The Ashanti South Regional Police Command has arrested a wanted suspect believed to be at the centre of a series of violent car snatching and vehicle theft operations across the Ashanti Region.
The suspect, William Opoku, also known as “Father Blessing,” was picked up during an intelligence-led operation at Ahwiaa near Kumasi after police identified hideouts allegedly used by him and members of his gang at Ahwiaa and Pankrono.
According to police, the suspect admitted during interrogation to his involvement in several vehicle theft cases, including the theft of multiple Toyota Corolla vehicles at Anwiankwanta–Asanso, Pankrono, Moro Market, and Anloga Junction in Kumasi.
Police say the suspect later led investigators to recover one of the stolen vehicles, a white Toyota Corolla, which was found at a workshop where it was undergoing repairs.
He is also said to have confessed involvement in a violent attack on a police officer at Kronum Brokutu on July 5, 2025, during which an AK-47 rifle and ammunition were stolen.
Investigations further indicate that the suspect identified several alleged accomplices, including individuals known as Prince alias “Killer Wooah,” Suley alias “Shangu Spirit,” Bonkro alias “Okoronko,” Aki, and Yaw Antwi.
A follow-up police operation on June 17, 2026, officers spotted three other suspects, including Suley alias Shangu Spirit and Bonkro alias Okoronko, riding an unregistered Honda PCX motorbike. During an attempted arrest, the rider allegedly knocked down a police officer and opened fire while fleeing.
Police returned fire, injuring two suspects identified as Suley alias “Shangu Spirit” and another suspect known as “Long Story.” They were rushed to the Bekwai Municipal Hospital, where they were pronounced dead on arrival. Their bodies have been deposited for preservation and autopsy.
One suspect, Bonkro alias “Okoronko,” reportedly escaped and is currently being pursued.
Police say the AK-47 rifle stolen from the earlier attack is believed to be in the possession of William Opoku for safekeeping.
The suspect remains in custody assisting investigations, while police say efforts have been intensified to arrest the remaining gang members and recover all stolen vehicles, weapons, and ammunition.
By Peter Quao Adattor/paqmediagh
