The Ashanti Regional Police Command has arrested a notorious suspected armed robber, Michael Owusu Ansah, popularly known as “Baby Last,” who had been evading law enforcement since 2016.
The 32-year-old suspect was wanted in connection with the robbery and murder of Police Officer G/Cpl Frank Essel of the SWAT Unit, an incident that occurred at the Open Space Hotel in Denchemuoso on May 19, 2016.
Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, Ashanti Regional Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Godwin Ahianyo, confirmed that Ansah was captured on April 22, 2025, by police intelligence operatives, along with four alleged accomplices.
During interrogation, Ansah reportedly admitted to participating in numerous armed robberies targeting both residential and commercial locations in Denchemuoso, Atwima-Techiman, Asuoyeboah, and other surrounding areas.
All five suspects were brought before the Atasomanso Circuit Court on May 13, 2025, where they were remanded into police custody. They are scheduled to reappear in court on June 4, 2025, as investigations continue.
In a separate crackdown on Thursday, May 8, 2025, the Ashanti Regional Police Command arrested three other suspected armed robbers identified as Umar Issah (26), Sherif Mohammed (20), and Abdul Jalelu (19) in the Kenyasi area. The trio allegedly attacked two residents, stealing their mobile phones before attempting to flee on motorbikes.
During a high-speed police pursuit, one of the suspects, Sherif Mohammed, sustained a gunshot wound to the right rib, while his accomplices suffered various injuries. All three are currently receiving medical treatment under police guard at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.
DSP Ahianyo reiterated the police command’s commitment to combating violent crime in the region, assuring residents that proactive measures are being taken to enhance public safety.
“Baby Last has been a high-profile target since 2016 when Commissioner, Rtd. Kofi Boakye, first declared him wanted for his alleged role in the murder of G/Cpl Frank Essel. His arrest marks a significant victory in our ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks in the region,” DSP Ahianyo said.
