Ashanti Police Arrest Five in Robbery and Murder Crackdown
The Ashanti Regional Police Command has apprehended five suspects in connection with a robbery-murder and a series of street robberies plaguing Kumasi and its surrounding areas.
DCOP Arthur Osei Akoto, the Regional Police Commander, revealed that the arrests stemmed from intelligence-led operations designed to tackle rising violent crime in the region, during a press briefing at the Ashanti Regional Police Headquarters.
Two of the suspects are currently assisting police with investigations into the death of 28-year-old Silver Ngozi, who was robbed and murdered on December 6, 2025, at approximately 5:00 p.m. in Asokore Mampong.
Farouk Iddris, a 20-year-old motorbike mechanic, and Salim Mohammed, 19, who works as both a mechanic and rickshaw rider, were arrested on December 12th at a hideout in Aboabo, Kumasi, by a combined team from the Regional Headquarters and the Anti-Robbery Unit.
“Investigations revealed that the suspects robbed the victim, and during the process, one of them allegedly stabbed her with a knife, leading to her unfortunate death,” DCOP Osei Akoto stated. “A search of Farouk Iddris’ room uncovered a machete, several knives, and other offensive weapons.”
Both suspects have confessed to the robbery. Salim Mohammed specifically identified a zigzag-edged knife as the weapon used in the stabbing. Police have recovered the knife, the victim’s iPhone 11 Pro, and other stolen items as evidence.
In a separate operation, police arrested three individuals – Abdul Fatawu, also known as “UN”, 22; Philip Nyarko, alias “Kawawa”, 24; and Samak Hadi, alias “Toronto”, 21 – linked to a spate of street robberies in Asokore Mampong, KNUST, Kenyasi, Bosore, Duase, Antoa, Mayanka, Ayeduase, and nearby communities.
A search of their Aboabo hideout yielded a significant haul of stolen devices, including 59 iPhones, six Android phones, four tablets, and five laptops.
“All the suspects have given caution statements admitting their involvement in the crimes and are currently in police custody, aiding with our investigations,” DCOP Osei Akoto confirmed.
The Ashanti Regional Police Command is urging anyone who may have been a victim of robbery in these areas to come forward and report to the nearest police station to assist with the ongoing investigations.
The suspects are expected to be brought before the court soon. The Ghana Police Service has reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order in the Ashanti Region and has appealed to the public for timely and credible information to help in the fight against crime.
Image Source: MYJOYONLINE
