The Ghana Police Service has arrested a Nigerian man, Augustine Okechuku Maazi, and killed two suspected robbers during an intelligence-led operation in Accra, foiling an alleged plot to attack bank branches. The operation occurred on Thursday after security agencies received intelligence about a robbery syndicate allegedly planning coordinated attacks on GCB Bank, Ecobank, and Zenith Bank branches in the Labone area.
Police Operation Thwarts Alleged Attack
According to police, the information was received around 10:45 a.m., prompting officers to move quickly into the area before any attack could happen. When officers arrived, they found suspects sitting inside vehicles parked close to the banks. One vehicle sped off immediately upon noticing the police, leading to a chase that resulted in Maazi's arrest, while another suspect escaped.
The second vehicle also attempted to flee, but the occupants allegedly opened fire on police. "The robbers in the second vehicle also tried to escape amidst firing, but the police engaged them in a shootout, resulting in the death of two suspects," the Police Service said. Another suspect escaped and is currently being hunted.
Recovered Items and Investigation
During the raid, officers recovered two vehicles believed to have been used by the gang—a Toyota Highlander with registration number GS-1434-18 and a Hyundai Tucson with registration number GS 7915-17. A blow pistol was also recovered. Maazi remains in police custody and is assisting investigators. The bodies of the two deceased suspects have been deposited at the morgue for preservation, identification, and autopsy. The Ghana Police Service appealed to residents to continue sharing credible information to help prevent crime.
GCB Bank Denies Robbery
GCB Bank later issued a statement insisting that its Labone branch was not robbed and that no customers, staff, funds, or property were affected. The bank said its operations were never disrupted. Police have not explained whether the suspected gang intended to force their way into any banks or whether customers and people in the area were the actual targets. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue searching for the remaining suspect.
