BY Nadia Ntiamoah
The Ghana Police Service has issued a public alert over a new method employed by armed robbers at weddings, parties, and other large social gatherings.
According to the police, the criminals take advantage of unsuspecting vehicle owners by disguising their ploy as a routine announcement during events.
In this scheme, robbers approach the Master of Ceremonies (MC) at functions and request that a particular car registration number be announced, often under the pretext that the car is blocking another vehicle.
Once the announcement is made, the unsuspecting owner of the car heads outside to move it, only to be ambushed by armed men waiting nearby.
Police sources explain that the criminals exploit the fact that the car owner will naturally have the keys in hand, making it easier to hijack the vehicle.
Victims are typically forced at gunpoint to drive their assailants away from the venue, leaving them vulnerable to both robbery and potential harm.
This warning comes against the backdrop of rising incidents of carjacking and targeted robberies in parts of the country.
Over the years, police have advised citizens to be more security-conscious, particularly at public gatherings where criminal syndicates often monitor guests’ movements to identify their targets.
The Ghana Police Service has outlined precautionary steps to help the public avoid falling victim to this scheme:
1. Delay your response – Do not rush outside immediately after your vehicle registration number is announced.
2. Go in groups – Ensure you are in the company of at least two or more people before heading out.
3. Verify before moving – From a safe distance, confirm whether your car is indeed blocking another vehicle, and check if there is a driver inside the supposed blocked car.
4. Remain alert – Carefully observe your surroundings for suspicious activity before approaching your vehicle.
Authorities are urging event organizers, MCs, and guests to exercise caution and work together to prevent such incidents.
Police patrols have been intensified in some areas, but officials maintain that vigilance by the public is the most effective defence against these evolving tactics.
