Five arrested over attacks on gold dealers in Ashanti, Western regions

A major police crackdown on suspected armed robbers operating in the Ashanti and Western regions has led to the arrest of five alleged gang members and the recovery of a cache of weapons and ammunition.

The Ghana Police Service said the suspects were picked up during a series of intelligence-driven operations carried out between August and September 4, 2026.

One other suspect, identified as 40-year-old Seidu Salifu, died during the operations.

The police recovered three AK-47 rifles, five magazines, 357 rounds of ammunition and two vehicles believed to have been connected to the gang’s activities.

According to the Police Service, the group is suspected of targeting gold dealers, mining operations and communities across Wassa Akropong, Diaso, Dome, Abofour Camp and the Manso area.

Those arrested have been identified as 33-year-old Clinton Mawuli, Richmond Mensah, alias Master Abey, Daniel Sarfo, alias Abedi, Prince Duker and another suspect.

Police said Salifu, who was associated with earlier robbery incidents around Sakam near Offinso, was already standing trial at the Nsuta Circuit Court over the alleged robbery of gold bullion at Offinso Abofour in July 2025.

In a related operation on August 21, the Western Regional Police Command also arrested four suspects over the alleged robbery and murder of 40-year-old gold buyer Seth Kobina at Agona Fie near Agona Nkwanta.

The suspects are Christopher Seyiri, alias “Cross and Die”, 47; Bashiru Ibrahim, 20; Thomas Odoom, alias “Wale”, 30; and Isaac Quayeson, alias “Last Burial”, who was arrested at Denkyira Kwaboso in the Western North Region.

Two locally manufactured pistols, five live BB cartridges, a metal bar and two cutlasses were reportedly retrieved during the operation.

The Police Service has subsequently deployed specialised teams to communities affected by the attacks as part of measures to prevent further incidents and restore public confidence.

The teams are expected to strengthen security and create a safer environment for residents, traders, gold dealers and other community members to go about their daily activities while investigations continue.

Also read:

• Gold dealer in court over alleged $160,000 gold fraud

• One dead, 4 wounded after robbers attacked gold dealership in Mankranso