By: Daniel Yao Akpabli | ignewss —KUMASI, Ghana.
The Ghana Police Service has arrested 24 suspects during an intelligence-led operation conducted across several communities in the Ashanti Region as part of efforts to combat violent crime and drug-related offences.
The operation, led by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Special Operations Team (SOT) in collaboration with the Ashanti Regional Police Command, was carried out in Kodie, Apagya, Dechemso, Old Tafo Ahenbronum, Ahodwo and Abofour.
According to a statement issued by the Ashanti Regional Police Public Affairs Unit, the exercise targeted suspected drug traffickers and other individuals believed to be involved in criminal activities within the affected communities.
Police said the operation resulted in the arrest of 24 suspects, comprising 21 men and three women.
Among those arrested was Richmond Okyere, 49, who police said was found in possession of a pump-action shotgun bearing serial number 21GN-1918.
Authorities also recovered a range of items during the operation, including an unregistered Toyota Highlander, an unregistered Toyota Camry saloon, a Mercedes-Benz saloon vehicle with registration number AS 8724-Z, an unregistered motorcycle, the pump-action shotgun, seven rounds of ammunition, a fireproof safe, suspected narcotic substances, suspected cannabis, Tramadol tablets, narcotics-processing materials, suspected drug-laced beverages and confectioneries, electronic devices, cash believed to be proceeds of criminal activity, and other items considered relevant to the investigation.
The suspects remain in police custody and are assisting with investigations, while the recovered exhibits have been retained as evidence. However, police said suspects found culpable will be arraigned before the courts upon the conclusion of investigations.
The Service reaffirmed its commitment to sustained intelligence-led operations aimed at tackling organised crime, drug trafficking and other criminal activities to enhance public safety.
Police also appealed to the public to continue supporting law enforcement efforts by providing credible information on criminal activities through the nearest police station or the designated emergency channels.
SOURCE: www.ignewss.com