By Daniel Bampoe
The Ghana Police Service has intensified its nationwide fight against violent crime, recording a series of major breakthroughs that have led to the arrest of armed robbery suspects, dismantling of criminal syndicates, seizure of illegal weapons, and successful prosecution of offenders within the last two months.
At a press briefing held on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters in Accra, the Director-General of the CID, COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, outlined the outcomes of sustained intelligence-led operations conducted between November and December 2025 across several regions.
The operations, she noted, form part of a broader national security strategy aimed at curbing armed robbery, cyber-enabled crime, and the proliferation of illegal firearms, while reinforcing public safety and confidence in law enforcement.
Breakthrough In GH₵7.5m Adabraka Robbery Case
One of the most significant developments announced was the arrest of a key suspect linked to the daylight robbery of GH₵7.5 million at Adabraka earlier this year.
The robbery, which shocked the public due to its brazenness, involved armed attackers intercepting a vehicle transporting proceeds from a gold transaction.
According to police, the suspect, identified as Salim Mohammed, also known as “Fariwata,” was arrested on November 20, 2025, at a health facility in Ashaiman where he had gone for medical treatment.
Investigations revealed that he and his accomplices, wielding AK-47 rifles, opened fire to disperse onlookers and injured the driver before escaping with the cash.
Police say efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining members of the gang and recover the stolen money.
Notorious Phone Snatching Syndicate Dismantled
In a related operation, the CID dismantled a notorious phone snatching and armed robbery syndicate operating across Accra, Tema, and adjoining communities.
The five-member gang—identified as Seth Tetteh Noi alias “Wonder,” Emmanuel Selasi Monyekor, Abdul Fatao Sameed, Karam Fatao, and Abdul Jamel Mohammed—was arrested between December 24 and 26, 2025, following coordinated intelligence-led raids in Ashaiman, Kasoa, and surrounding areas.
Investigations linked the suspects to a series of violent robberies in locations including Oyibi, Appolonia, Spintex, East Legon Hills, Zenu Atadeka, and Ashaiman. Police recovered a pistol and a pump-action gun believed to have been used in multiple robberies.
One of the gang’s most violent operations was a robbery attack on mourners at a funeral in Ashaiman, during which victims lost cash and valuables estimated at over GH₵200,000.
Police also foiled a planned robbery at the Ashaiman China Mall, disrupting what could have been another major crime.
Eight Arrested Over Violent Residential Robbery At Appolonia
In another breakthrough, police arrested eight suspects in connection with a violent home invasion at Appolonia.
The suspects—aged between 21 and 28—include drivers, okada riders, and a herdsman.
Investigations revealed that the group forcibly entered a residence, terrorised occupants, and made away with valuables.
Exhibits retrieved during the operation included helmets, a cutlass, boots, and a bulletproof vest, all of which are aiding ongoing investigations.
Impostor Soldier Busted With Weapons
The CID also arrested a suspect who had been impersonating a soldier while allegedly engaging in criminal activities across Ashalaja, Bekwai, Kyebi, and parts of the Greater Accra Region.
At the time of arrest, the suspect was dressed in full military camouflage and was found in possession of two unregistered foreign pistols, live 9mm and AK-47 ammunition, a bayonet, handcuffs, and military paraphernalia.
Investigators believe the suspect used the disguise to intimidate victims and facilitate criminal operations.
He remains in custody as investigations continue.
Arms Dealer Arrested in Crackdown On Illegal Weapons Trade
In another significant development, police arrested an arms dealer believed to be at the centre of an illegal firearms supply network.
Acting on intelligence, officers intercepted the suspect, identified as Abdulai Ibrahim, on December 29, 2025, during an attempted sale of a CZ rifle at Sodom and Gomorrah in Accra for GH₵35,000.
Further investigations revealed that the suspect had previously trafficked several pump-action guns to the Northern Region and sourced weapons from an arms dealer operating around the UTC area.
Police say efforts are underway to dismantle the wider network.
Court Secures Conviction In Firearm Discharge Case
The CID also announced the successful prosecution of Pergringo Braimah Abubakah Sadick, popularly known as “Cyborg,” who was convicted by the Adenta Circuit Court for unlawfully discharging a firearm in public.
The 54-year-old pleaded guilty and was fined GH₵24,000. The court further ordered the confiscation of his firearm and revoked his licence, reinforcing the state’s zero-tolerance stance on gun-related offences.
