10 arrested, three killed as Police break up Rural Bank robbery syndicate
The Ghana Police Service has dismantled a notorious armed robbery syndicate that has been targeting rural banks across several regions in the country.
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, made the announcement at a press conference held at the National Police Headquarters in Accra on Wednesday, September 24, 2024.
Addressing members of the press, police officers, and other dignitaries, the IGP described the successful operation as a “major breakthrough” in the Service’s ongoing crackdown on organised armed robbery groups.
According to IGP Yohuno, the Police Service began observing a disturbing pattern of attacks on financial institutions—particularly rural banks—over the past year. The similarities in the execution of these robberies pointed to a coordinated and well-structured gang.
“This morning, we are delighted to share with you a major breakthrough the Service has made in our fight against violent crimes, specifically armed robbery,” the IGP stated. “After analysing data and conducting surveillance in collaboration with credible informants, we were able to track down the syndicate.”
The operation, which covered five regions—Ahafo, Western, Central, Eastern, and Ashanti—was carried out in towns such as Esereso Adagya, Ejisu Achiaakrom, Atonsu-Kyirapatre, Ahwia-Zongo, Aputuogya-Abuontem, Kaase-BOST, Asuofua, Atonsu-Monaco, Pakyi, Obuasi, and Buoho near Kronum.
Dr. Yohuno revealed that 10 suspects were arrested during the operation, while three others were fatally shot during a gun battle with police operatives. A manhunt has been launched for the remaining members of the gang who are currently on the run.
“We will not stop until we get them arrested,” the IGP assured.
During the operation, the police recovered a cache of weapons and other items, including:
* 14 weapons (AK-47 rifles, pump action guns, pistols, and a single-barreled gun)
* Ammunition
* Vehicles
* Mobile phones
The IGP extended commendation to the Ashanti Regional Police Commander and his intelligence team for their instrumental role in the successful operation. He also lauded the efforts of all officers involved and acknowledged the critical role played by members of the public.
“I wish to sincerely thank members of the public who volunteered credible information to the police that contributed to this breakthrough,” Dr. Yohuno said, encouraging continued cooperation from the public. “The Service is committed to rewarding credible information that supports our investigations.”
Concluding his remarks, the IGP reaffirmed the police’s commitment to rooting out criminal elements from society.
“We will continue to make life uncomfortable for criminal elements in our society. We will continue to pursue you till you are brought to justice,” he warned.
