The Ashanti Regional Police Command has arrested four suspected members of a notorious carjacking gang known as the “Duku Syndicate,” following the robbery and murder of Mr. Andrews Amankwah at Ohwim-Amanfrom on February 10.
The breakthrough came after a coordinated intelligence-led operation ordered by the Inspector-General of Police. The operation involved the Regional Police Intelligence Directorate, the Cyber Vetting and Enforcement Team, and the CID Anti-Armed Robbery Unit.
Between February 18 and 22, police picked up four suspects in separate operations across Kumasi. They include:
- Akwasi Manu (47) — arrested for unlawful possession of the victim’s Samsung phone, which provided a major lead.
- Bashiru Tanko alias “TK” (33) — arrested at Atonsu, linked to previous car-snatching incidents.
- Kojo Amponsah alias “Kamakazi” (35) — arrested at Hwireso near Boankra, provided intelligence connecting the gang to multiple violent robberies.
- Emmanuel Kwame Appiah alias “Taller” (38) — arrested at Danyame, identified as the driver during the fatal attack.
The alleged leader of the syndicate, Eric Antwi Duku (42), sustained gunshot wounds during a police operation on February 22 and later died at the hospital.
Police recovered a Bruni Mod 84 pistol loaded with eight rounds, a tracking detection device, forged vehicle documents, and a Toyota Corolla S. Investigations reveal the gang specialized in stealing Toyota Hilux and Land Cruiser vehicles, often after monitoring victims. The group has also been linked to other violent robberies in Amanfrom, Kronum, Tarkwa, and Kumasi.
The suspects, who had long evaded arrest and were wanted by the Western Central Regional Police Command, are currently in custody and will be arraigned soon. The firearm is undergoing forensic and ballistic tests, while police continue efforts to apprehend other accomplices.
DSP Godwin Ahinayo, Head of Public Affairs for the Ashanti Regional Command, assured the public that the police remain committed to dismantling violent criminal networks. He urged residents to support investigations by sharing credible information.
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