Police Gun Down Suspect, Arrest Gang Leader in Ashanti Robbery Crackdown
The Ashanti South Regional Police Command has intensified its fight against armed robbery, killing one suspect and arresting an alleged gang leader in two separate operations at Krofrom and Mamponteng near Kumasi.
The first operation, conducted on March 26, 2026, led to the arrest of 27-year-old Munir Ali, popularly known as Petit. According to police, the suspect attempted to escape upon seeing officers and allegedly opened fire, leading to an exchange.
Munir Ali sustained gunshot wounds and was rushed to the Bekwai Municipal Hospital, where he later died while receiving treatment.
Speaking to the media, the Ashanti South Regional Police Public Relations Officer, ACP Cephas Arthur, revealed that the suspect, during preliminary interrogation, admitted involvement in several robbery attacks across the country.
He reportedly confessed to taking part in a robbery attack on commuters along the Obuasi–Dunkwa road on March 10, 2026, where two of his accomplices were shot dead during a police intervention, while he managed to escape.
Police further disclosed that the deceased suspect was linked to other robbery incidents at Manso Mpatasie, Manso Odaho, and Mankranso.
A search conducted on him led to the retrieval of a pistol and ammunition.
Before his death, Munir Ali reportedly mentioned other members of the syndicate, including the alleged gang leader identified as Obey.
Acting on the intelligence, police carried out a second operation at Mamponteng on March 28, 2026, leading to the arrest of the suspected gang leader, Osmanu Razak, aged 28.
During interrogation, Osmanu Razak admitted involvement in some robbery incidents, including attacks at Mankranso and Kunsu Wiaso near Mankranso. However, he denied involvement in the Aflao robbery, attributing it to other members of the gang.
Police say efforts are underway to arrest the remaining suspects still at large.
The Command reiterated its resolve to clamp down on armed robbery and other violent crimes, assuring the public that the region remains unsafe for criminals.
Residents have been urged to support the police with credible information to aid ongoing investigations.
