The Ghana Police Service says a suspected illegal firearms supply network in Kumasi is under investigation following a gun battle that left two alleged armed robbers dead along the Obuasi–Dunkwa highway.
According to the Ashanti South Regional Command, the incident occurred during an intelligence-led operation carried out on March 10 and 11, targeting a group believed to be planning robberies along the highway corridor.
Police said officers moved in after receiving information that several armed men had gathered in a bush near the road to prepare for an attack. When the police team approached, the suspects reportedly opened fire and attempted to escape through the bush.
Officers returned fire during the exchange, fatally wounding two suspects who were later identified as David Aheto, 42, from Sogakope but residing in Asin Fosu, and Illiasu Bawa, 32, a native of Banda Nkwanta. Both were taken to the Bekwai Municipal Hospital, where they were pronounced dead on arrival.
Police said weapons recovered from the scene included an AK-47 rifle loaded with 28 rounds of ammunition, a pump-action shotgun with five live cartridges, and additional ammunition.
Investigators believe the suspects were linked to several robbery incidents across communities including Obuasi, Dunkwa-on-Offin, Wasa Akropong and Asin Fosu.
Subsequent intelligence operations led police to what they describe as a wider arms supply network operating from the Asawase area.
Police allege that a suspect identified as Alhaji Abdalah sold the AK-47 rifle used by the gang for GH¢45,000 and may have supplied additional firearms to another robbery suspect currently on remand in Wasa Akropong.
