Ghana Police Intensify Crackdown on Armed Robbery Syndicates with Key Arrests and Fatal Shootout in Ashanti and Upper East Regions

The Ghana Police Service has significantly intensified its operations against violent crime across the country, resulting in the dismantling of a major robbery syndicate in the Ashanti Region and the arrest of suspected criminals in the Upper East Region. These operations, conducted over recent days, highlight the Police Service's commitment to neutralizing criminal networks that have been targeting citizens and their property. The dual success in different parts of the country underscores a broader national security push to curb the rising incidents of vehicle theft and masked robberies.

In the Ashanti South Region, a targeted two-day operation on June 16 and 17, 2026, led to the disruption of a notorious robbery gang. The operation successfully apprehended the gang's leader, William Opoku, better known as “Father Blessing.” Following his arrest, Opoku reportedly confessed to a series of vehicle thefts and armed robberies within the region. However, a subsequent follow-up operation turned violent when other members of the syndicate engaged officers in a gun battle. In the ensuing shootout, two suspects were killed, while another remains at large. Police authorities are currently pursuing the fugitive and working to recover various stolen items linked to the group.

Simultaneously, in the Upper East Region, the Regional Police Command has made strides in curbing robbery incidents in Bolgatanga. Officers apprehended 26-year-old Jeffrey Alentis and his alleged accomplice, Moro Mohammed, in connection with a specific robbery that occurred in the Zaare community. Alentis, described as a notorious masked robber, and Mohammed are currently in police custody aiding the investigation. This arrest is seen as a major breakthrough for the Bolgatanga enclave, which has faced challenges with masked criminals in recent months.

These successful interventions underscore the ongoing strategic efforts by the Ghana Police Service to maintain public safety and restore order in high-risk areas. The police have issued a stern warning to criminal elements across the country, urging them to desist from unlawful activities or face the full rigors of the law. As investigations continue in both the Ashanti and Upper East regions, the authorities are calling for continued public cooperation and vigilance to assist in the apprehension of remaining suspects and the prevention of future crimes.