Police have arrested three suspects and recovered an AK47 assault rifle with 87 live ammunition rounds. The operation targeted a criminal gang operating in the Bolgatanga area. This successful bust follows an intelligence-led police operation that has disrupted gang activities in the Upper East Region.
The suspects, Abdulai Ibrahim, Amadu Sulemana and Adu Yakubu, were apprehended in Bolgatanga on Tuesday, May 5. Investigations revealed the group had gathered at Gbane, a mining community, on May 4. They allegedly traveled from Yagaba and Fumbisi to commit robberies. The gang is accused of stealing four motorbikes and several mobile phones. They also confessed to robberies in the Talensi District and along key roads in the North East Region.
This incident highlights ongoing security challenges in the Upper East Region, particularly concerning organized crime and its impact on local businesses and communities. The Talensi District, known for its mining activities, has been a frequent target for such criminal elements. The recovery of an AK47 underscores the serious nature of these groups. The involvement of armed individuals in robberies, as seen in the viral video of the Vikandi Phone Shop incident on March 22, 2025, indicates a growing threat. Robberies at mining sites, where victims lost gold and significant amounts of cash, have also been attributed to this gang.
In a statement released on Facebook on Wednesday, May 6, the police detailed the operation. The suspects led investigators to a farm near Biung, close to Gbane. There, gang leader Amadu Rahman had reportedly hidden the AK47 rifle. The weapon, bearing serial number 68100563, was found concealed in a fertiliser sack along with the ammunition. Tragically, Amadu Rahman collapsed during the process of retrieving the weapon. He was immediately taken to the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital but was unfortunately pronounced dead upon arrival. His body has been transferred to the hospital morgue for an autopsy.
The remaining three suspects are now in police custody. They are expected to face legal proceedings soon. This development is a significant step in enhancing public safety in the region. Authorities will continue to investigate the full extent of the gang's operations and any potential links to other criminal activities. The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police. The recovery of such weaponry is a stark reminder of the need for robust law enforcement efforts.