In a significant breakthrough, the Ghana Police Service has apprehended a suspect linked to the chilling murder of 27-year-old car dealer, Theophilus Ashitey Ama. The victim’s burnt body was discovered inside a vehicle near the Adenta Fuel Link area on the Legon Bypass earlier this year, sparking widespread shock and concern across the nation.
The announcement was made during a press briefing in Accra by the Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, who shed light on the details of the case. The suspect, identified as Omtete, was tracked and arrested on April 30, 2026, in the Republic of Togo through an operation facilitated by Interpol. He was subsequently handed over to Ghanaian authorities at the Aflao border for further investigations.
Details of the Crime Unveiled
According to police investigations, Omtete, who was reportedly a close friend and neighbor of the deceased, allegedly lured Mr. Ama to his residence on April 6 under the guise of negotiating the sale of a vehicle. It is believed that once inside the residence, the suspect attacked the victim, inflicting fatal head injuries. Following the violent act, he allegedly transported Mr. Ama’s body to the Legon Bypass area, where he set both the vehicle and the victim’s body ablaze in an attempt to destroy evidence.
Further investigations revealed that Omtete sold the victim’s Hyundai Elantra saloon car for GH¢170,000, receiving an initial payment of GH¢80,000. To avoid detection, he reportedly removed the vehicle’s number plates before committing arson.
Key Evidence and Arrest
The CID disclosed that investigators were able to track the suspect using CCTV footage captured at the crime scene. Additional evidence emerged when Omtete attempted to sell Mr. Ama’s mobile phone in Togo, leading to his eventual arrest. The suspect has since been arraigned before court and remanded into police custody.
COP Donkor emphasized that due to the severe burns sustained by the victim, visual identification alone was insufficient for confirming his identity. As part of forensic investigations, DNA samples were collected from Mr. Ama’s mother for conclusive analysis.
Ongoing Investigations
In a related development, another individual whose vehicle was allegedly used to transport the victim’s body has been granted police enquiry bail and is currently assisting investigators. The CID has assured the public that investigations into this heinous crime are ongoing as authorities work diligently to uncover all circumstances surrounding the murder.
A Call for Justice
The tragic death of Theophilus Ashitey Ama has left his family and community in mourning, while also raising concerns about safety and trust among close acquaintances. The swift action by law enforcement agencies in apprehending the suspect and advancing investigations demonstrates their commitment to justice and accountability.
As this case unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and community cooperation in combating crime. The Ghana Police Service continues to urge citizens to report suspicious activities and provide any information that could assist in resolving criminal cases.
Our thoughts remain with the family and loved ones of Theophilus Ashitey Ama during this difficult time. May justice be served swiftly and decisively in honor of his memory.
-By Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
