The Ashanti South Regional Police Command has neutralized a suspected armed robbery syndicate following two intelligence-led operations in the Krofrom and Mamponteng areas near Kumasi. The crackdown resulted 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 apprehension of 27-year-old Munir Ali, also known as “Petit.” According to police, the suspect attempted to flee and opened fire upon spotting the officers. Security personnel returned fire, injuring Ali. He was subsequently rushed to the Bekwai Municipal Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
During preliminary interrogations prior to his death, Munir Ali confessed to involvement in a series of robbery incidents across several regions. ACP Cephas Arthur, speaking to the media, disclosed that the suspect admitted to participating in an attack on commuters along the Obuasi-Dunkwa road on March 10, during which two other suspects, David Aheto and Illiasu Bawa, were killed in a shootout while Ali escaped at the time.
Further confessions linked the syndicate to robberies between Manso Mpatasie and Manso Odaho on March 3, as well as an incident at Mankranso on March 7, 2026. The suspect also implicated the group in criminal activities in Tarkwa in the Western Region and Aflao in the Volta Region.
A search conducted on Ali revealed an unmarked pistol, one spent cartridge, and two live cartridges. Before his death, he named several accomplices, including individuals identified as Dauda, Orlo, Bash, Emma (also known as Abodie), and Atta Kakra alias A.T., as well as the alleged gang leader known as Obey.
Second Operation Leads to Arrest
Acting on intelligence gathered from the first operation, police mounted a second operation on March 28, 2026, at Mamponteng. The operation resulted in the arrest of the alleged gang leader, 28-year-old Osmanu Razak, also known as Obey, a native of Garu.
During interrogation, Osmanu Razak reportedly admitted to participating in multiple robbery incidents, including the Mankranso robbery and another at Kunsu Wiaso near Mankranso. Police stated that the suspect confirmed his involvement in the Tarkwa robbery but denied any role in the Aflao incident, claiming it was carried out by the deceased suspect and other accomplices.
Razak further identified Bash, Emma alias Abodie, and Atta Kakra alias A.T. as members of the gang. He disclosed that two AK-47 rifles and a pump-action shotgun are currently in the possession of Bash, who remains at large.
Manhunt Underway
The Ashanti South Regional Police Command has assured the public that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining members of the syndicate. Authorities have issued a strong warning to criminal elements in the region, declaring a firm stance against armed robbery and other violent crimes.
The police have also appealed to the public to support ongoing operations by providing credible information that could aid in the arrest of the remaining suspects.
