Police arrest 16 suspects in major crime crackdown in Tamale
Security efforts in the northern regional capital have intensified as the Ghana Police Service mounts a sweeping crackdown on criminal activities, leading to the arrest of sixteen suspects in Tamale. The coordinated operation, conducted by a joint team of intelligence officers, uniformed police, and special enforcement units, marks one of the most decisive security actions taken in the city in recent months. Authorities say the operation was designed to combat persistent incidents of robbery, narcotics distribution, illegal weapons possession, and gang activity that have raised public concern among residents and business owners.
The police operation was launched in the early hours of the morning following weeks of surveillance, community intelligence gathering, and targeted monitoring of criminal hotspots. According to security officials, areas such as Lamashegu, Aboabo, Choggu, Vittin, and the central business district have recently recorded a surge in coordinated attacks and street-related crimes. The police indicated that the suspects arrested were believed to be connected to a network of criminal gangs that have operated with increasing boldness in recent weeks.
During the crackdown, officers recovered several weapons, quantities of narcotics, stolen motorbikes, unregistered vehicles, communication gadgets, and break-in tools suspected to have been used during various criminal operations. Residents who had reported theft cases were invited by the police to help identify items believed to belong to them. Authorities say this step is crucial in strengthening the chain of evidence for prosecution.
The northern regional police command emphasized that this operation forms part of a broader nationwide crime reduction strategy that seeks to restore public confidence and deter criminal groups who may be attempting to take advantage of loopholes in community surveillance. The police reiterated that intelligence shows that many of the suspects have previously escaped arrest or operated under the cover of night, making round-the-clock patrols and visibility policing essential.
Residents of Tamale have expressed relief following the arrests, noting that crime levels had begun affecting business operations, nighttime transportation, and community social activities. Several residents reported that armed robbery incidents and gang-related violence had created a climate of fear particularly for traders, students, and commuters. Many locals commended the police service for what they describe as a long-awaited and much-needed intervention.
Beyond the arrests, the police are also rolling out a renewed community policing program aimed at strengthening collaboration between law enforcement and residents. Officers say the public must remain vigilant and continue to supply credible information, as several additional suspects linked to the arrested individuals are still being pursued. The police urged residents to report suspicious activities immediately rather than wait until crimes occur.
The northern regional command explained that ongoing investigations will determine the specific charges each suspect will face. Some individuals are believed to be connected to vehicle theft syndicates, while others are suspected to have ties to illegal arms dealers operating across the northern corridor. The police assured the public that all suspects will be processed according to law and arraigned before court once investigations conclude.
As the crackdown continues, law enforcement has increased its presence in key areas of Tamale. Both day and night patrol teams have been assigned to maintain order and prevent retaliatory attacks from associates of the arrested suspects. The police have also begun intelligence-led stop and search exercises in various parts of the city to further restrict criminal mobility.
With security now a major concern for urban centres across the country, the Tamale operation is seen as an important demonstration of the police service’s commitment to safeguarding communities. Authorities say the exercise will continue until criminal networks operating in the region are dismantled. For residents, the recent crackdown brings renewed hope that safety can be restored and that the days of rising crime may finally be coming to an end.
