The recent arrest of a robbery syndicate in Accra has revealed the alarming tactics employed by the group to target innocent citizens and those transacting at financial institutions. The syndicate, consisting of former members of the Ghana Army and Police Service, as well as a former trader, reportedly carried out their nefarious activities at Ashaley-Botwe School Junction and Dansoman, suburbs of Accra.
According to reports, the trio targeted individuals who withdrew bulk cash, and used a combination of impersonation and violence to carry out their robberies. One victim, a nurse who had withdrawn GH¢40,700 from a bank branch in Adjiringanor, was intercepted on her way to Ashaley-Botwe. The syndicate, led by one member in a police uniform, forced her into their taxi and drove her to a secluded spot near the University of Ghana Medical Centre. They then tased her, handcuffed her, and stole her money and an iPhone 11 Pro Max, before abandoning her in the bush.
The nurse managed to get to the roadside and report the incident to the police. After an identification parade, the trio was arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit robbery, as well as other charges related to impersonation and the use of military and police uniforms and equipment.
This incident highlights the need for individuals to exercise caution when withdrawing and transporting large sums of cash, especially in public areas. It also highlights the dangers of impersonation and the use of uniforms and equipment belonging to military and police personnel by civilians for criminal purposes.
For the most part, the Ghanaian public trusts in the professionalism and integrity of the military and police services, and such incidents damage the reputation of these institutions. The arrest of this syndicate and their swift prosecution by the authorities sends a clear message that such criminal behavior will not be tolerated. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the rule of law and the safety of citizens in Ghana.