IGP Vows Ruthless Crackdown After Arrest of Robbery Gang Linked to Amankwa Murder

The Inspector General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohunu, has assured Ghanaians of a sustained crackdown on criminal activities following the arrest of suspects connected to the robbery and murder of Mr. Andrews Amankwa.

Addressing the media, the IGP reaffirmed the commitment of the Ghana Police Service to ensuring that criminal gangs do not operate with impunity.

“As I’ve always assured the good people of Ghana, my team and I remain committed to making life uncomfortable for criminal elements in the country,” he stated. “No matter how far they run or how much they hide, we will pursue them, dismantle their operations, and bring them to justice.”

Mr. Yohunu explained that he was informed on February 10 about a robbery incident at Ohyem Tego Junction, where a man was shot and his Toyota Hilux vehicle stolen. The victim, later identified as Andrews Amankwa, succumbed to his injuries after being rushed to the hospital.

He disclosed that four suspects have been arrested in connection with the crime, including three alleged members of the gang responsible for the attack. A fourth suspect, believed to be the gang leader, died from gunshot wounds sustained during a police operation.

The IGP revealed that a special investigative team was immediately constituted, comprising the Ashanti Regional Commander, the Regional Intelligence Team, the Anti-Robbery Unit, and the Cyber-Vetting Team from the CID Headquarters.

The first arrest occurred on February 18, when Akwasi Manu was found in possession of a mobile phone belonging to the deceased. He has since been charged with possession of stolen property and remanded in custody, with a court date set for March 5.

Subsequent operations led to the arrest of Bashiru Tanko at Atonsu High School Junction in Kumasi on February 19. Two additional suspects, Kwadwo Amponsah and Emmanuel Kwame Appiah, were apprehended on February 21 and 22 at Hireso near Buakra and at Danyame Soldier Barracks in Kumasi, respectively.

The IGP extended his condolences to the bereaved family and commended officers as well as members of the public who provided crucial information to aid the investigation.

“Your collective efforts will go a long way in ensuring justice is served and giving the family closure,” he said.

He concluded with a stern warning to criminals: “We will leave no stone unturned. By every legal means possible, we will continue to pursue, arrest, and bring you to justice. That is a promise.”