Police gun down suspected robber, seize 5 firearms in Bono shootout

The Ghana Police Service has recovered five assorted firearms following a shootout with suspected armed robbers in the Bono Region, which left one suspect dead.

In a statement, the police said the weapons were retrieved during an intelligence-led operation targeting robbery gangs believed to be operating within the region.

According to the statement, intelligence gathered on February 11 indicated that a gang was planning an attack on traders travelling along the Dormaa–Gonokrom highway. Surveillance teams were immediately deployed to the area in an effort to foil the suspected robbery.

In the early hours of February 12, officers advancing towards a parked motorbike reportedly came under gunfire from nearby bushes. The police returned fire and, at daybreak, a search of the area led to the discovery of a male suspect dead, with an AK-47 rifle found beside him.

A subsequent search uncovered a sack containing additional weapons and ammunition. The items retrieved included two Baikal single-barrel guns, a pump-action gun, a Beretta pistol loaded with three rounds of 9mm ammunition and 34 additional rounds, as well as another AK-47 rifle loaded with 11 rounds and an extra 10 rounds of ammunition. Officers also recovered 39 rounds of BB cartridges, a dagger, a mobile phone, a Honda motorbike, a black mask and a set of talismans.

The body of the deceased suspect has been deposited at the Police Hospital mortuary for preservation, identification and autopsy.

The Bono Regional Police Command said efforts were underway to identify and apprehend other members of the gang. It appealed to the public to provide credible information to support ongoing investigations and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safety and security across the region.