The Upper West Regional Police Command has arrested five individuals suspected of belonging to an alleged Mobile Money (MoMo) robbery syndicate. This group is accused of stealing GHS 25,344 from victims in the Wa West District and Wa Municipality. The arrests followed months of intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling the criminal network.
The syndicate allegedly attacked victims, often wounding them with machetes, before forcing them to reveal their MoMo Personal Identification Numbers (PINs). Robbers then used these PINs to transfer money directly from victims’ accounts. Preliminary investigations link three of the arrested suspects to multiple robbery incidents in the area, including attacks at Kpenateng Junction and Kulkpara-Dapoha.
This incident underscores the growing vulnerability of digital financial transactions in Ghana, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas. The rise of MoMo services has provided convenient banking access but also created new targets for criminals. The police action reflects a broader effort to secure the digital economy and protect citizens' financial assets from such sophisticated criminal operations.
The Upper West Regional Police Command confirmed the arrests in a press release issued on Tuesday, August 11. They identified six suspects in connection with the syndicate, including a 52-year-old man who died during the operation. Police named Amadu Moro, 35; Adama Yussif, 40; Idrissu Adama, 35; Korika Issaka, 20; and Zakaria Brigi, 21, as those in custody. Nasiru Abdul Rahman, 52, died after sustaining injuries during the operation.
The police investigation has so far established that the syndicate allegedly stole GHS 22,070 in cash from victims. Additionally, GHS 3,274 was reportedly siphoned from victims through their MoMo accounts. The total amount identified in the investigation stands at approximately GHS 25,344, combining both cash and MoMo transfers. Police also retrieved seven mobile phones from the suspects, which are being examined for further evidence.
The continued threat of MoMo-related crime poses a challenge to financial inclusion efforts and public trust in digital payment systems. The Bank of Ghana and telecommunication companies have been working to enhance security features and educate users on safe practices. However, incidents like this highlight the need for sustained law enforcement efforts to combat evolving criminal tactics.
Two other individuals believed to be connected to the syndicate, Haruna, 30, and Amadu Mahamudu, 24, remain at large. Haruna is allegedly the gang's armourer, while Amadu Mahamudu is the son of the deceased suspect. The Upper West Regional Police Command has intensified efforts to locate and arrest these two wanted suspects.
The police have urged residents in affected communities to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. Public cooperation is crucial for ongoing investigations and for preventing further criminal activities. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent security risks associated with the rapid expansion of mobile financial services across Ghana.