Police arrest suspected gang leader as two die in Ashanti anti-robbery operation

A police operation targeting a suspected armed robbery syndicate in the Ashanti Region has resulted in the arrest of an alleged gang leader and the deaths of two other suspects during an exchange of gunfire, authorities say.

The Ashanti South Regional Police Command said the intelligence-led operation was carried out over two days, on 16 and 17 June, following investigations into a series of violent robberies and vehicle thefts in Anwiankwanta, Ahwia and parts of Kumasi.

According to police, officers first arrested William Opoku, also known as "Father Blessing", at Ahwia near Kumasi after he allegedly attempted to flee when he spotted security personnel.

Police say the suspect later admitted involvement in a number of robberies, including the theft of a police officer's Toyota Corolla at Pankrono, the robbery of another vehicle at Anloga Junction, and an attack on a police inspector at Kronum Brokutu in July 2025 during which an AK-47 rifle and ammunition were stolen.

Investigators said information provided by the suspect led them to several alleged accomplices, identified as Prince, also known as "Killer Wooah", Sulley alias "Shangu Spirit", Bonkro, Aki and Yaw Antwi. Police believe some stolen vehicles and the missing rifle were in the possession of one of the suspects.

A follow-up operation on 17 June sought to apprehend additional members of the group, including Sulley, Bonkro and another suspect known as "Long Story".

Police said the suspects attempted to escape on a motorbike, injuring an officer in the process, which led to an exchange of gunfire.

Two of the suspects, identified as Sulley and Long Story, sustained gunshot wounds and were later pronounced dead at the Bekwai Municipal Hospital, according to the police statement. Another suspect escaped and remains at large.

Authorities said preliminary investigations have linked the group to other vehicle theft cases, including a robbery at Moro Market in Kumasi.

Police say efforts are continuing to track down the remaining suspects and recover stolen vehicles, firearms and other exhibits connected to the case.

The Ashanti South Regional Command has warned criminal groups operating in the area that security agencies will continue to pursue those involved in violent crime and bring them before the courts.