The Ghana Police Service in the Ahafo Region has successfully apprehended three young men in connection with the unlawful possession of firearms and an alleged plan to commit robbery, in an operation that underscores the ongoing effort by security agencies to combat violent crime and protect communities. The arrests occurred during the late hours of Saturday, February 22, 2026, when officers from the Ahafo Regional Taskforce Patrol team were on routine duty along the Ayomso–Goaso road near Goaso, the regional capital, and noticed two individuals riding an unregistered motorbike with their headlights switched off. Police signalled for the duo to stop, but the suspects attempted to flee before being pursued and taken into custody. A subsequent search of the motorbike revealed a loaded AK-47 assault rifle with 29 rounds of ammunition, which had been concealed in a bag carried by the suspects.
In his address to the media, Deputy Commissioner of Police James Annor, Ahafo Regional Police Commander, explained that the initial arrests were followed by an expanded investigation that led officers to the residence of one of the suspects, identified as Johnson Mawutor, in the Abrodanho suburb of Goaso. During a search of the property, additional weapons and items believed to be linked to a planned robbery were recovered. These included a Beretta Bruni pistol, an NM157-1941 pistol, 30 rounds of 9mm ammunition, and 50 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, all of which were found hidden within the suspect’s room. Police also seized four mobile phones, a Contiso F35 drone, a machete and a bayonet knife, items that investigators believe may have been intended for use in criminal activity.
DCOP Annor revealed that the arrested individuals are Johnson Mawutor (26), Kelvin Ofori (22) and Mawuli Dogba, all of whom are currently assisting police with investigations. A fourth suspect, Mohammed Adinan Ussif, is believed to be at large, and efforts are underway to trace and apprehend him along with any other accomplices connected to the case. Preliminary intelligence indicates that the weapons were acquired on the same day of the arrests from Techiman in the Bono East Region, suggesting coordination across regional lines.
The arrests reflect ongoing intelligence-led operations by the Ghana Police Service to dismantle criminal networks engaged in armed robbery and other violent offences. The discovery of a drone among the recovered items alarmed police, given the increasing reports of criminal elements using technology to gather information and coordinate high-risk operations in both urban and rural settings. As such, law enforcement officials emphasised the importance of integrating modern equipment awareness into patrol and investigation strategies to stay ahead of evolving criminal tactics.
Authorities have assured residents in the Ahafo Region and beyond that the police remain vigilant and committed to ensuring public safety. In his remarks, DCOP Annor reiterated the police’s dedication to creating a secure environment for all citizens and urged members of the public to continue providing credible information that could assist in preventing crime and safeguarding communities. He also appealed for patience and cooperation as investigations continue and as authorities pursue additional suspects believed to be involved in the alleged criminal plot.
The incident in Ahafo follows a broader pattern of intensified police operations across various regions in Ghana aimed at curtailing armed violence and robbery. In recent months, security forces have conducted numerous intelligence-driven actions leading to arrests in separate armed robbery cases, and recoveries of illegal firearms and ammunition, demonstrating a nationwide effort to strengthen law enforcement response and protect lives and property.
As the suspects remain in custody, preparations are underway to charge and formally arraign them in court. The Ghana Police Service emphasises that successful prosecutions will serve as a deterrent to others who may consider engaging in similar criminal activities, reinforcing the rule of law and promoting peace within the region.
Overall, the Ahafo Region arrests highlight the police’s proactive stance against armed criminality and the importance of community cooperation in supporting security operations. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity promptly, and collaborate with law enforcement to sustain progress in reducing crime across the country.