The Ghana Police Service has arrested five suspected armed robbers linked to attacks on gold dealers, mining sites and communities in the Ashanti and Western regions.

The suspects were arrested during intelligence-led operations conducted between August and September 4, 2026, as police intensified efforts to dismantle the alleged gang.

Police recovered three AK-47 assault rifles, 357 rounds of ammunition, five magazines and two vehicles during the operations. One other suspect, 40-year-old Seidu Salifu, died during the operations.

The alleged gang is said to have operated across Wassa Akropong, Diaso, Dome, Abofour Camp and the Manso enclave. Those arrested include 33-year-old Clinton Mawuli, Richmond Mensah, alias Master Abey, Daniel Sarfo, alias Abedi, Prince Duker and another suspect.

Police said Salifu had been linked to previous alleged robberies around Sakam near Offinso. He was also standing trial at the Nsuta Circuit Court over the alleged robbery of gold bullion at Offinso Abofour in July 2025.

In a separate operation on August 21, the Western Regional Police Command arrested four suspects in connection with the alleged robbery and murder of 40-year-old gold buyer Seth Kobina at Agona Fie, near Agona Nkwanta.

The suspects were identified as 47-year-old Christopher Seyiri, alias “Cross and Die”; 20-year-old Bashiru Ibrahim; 30-year-old Thomas Odoom, alias “Wale”; and Isaac Quayeson, alias “Last Burial”, who was arrested at Denkyira Kwaboso in the Western North Region.

Police said investigators recovered two locally manufactured pistols, five live BB cartridges, a metal bar and two cutlasses from the suspects in the separate operation.

The Ghana Police Service has deployed special teams to affected communities to strengthen security, prevent further attacks and reassure residents, traders and other community members as investigations continue.