Ashanti South Police Command Dismantles Armed Robbery Gang

Bekwai (Ash), April 1, – The Ashanti South Regional Police Command has successfully dismantled a suspected armed robbery syndicate following two coordinated operations in Krofrom and Mamponteng near Kumasi, resulting in the death of a key suspect and the arrest of the alleged gang leader.

The first operation, conducted on March 26, 2026, led to the arrest of Munir Ali, also known as Petit, aged 27, who later died from injuries sustained during the encounter. According to police, Ali attempted to flee and fired at officers, prompting return fire. He was taken to Bekwai Municipal Hospital but succumbed to his injuries.

Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Cephas Arthur, Deputy Regional Commander, said Ali confessed to involvement in several robberies during preliminary interrogation. These included:

March 3, 2026: Robbery at Manso Mpatasie–Manso Odaho
March 7, 2026: Robbery at Mankranso
March 10, 2026: Attack on commuters along Obuasi–Dunkwa road

Ali also linked the gang to robbery activities in Tarkwa (Western Region) and Aflao (Volta Region). Police recovered an unmarked pistol, one spent cartridge, and two live cartridges from him. He named accomplices including Dauda, Orlo, Bash, Emma (Abodie), A.T, and the gang leader, Obey. The gang leader was reported to possess two AK-47 assault rifles and a pump-action shotgun.

The second operation on March 28, 2026, at Mamponteng, resulted in the arrest of the alleged gang leader, Obey, real name Osmanu Razak, aged 28, from Garu. During interrogation, he admitted to involvement in several robberies, including Mankranso and Kunsu Wiaso, and confirmed his participation in the Tarkwa robbery, while denying involvement in the Aflao incident.

Osmanu Razak identified Bash, Emma (Abodie), and Atta Kakra (A.T) as remaining gang members. The two AK-47 rifles and the pump-action gun are reportedly with Bash, who remains at large.

The Ashanti South Regional Police Command assured the public that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining members, emphasizing their zero-tolerance stance on violent crime: