The items found in the abandoned car of the suspected robbers. INSET: The abandoned car
TWO SUSPECTED robbers, who were perhaps planning to embark on a major robbery operation within Aputuogya and Bekwai area in the Ashanti Region on Sunday, suddenly fled through the bush after seeing a police patrol team, leaving behind a catchment of ammunition in their car.
The unknown hoodlums were said to be standing beside a Toyota Sienta private vehicle and smoking a substance suspected to be Indian hemp, popularly known as ‘Wee’, on the main Aputuogya-Bekwai road when they saw a police patrol team vehicle approaching.
Even before the police team could get closer, the two men reportedly fled through the bush, leaving behind their vehicle, which was contained weapons including guns.
A police statement, written and signed by DSP Godwin Ahianyo of the Ashanti Regional Police Public Affairs Unit, said the police gave the men a wild chase through the bush but they managed to escape, adding that police later found ammunition in their abandoned car.
He said, “The Ashanti Regional Police Command has commenced investigations into the unlawful possession of weapons and ammunition after officers from the Kuntanase District Patrol Team intercepted a vehicle containing firearms and ammunition on Sunday, August 17, 2025.
“While conducting routine patrols on the Aputuoagya–Bekwai road, the patrol team spotted a white Toyota Sienta private vehicle with registration number NR 289-24, suspiciously parked near a bushy area along the roadside.
“Two male adults were observed standing beside the vehicle, allegedly smoking a substance suspected to be a narcotic drug. Upon noticing the approaching police team, the individuals fled into a nearby bush and escaped despite a pursuit by the officers.
“A search conducted on the abandoned vehicle led to the recovery of weapons and items believed to indicate preparation to commit a crime.
“The retrieved items include one (1) AK-47 assault rifle (Serial No. 29546), one (1) locally manufactured firearm, two (2) AK-47 magazines, each loaded with 30 rounds, four (4) packets of AK-47 ammunition, each containing 25 rounds and seven (7) loose rounds of ammunition.”
DSP Ahianyo also disclosed that the police found “one pair of Wellington boots, one Huawei smartphone, cowrie shells, one pair of sandals, a Ghana Card and Temporary Driver’s Licence (name withheld for investigative purposes).”
The suspects abandoned vehicle, he stated, has since been impounded at the Kuntanase Police Station, and all recovered items have been retained as exhibits to support ongoing investigations, noting that the police remains resolute and committed to prevent violent crimes.
DSP Ahianyo concluded by appealing passionately to “members of the public with any information that could assist in the arrest of the suspects are urged to report to the nearest police station or contact the police emergency numbers: 191, 18555, or 112.”
FROM I.F. Joe Awuah, Kumasi