National Security Roundup: Interpol Port Inspections, Drug Busts, and Oti Region Shooting Arrests

Ghana Police Secure Arrests in Yendi Kidnapping Case as Mining Violence Erupts in Talensi

Law enforcement agencies across Ghana have intensified operations following a series of criminal incidents ranging from violent mining disputes in the Upper East Region to abductions in the Northern Region. In Yendi, the police have successfully apprehended three individuals linked to a high-profile kidnapping, while in the Talensi District, a deep underground clash has left several workers injured and led to the seizure of illegal explosives. These developments highlight a busy period for security forces working to maintain order and public safety across the country. The Northern Regional Police Command confirmed the arrest of three suspects on September 29, 2026, in connection with the abduction of Ayuba Sumiya Mawudu, also known as Haruna. Mawudu was reportedly kidnapped on September 25 by armed men who demanded a ransom of GH¢100,000 after attacking him and his brother. The victim managed a daring escape with the assistance of local farmers and later identified the suspects through photographs provided during the investigation. Authorities believe the apprehended individuals are part of a larger syndicate involved in several other regional robbery cases and they remain in custody while investigations continue. Further north in Gbane, Talensi, tensions escalated when three employees of Earl International Group Ghana Gold Limited were injured during a violent confrontation with Nanlamtaaba Mining Enterprise. The clash occurred shortly after a court order granted the small-scale firm access to a disputed mining area, despite safety measures recently issued by the Upper East Regional Security Council. Among the injured were a Chinese underground supervisor and two security guards. Security forces arrested an agent associated with Nanlamtaaba for the illegal possession of explosives, while Earl International has called for stricter enforcement of protective measures to secure its operations. In the Ashanti Region, the Nkawie Circuit Court has taken a firm stance against theft by fining two 20-year-old men, Kwame Asare and Bismark Kobby, GHS 6,000 each. The unemployed duo pleaded guilty to conspiracy and the theft of an excavator engine blade and control board valued at GHS 144,000 from businessman Nana Osei Kwadwo in Bonteso. Citing economic hardship as their motive, the pair admitted to selling the high-value equipment for only GHS 6,500. Additionally, an unusual report has emerged from the Greater Accra Region, where an Uber driver told Kasapa FM that he was sexually molested by three women who had engaged his services for a trip from Kasoa to East Legon Hills. These varied incidents reflect the complex security landscape currently facing the Ghana Police Service and the judicial system. While the successful arrests in Yendi and the sentencing in Bonteso demonstrate a commitment to criminal prosecution, the ongoing volatility in the mining sector and the emergence of distressing reports from transport workers underscore the need for broader safety reforms. Authorities continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement to address the evolving nature of crime within their communities.