Police Arrest Woman for Baby Stealing and Theft in Wa

The Upper West Regional Police Command has arrested a 38-year-old woman, Abena Martha Maanibeh, for allegedly stealing a one-week-old baby and other personal belongings of the child’s mother at the Wa market, popularly known as Kejetia.

According to police reports, the complainant, Ms. Kwofie Mwinbelle, delivered a baby boy at the Wa Regional Hospital on August 1, 2025, where the suspect was posing as a caretaker for another patient. On August 10, 2025, Maanibeh deceitfully convinced the new mother to accompany her to the Wa market to buy baby diapers. While there, she allegedly absconded with the baby and the victim’s handbag containing a mobile phone, cash, and other valuables.

Swift action by the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU), led by ASP Madam Stella Atukwia, together with investigators, resulted in the suspect’s arrest on August 15, 2025, at her hideout in Nuobollie community, Savannah Region. Police successfully rescued the baby, who has since been reunited with his mother, and also retrieved some of the stolen items.

The suspect was arraigned before the Wa District Magistrate Court on Monday, August 18, 2025, where she was remanded into custody to reappear on September 2, 2025.

In a statement, the Upper West Regional Police Commander, DCOP Mr. Darko Lemotey, assured the public of the Command’s continuous commitment to protecting lives and property across the region. He also expressed gratitude to the public for their vigilance and support, which contributed to the swift arrest of the suspect.