In an effort to enhance public safety and address the pressing issue of highway robberies, the Ashanti South Police Command has reaffirmed its commitment to reducing such crimes to the barest minimum. Speaking at a press briefing in Bekwai yesterday, the Regional Commander, DCOP Joseph Hammond Nyaabah, provided updates on a recent operation that has yielded significant results in the fight against highway robbery across multiple regions.
A Coordinated Operation Across Regions
The operation, which spanned the Ashanti, Northern, and Upper East Regions, led to the arrest of two suspects, the recovery of concealed weapons, and the exposure of a broader robbery network responsible for numerous attacks. The suspects apprehended during this operation were identified as Sumaila Munkaila, also known as Guda, and Umaro Musah.
According to DCOP Nyaabah, intelligence gathered by the police indicated that Sumaila Munkaila, a wanted individual linked to multiple roadblock robberies, was hiding in Tamale in the Northern Region. Acting on this intelligence, law enforcement successfully apprehended Munkaila at Vitin in Tamale. During interrogation, he confessed to his involvement in a series of robberies, including an attack on the convoy of His Excellency Ditundini Adiali Ayagitam, the Chiana-Pio, on July 20, 2025.
Arrests and Retrieval of Weapons
Following Munkaila’s confession, he led police officers to Savelugu, where his accomplice, Umaro Musah, was arrested. Both suspects disclosed that their weapons had been buried in a bush near Yizesi in the Upper East Region after a robbery on the Yizesi-Fumbusi stretch. Acting swiftly on this information, the police escorted the suspects to the location for retrieval.
During the search for the concealed weapons, unidentified individuals opened fire on the police team from within the bush. In the ensuing exchange of gunfire, both suspects attempted to flee but were shot by police officers. Tragically, a police officer was also injured during the confrontation.
The search at Yizesi yielded significant findings, including one AK47 assault rifle with 28 rounds of ammunition, one CZ805 assault rifle loaded with 14 rounds of ammunition, and one single-barrel gun. These weapons are believed to have been used in various robbery operations.
Tragic Outcomes and Next Steps
The injured suspects and police officer were immediately transported to the Tamale Government Hospital for medical attention. Unfortunately, both suspects succumbed to their injuries and were pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. Their bodies have since been transferred to Bekwai Hospital for preservation and autopsy.
DCOP Nyaabah reiterated the police’s unwavering commitment to combating criminal activities and ensuring public safety. He assured residents that efforts are ongoing to dismantle criminal networks and bring perpetrators of such heinous crimes to justice.
A Step Forward in Public Safety
This recent operation underscores the dedication of law enforcement agencies in Ghana to tackling crime and ensuring the safety of citizens. While challenges persist, the proactive measures taken by the Ashanti South Police Command demonstrate a clear resolve to protect communities and deter criminal activities.
As investigations continue into this broader robbery network, the public is encouraged to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement by providing any information that may assist in their efforts. Together, such collaborative efforts can create safer roads and communities for all.
