DCOP Osei Akoto Arthur pictured with other top police officers
Ashanti Regional Police Commander, DCOP Osei Akoto Arthur, has detailed the events leading to the death of the alleged leader of an armed robbery syndicate, Eric Antwi Duku during an intelligence-led operation in Kumasi in the Ashanti Region.
In a violent robbery at Ohwim Tigo Junction, the victim Andrews Amankwa was allegedly killed while suspects fled with his Toyota Hilux pickup.
During a press conference in Kumasi on Monday, February 23, 2026, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno, aided by the Ashanti Regional Police Commander, DCOP Osei Akoto Arthur, confirmed the arrest of four suspects believed to be members of the criminal network.
The robbery occurred on February 10, 2026, when Andrews Amankwa was shot and his Toyota Hilux vehicle taken by armed men. He later died from his injuries.
According to police, an intelligence-led operation conducted between February 18 and 22 led to the arrest of four suspects: Akwasi Manu, Bashiru Tanko, Kwadwo Amponsah and Emmanuel Kwame Appiah.
One of the suspects was reportedly found in possession of a mobile phone belonging to the deceased.
Police further disclosed that the alleged leader of the group, Eric Antwi Duku, also known as Eric Acheampong Adu, was shot during a police operation and later died at a health facility.
The IGP assured the public of the Service’s commitment to tackling violent crime.
“As I have always assured the good people of Ghana, my team and I remain committed to ensuring that we make life uncomfortable for criminal elements in the country,” he stated.
DCOP Osei Akoto Arthur described the group as a dangerous car-jacking syndicate known as the “Duku Syndicate,” which specialised in stealing Toyota Hilux and Land Cruiser vehicles across the Ashanti Region and beyond.
“The Ghana Police Service remains resolute in dismantling violent criminal networks operating within the Ashanti Region and beyond. Criminal elements who threaten public safety will be pursued relentlessly and brought to justice,” he said.
Police said firearms, ammunition, forged vehicle documents and other exhibits were retrieved during the operations. Investigations are ongoing, and the suspects are expected to be put before court.
Authorities have urged members of the public to continue providing credible information to assist in the fight against crime.
SO/VPO
Ashanti Regional Police Commander details shooting of suspected Hilux robbery kingpin
