A major armed robbery syndicate operating along the Obuasi–Dunkwa Highway has been dismantled following a series of intelligence-led operations by the Ghana Police Service.
The operations, conducted by the Ashanti South Regional Police Command on March 10 and 11, 2026, led to a gun battle between police officers and suspected robbers, leaving two suspects dead, several weapons seized, and additional suspects arrested.
Police Intercept Robbery Plot
According to the Police Command, intelligence received on March 10 indicated that a group of armed men had gathered in a bush along the highway and were preparing to attack unsuspecting travellers.
A police team was immediately deployed to the area. Upon reaching the location near Obuasi, officers spotted about four men armed with guns.
Police say the suspects opened fire on sighting the officers and attempted to escape through the bush, triggering an exchange of gunshots.
During the confrontation, two suspects were shot, while the remaining two, believed to have also sustained injuries, managed to escape into the bush.
Two Suspects Die at Hospital
The injured suspects were later identified as David Aheto, 42, originally from Sogakope but residing at Asin Fosu, and Illiasu Bawa, 32, from Banda Nkwanta.
Both were rushed to the Bekwai Municipal Hospital but were pronounced dead on arrival by medical officers.
Investigators say the suspects were linked to multiple robbery attacks across Obuasi, Dunkwa, Wasa Akropong and Asin Fosu.
Weapons and Ammunition Recovered
A search of the scene led to the recovery of a cache of weapons and ammunition including:
- One AK-47 assault rifle loaded with 28 rounds of 7.62×39mm ammunition
- One pump-action gun loaded with five live BB cartridges
- Eight additional rounds of 7.62×39mm ammunition
- One spent BB cartridge
In total, 36 rounds of ammunition were retrieved.
Illegal Arms Network Uncovered
Further intelligence linked the robbery gang to a wider illegal arms supply network believed to be operating from Asawase.
Police allege that one Alhaji Abdalah, based in the area, sold the recovered AK-47 rifle to the gang for GH¢45,000. Investigators also claim he previously supplied a G3 rifle and a pistol to another suspect, Samuel Agyei, also known as “Africa,” who is currently on remand at Wasa Akropong.
More Arrests and Weapons Recovery
A follow-up operation on March 11 led to the arrest of Aminu Iddrisu, aka “0244.”
Police say the suspect later led investigators to Moshie Zongo in Kumasi, where officers recovered another AK-47 rifle and a Bruni pistol concealed in a sack inside a sheep pen.
Acting on further intelligence, officers also arrested 24-year-old Daniel Debrah.
A search linked to his arrest led to the recovery of an unregistered red Toyota Corolla saloon car, believed to be part of the proceeds from robberies carried out by the late suspect David Aheto.
Manhunt for Remaining Gang Members
Police say suspects Abdalah Alhassan, Jemini Usman alias Babamu, Aminu Iddrisu alias 0244, and Daniel Debrah are currently in custody assisting investigations.
Security agencies have also launched an intensive manhunt for Mallam Aminu and other members of the gang who remain on the run.
The Ashanti South Regional Police Command has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance against armed robbery and the illegal possession or sale of firearms, warning that all individuals linked to such criminal networks will be pursued and brought to justice.
By paqmediagh/Peter Quao Adattor
