IGP Christian Tetteh Yohuno Promotes Four Officers for Dismantling Violent Armed Robbery Syndicate in Upper West Region

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has announced the promotion of four police officers in recognition of their exceptional bravery and tactical precision in dismantling a dangerous armed robbery syndicate in the Upper West Region. The promoted personnel—General Corporal Mortsi Kwashie Divine, Detective Corporal Salifu Ishmael Aketisiwin, General Lance Corporal Ernest Ameyaw Akumfi, and General Lance Corporal John Bekaar Vitus—were instrumental in a series of intelligence-led operations that successfully targeted a gang terrorizing the Wa West District and Wa Municipality. This administrative move underscores the Police Service's commitment to rewarding personnel who demonstrate high levels of professionalism in the line of duty.

The criminal syndicate’s operations were characterized by extreme violence and a specialized focus on digital financial theft. According to investigative reports, the gang members typically attacked their victims with machetes, inflicting physical injuries to coerce them into surrendering their Mobile Money (MoMo) PINs. This method allowed the robbers to siphon funds directly from victims' digital wallets. Preliminary investigations have linked the group to the theft of approximately GH"22,070 in physical cash and an additional GH"3,274 taken through MoMo accounts. During the arrests, police recovered seven mobile phones used in these illicit transactions.

The operation resulted in the apprehension of six suspects, whose ages range from 20 to 52 years. However, one suspect, 52-year-old Nasiru Abdul Rahman, succumbed to injuries sustained during the high-stakes police operation. Among those currently in custody and assisting with further investigations are Amadu Moro and Adama Yussif. While the primary leaders of the syndicate have been neutralized, the Upper West Regional Police Command has intensified its search for two additional members of the gang who managed to evade capture and remain at large.

This successful intervention is seen as a major boost to regional security and a testament to the effectiveness of the current police leadership's intelligence-led strategies. The Ghana Police Service has reiterated its dedication to protecting lives and property across the country, urging residents in the Upper West Region to remain vigilant. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities or information regarding the whereabouts of the fugitives to help ensure the total eradication of the syndicate and the continued safety of the Wa community.