The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service has apprehended a suspect in Togo for the murder of 27-year-old car dealer Yaw Osei Ashitey Amma. The victim’s burnt body was discovered inside a vehicle at Atomic Junction on the Legon bypass road on April 7, 2026. The arrest, a result of international police collaboration, occurred on April 30, 2026, as the suspect attempted to dispose of the deceased’s mobile phone.
International manhunt leads to arrest
Director-General of the CID, DCOP Lydia Yaako Donkor, announced the arrest during a press briefing. The suspect, identified as Wisdom Tetteh, was apprehended in the Republic of Togo through an Interpol collaboration. He was subsequently handed over to Ghanaian authorities at the Aflao border and brought to CID headquarters.
This development marks a significant step in the investigation into the brutal murder that shocked the local community. The discovery of Amma’s body, severely burned within his vehicle, initially made identification challenging.
Deception and violence behind the crime
Preliminary investigations suggest a calculated plan by the suspect. Police revealed that Tetteh allegedly lured the deceased to his residence on April 6, 2026, under the pretense of a vehicle sale. It was at this location that the attack allegedly took place.
The victim reportedly sustained fatal head injuries. Following the assault, the suspect is accused of stealing the deceased’s Hyundai Elantra, valued at GH¢172,000. A partial payment of GH¢18,000 was reportedly received by the suspect.
Attempt to conceal evidence
In a further attempt to cover his tracks, the suspect allegedly transported Amma’s body to Atomic Junction. There, he reportedly removed the vehicle’s number plate before setting both the car and the body ablaze. This act aimed to destroy evidence and hinder the identification of the victim and the perpetrator.
DCOP Donkor confirmed that the severity of the burns made immediate identification difficult, necessitating the collection of DNA samples from relatives for conclusive confirmation of the deceased’s identity.
Ongoing investigations and suspect in custody
The suspect, Wisdom Tetteh, remains in police custody and is assisting with ongoing investigations. The CID is working to piece together the full sequence of events leading up to and following the murder.
The successful collaboration between Ghanaian and Togolese police, facilitated by Interpol, highlights the effectiveness of international cooperation in tackling cross-border criminal activities.
Implications for the automotive industry and public safety
This case raises concerns about safety within the car dealing industry, particularly concerning private sales and transactions conducted outside formal dealership settings. Potential buyers and sellers are urged to exercise increased caution and consider meeting in public, well-lit areas.
The incident also underscores the importance of robust international police cooperation for apprehending criminals who attempt to flee justice by crossing borders. As investigations continue, the focus will be on gathering further evidence to ensure a successful prosecution and prevent future occurrences. The public will be watching for updates on the legal proceedings and any new safety advisories issued by law enforcement.
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