Nineteen persons have been arrested in a special anti-crime operation conducted by the IGP Special Operations Team at Alaba and Thinker in the Kumasi metropolis.
The operation, carried out on March 25, 2026 was led by DSP Bawah Abdul Jalil and ASP Samuel Mustapha Abenzuo as part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on criminal activities, particularly drug peddling and substance abuse within the metropolis.
The exercise formed part of a routine patrol aimed at tackling robbery, stealing, rape, violent attacks on commuters, drug trafficking, as well as the sale and possession of illegal firearms and ammunition, which police say continue to pose serious threats to public safety.
A total of 111 police personnel were deployed for the operation, supported by ten service vehicles, including a Black Maria for conveying suspects and an armoured carrier to ensure officer safety.
The team conducted extensive patrols across several townships within the city, including areas around the Manhyia Palace enclave, with special attention to identified crime hotspots.
Acting on intelligence, the team moved to Alaba and Thinker, locations noted for drug peddling and substance abuse. Officers conducted systematic searches on pedestrians and shop operators within the area.
During the operation, one Madam Ola Ruth, a shop operator, was arrested after a search of her premises led to the retrieval of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp.
Police later arrested eighteen additional suspects who were allegedly engaged in the peddling and use of illicit substances, bringing the total number of persons arrested to nineteen.
Exhibits retrieved during the operation included quantities of white substances suspected to be heroin or cocaine, dried leaves believed to be Indian hemp, opioids, and other items commonly used for drug consumption.
All the suspects were transported to the Suntreso Police District Headquarters, where they remain in custody pending further investigations and possible prosecution. The seized substances have been handed over to the appropriate investigative units for forensic examination and evidential purposes.
Police say the operation was conducted professionally and in accordance with established procedures, adding that intelligence-led operations will be intensified to dismantle criminal networks in the Ashanti Region.
The IGP Special Operations Team assured the public of its continued commitment to maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of residents through sustained patrols and community collaboration.
