Apusiga at the scene of the crime during the incident. Upon interrogation, he disclosed that another individual, Apebaa (alias True Boy), informed him about the shooting. This arrest represents a critical step in solving the case and delivering justice for the slain officer.
Foiling Highway Robbery and Exposing Weapons Cache
In the Bono Region, intelligence gathered by the Police Intelligence Directorate (PID) revealed plans by a gang to rob a businesswoman traveling along the Dormaa-Gonokrom highway. Acting swiftly, armed personnel intercepted the gang's operation in the early hours of February 12, 2026. A shootout ensued, leading to the death of one suspect believed to be of Fulani origin.
The subsequent search of the area uncovered an arsenal of weapons concealed in a sack. Items retrieved included two Baikal single-barrel guns, a pump-action gun, an AK47 rifle, a Beretta pistol loaded with ammunition, dozens of BB cartridges, a dagger, a black mask, and talismans. These discoveries highlight the scale of violence planned by the robbers and underscore the importance of proactive intelligence-led policing.
Interception of Drug Trafficking Operations
Efforts to combat drug trafficking yielded significant results when police intercepted a benz container truck carrying 1,482 compressed parcels of substances suspected to be Indian hemp (locally referred to as "Volta cocaine"). The truck was stopped at Bodada in the Oti Region on February 15, 2026. Despite attempts by the driver, Amrado Justice Nelson, to bribe police officers with GH₵80,000, law enforcement personnel remained resolute and rejected the offer.
Similarly, in Tema Region, police intercepted a tipper truck loaded with fertilizer sacks containing suspected narcotics. The suspects fled upon interception but later attempted to bribe officers with GH₵150,000 to release the vehicle and its contents. The police feigned interest in the offer and subsequently arrested Victor Asigbey and his accomplice Peter Asigbey during their attempt to deliver the bribe.
Bolgatanga Operations: Arresting Key Suspects in Police Attacks
On February 17, 2026, police personnel conducted a joint operation in Bolgatanga that led to the arrest of Abdul-Aziz Iddrisu (alias Baaluuse), a key suspect involved in an attack on a police barrier at Kariminga. The attack resulted in the death of Constable Seth Oppong Damoah and injuries to two other officers. Baaluuse is believed to be an active participant in the ongoing Bawku conflict and has been identified as part of a network importing weapons to fuel violence in the region.
A search conducted on Baaluuse revealed three mobile phones linked to a WhatsApp group called "Trusted Friend," which reportedly coordinates activities related to the conflict. Intelligence also uncovered videos and audio messages implicating him in arms trafficking and factional violence.
Bono Region: Preventing Bloodshed Through Intelligence-Led Operations
Residents of Bono Region are breathing a sigh of relief following police efforts to thwart a potentially bloody robbery attack on traders traveling along the Dormaa-Gonokrom highway. The operation not only saved lives but also exposed concealed weapons intended for use in criminal activities. Deputy Bono Regional Police Commander DCOP Joshua Coppson described this success as a major breakthrough in combating organized crime.
At a press briefing in Sunyani, DCOP Coppson emphasized the importance of community support in ensuring public safety. “Security is a shared responsibility. We urge residents to provide credible information to help us rid the region of criminal elements,” he stated.
A Nationwide Commitment to Public Safety
The recent successes underscore the Ghana Police Service's commitment to maintaining law and order across the country. Under the leadership of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, who recently launched a "morale revolution," officers have demonstrated unwavering dedication to their duties despite facing life-threatening situations.
The IGP’s statement that "bribing a policeman has now become a dangerous enterprise" reflects the enhanced integrity and professionalism within the force. It is evident that these efforts are yielding results, as criminals are increasingly being held accountable for their actions.
As operations continue across Ghana, citizens are encouraged to remain vigilant and collaborate with law enforcement agencies by reporting suspicious activities. Together, these efforts will ensure safer communities for all.
-By Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
