Residents of Tema Community 5 Railway Extension say they are breathing a sigh of relief following the arrest of Ateh Larweteh, a former convict who is facing a number of allegations and complaints linked to activities in and around the community.
Larweteh was arrested by National Security operatives on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, after he was allegedly traced to a hideout at Tema Community 1 Site 5.
His arrest follows growing concerns over activities allegedly associated with him, including the reported use of a residential property as a hub for prostitution and suspected illicit drug-related activities.
Residents say the property, which was entrusted to Larweteh as caretaker by its owner, Mr. Afram, who is reportedly based abroad, had become a source of concern within the residential community.
According to residents, several women, including foreign nationals believed to be Nigerians, were regularly seen at the facility, with alleged prostitution activities attracting complaints from residents.
The property was subsequently shut down and secured by National Security operatives following complaints from residents and a formal complaint reportedly lodged by the owner.
Larweteh’s latest arrest is said to have followed an alleged attempt to re-enter the property after it had been sealed by National Security operatives.
Security sources allege that the suspect returned to the premises and used acid and a hacksaw to break the padlock securing the building.
He was subsequently traced to his reported hideout in Community 1 Site 5, where he was arrested.
Sources familiar with the investigation further indicate that Larweteh admitted during interrogation to breaking into the property.
He was subsequently handed over to the Police National Operations Directorate, which commenced legal processes in connection with the matter.
Larweteh’s latest encounter with the law has also brought renewed attention to his previous criminal record.
Police sources describe him as a former convict who served a prison sentence in connection with previous criminal cases in the Tema area.
His arrest has also reportedly triggered a number of separate complaints from individuals who claim to have had encounters with him.
Among those reportedly pursuing a separate complaint is a senior police officer holding the rank of Chief Superintendent.
The specific circumstances and current legal status of the various complaints could not independently be established as of the time of filing this report.
Larweteh is also reportedly standing trial in a separate case involving an alleged assault on Mr. Afram, the owner of the property.
Sources familiar with that case allege that the incident left Mr. Afram seriously injured.
For residents of Community 5 Railway Extension, however, Larweteh’s arrest has provided some relief.
One resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the arrest as a relief for residents who had allegedly lived with concerns over activities around the facility.
Following his arrest and initial investigations, Larweteh has reportedly been granted police bail.
He is expected to appear before court on Monday, August 17, 2026, where the next legal steps in the matter are expected to be determined.
Meanwhile, investigations into the allegations and complaints against him are continuing.
