Ghana Police Service recovered GHS 140,000 and seized an AK-47 assault rifle after a robbery targeting a mobile money vendor. The incident occurred in Lashibi, Greater Accra Region. One armed robber was killed during the attempted heist on Thursday, July 3, 2026.
Chief Superintendent Juliana Obeng, the Accra Regional Police Public Affairs Officer, confirmed the details. The mobile money operator was driving home from work with GHS 140,000 in a bag. Two armed men on a motorbike attacked him. They fired at his vehicle, damaging the windscreen and a tire. The robbers then took the bag with the cash.
This incident highlights the growing risks faced by mobile money operators in Ghana. Such robberies can disrupt financial services for many Ghanaians who rely on MoMo for transactions. The National Communications Authority reported over 1.7 billion mobile money transactions in 2023. These transactions were valued at GHS 1.9 trillion, showing the sector's importance. Increased robbery incidents can reduce public trust and slow the growth of financial inclusion. The police typically respond to these crimes, but prevention remains a challenge.
Police investigations show the victim reportedly fired at the attackers as they tried to escape. He killed one of the robbers at the scene. The second suspect managed to flee but left behind the stolen bag. This allowed officers to recover the full GHS 140,000. Police confirmed the victim was not injured during the attack. The Ghana Police Service is actively pursuing the second suspect involved in the robbery.
The recovery of the large sum of cash restores the immediate financial stability of the vendor. It also sends a clear message about the risks involved in violent crime. Authorities will intensify efforts to apprehend the fleeing suspect. This incident may prompt further discussions on improving security measures for mobile money operators. It could also influence public perception of safety within the growing digital payments sector. The banking sector and financial regulators will watch these developments closely.
A search of the deceased suspect, identified by an ID as Innocent Elemuwa Akachukeu, aged 46, revealed additional items. Police found an AK-47 assault rifle, two magazines with 55 rounds of live ammunition, and another 11 rounds. They also recovered GHS 3,000 in cash and a Samsung mobile phone. Crime scene investigators retrieved five spent AK-47 shells and two spent pistol shells. The suspect's body is at the Police Hospital mortuary for preservation and autopsy.
The Accra Regional Police Command continues its investigations into the case. They have appealed to the public for information that could lead to the arrest of the second suspect. The public can report relevant information via emergency numbers 18555 or 191. The Command reiterated its commitment to combating violent crime and safeguarding citizens.