In a recent operation in the Upper East Region of Ghana, the police successfully recovered a cache of weapons buried underground but not without a dramatic turn of events that resulted in the deaths of two suspected armed robbers. The incident occurred at Yizesi, near Fumbisi, following a shootout involving unidentified gunmen.
Background of the Operation
The operation began with the arrest of two suspects, Sumaila Munkaila, alias Guda, and Umaro Musah, who were believed to be part of a notorious gang linked to a series of roadblock robberies. These robberies included incidents along the Obuasi and Manso–Nyinahin stretch in the Ashanti Region and other locations such as the Buipe–Tamale stretch and the Yizesi–Fumbisi road.
Acting on intelligence, the Ashanti South Regional Police Command located and apprehended Sumaila Munkaila in Tamale on April 25, 2026. During interrogation, Munkaila admitted to his involvement in multiple robberies and provided information implicating his accomplices. This led to the arrest of Umaro Musah later that evening in Savelugu.
Both suspects disclosed that their weapons were hidden underground in a bush near Yizesi, claiming they had buried them after a robbery in the area. Based on this information, a police team proceeded to the site on April 26, 2026, to retrieve the concealed arms.
The Incident at Yizesi
While at the designated location for the retrieval of weapons, the police team came under fire from unidentified individuals hiding in nearby bushes. In the ensuing chaos, both suspects allegedly attempted to escape. The police returned fire in self-defense, during which Munkaila and Musah sustained gunshot wounds. Tragically, despite being rushed to the Tamale Government Hospital for medical attention, they were pronounced dead on arrival.
During the exchange of fire, one police officer also sustained minor injuries and is currently receiving treatment. Another suspect, believed to have been hiding in the bush and involved in the attack on the police team, managed to escape despite reportedly sustaining gunshot wounds.
Recovery of Weapons and Evidence
Despite the confrontation, the police successfully recovered a significant cache of weapons from the site. The items retrieved include:
- One CZ805 assault rifle (marked CO74258) loaded with 14 rounds of 5.56x39mm ammunition.
- One AK-47 assault rifle loaded with 28 rounds of 7.62x39mm ammunition, along with an additional 28 rounds of 7.62x39mm ammunition.
- One pump-action gun with six rounds of “BB” cartridges.
- One single-barrel gun.
- Four jackets identified by the suspects as clothing used during their robberies.
The weapons were discovered concealed in sacks and buried underground at the location identified by the suspects.
Ongoing Investigations
The police have launched an intensive investigation to apprehend other members of the gang who remain at large. Efforts are also being made to identify and bring to justice those who opened fire on the police team during the operation.
The incident highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement officers in combating armed robbery and criminal activities. The recovery of these weapons is considered a significant step toward ensuring public safety and maintaining law and order in the affected regions.
Conclusion
This operation underscores the commitment of Ghana’s security forces to tackling violent crime and ensuring public safety. While it is regrettable that lives were lost during this operation, it is imperative to recognize the risks law enforcement personnel face daily in their efforts to protect citizens.
As investigations continue, authorities have urged members of the public with any information regarding the whereabouts of the remaining suspects to come forward and assist with efforts to bring them to justice. Together, such collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies and communities can help curb criminal activities and create safer environments for all.
-By Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
