Accra: Police dismantle armed robbery gang: All five suspects convicted

The Greater Accra Regional Police Command has successfully dismantled a notorious armed robbery gang responsible for two violent robberies in the capital, leading to the arrest, prosecution, and conviction of all five suspects involved.

The first incident occurred on May 11, 2025, at approximately 1:25 a.m., when two armed men—Isaac Agbezudor, alias “Money Man,” a 20-year-old mechanic, and Justice Akwasi Sarfo Oppong, known as “Gariba Manta” or “Demon,” a 19-year-old okada rider—stormed the Jos Bakery Head Office at Dome. Riding an unregistered motorbike, the duo fired a locally made pistol into the air to terrorize bakery staff, before fleeing with a Teno Pop 8 smartphone worth GHC1,500 and a handbag containing personal items.

Acting swiftly, police arrested Agbezudor on May 14 during a covert operation. His confession enabled authorities to retrieve key evidence, including the getaway motorbike, clothing used during the crime, and information about his accomplice. Gariba Manta was apprehended on May 22 at a mining site between Osino and Saaman. He subsequently led police to a hideout at Sonitra, Amasaman, where the firearm and live ammunition used in the robbery were discovered.

Both suspects were tried at the Kwabenya Circuit Court. Agbezudor, who pleaded guilty, was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment on two counts, to run concurrently. Gariba Manta received a 15-year sentence.

Further investigations linked Manta to an earlier robbery on February 5, 2025, at ACP Junction near Kwabenya. Alongside three accomplices—Bright Alikor, alias “Zaamani” (21), Emmanuel Nii Odartey Lamptey, alias “Chameleon” (23), and Prince Owusu, alias “Check Boy” (19)—Manta attacked a female victim using a knife and scissors. The assailants made away with an iPhone 11 Pro Max, a Samsung tablet, and GHC6,000 in cash. The victim sustained knife wounds during the assault.

Following intensive covert operations, all three accomplices were arrested and stood trial. Each was convicted and sentenced to 15 years in prison.

Police are now pursuing a suspect in Koforidua believed to have purchased the stolen iPhone 11 Pro Max.

Superintendent Juliana Obeng, Head of Public Affairs for the Accra Regional Command, commended the intelligence and operational teams for their commitment and efficiency. “These convictions reflect our ongoing commitment to making our communities safer,” she said, encouraging the public to continue sharing credible information. She assured all informants of the highest level of confidentiality and protection.