Atebubu, Bono East Region – Eight individuals have been apprehended by the Ghana Police Service in connection with the February 25, 2026, killing of the Queenmother of Abamba, Nana Serwaa Gyan Kuma. The arrests follow a year-long intelligence-led operation that culminated in a significant breakthrough after interrogations of suspects arrested for robbery in Kasoa.
Investigation Breakthrough
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohonu, announced the arrests, highlighting the police service’s ongoing commitment to tackling violent and online crimes across the nation. He stated that intensified operations in the Atebubu area have disrupted criminal activities, leading to multiple arrests, with some suspects engaging police in shootouts.
The breakthrough in the Queenmother’s murder case reportedly came when Abdul Razak Ibrahim Langa, alias Zak, a suspect arrested for robbery preparation, confessed his involvement. Langa allegedly disclosed his presence at the scene of the crime and subsequently identified Nana Yaw Bediako, alias Nana Yaw, as the alleged shooter.
Alleged Plot and Motive
Further investigations, including confessions from Bediako, led police to Nana Owusu Sankofi II, the chief of Akokoa, who is accused of contracting the murder for a sum of GH¢50,000. The motive is suspected to be linked to disputes over land and traditional leadership in Abamba.
An inmate at Ankaful Maximum Security Prison, Ishaku Alhassan, alias Sule Yagani, has also been implicated as an intermediary in the plot. Additional arrests include Raymond Agyemang Darko, the Abakomahene of Akokoa, and Bukari Amadu, a driver. Currently, five main suspects are in police custody, while three others have been remanded by the Techiman District Court.
Details of the Attack
Nana Serwaa Gyan Kuma, who also managed a restaurant named Ohema’s Kitchen, was attacked at her residence shortly after returning home from work on February 25, 2026. She was reportedly shot multiple times as she alighted from her vehicle. Responding officers discovered her body and recovered three spent 9mm cartridges. A post-mortem examination on May 23, 2026, by Dr. Ernest Boakye confirmed that the cause of death was massive hemorrhage resulting from gunshot wounds.
Financial Trail and Communication
Investigators are pursuing a financial trail, suggesting the murder was orchestrated through intermediaries with funds transferred via mobile money. Approximately GH¢21,000 was allegedly used to purchase a pistol and ammunition, with further payments made post-killing. Forensic analysis of mobile phones reportedly revealed communication between key suspects before and after the crime, utilizing a SIM card procured specifically for the operation.
Crime Scene Reconstruction and Further Arrests
On May 19, a joint police team escorted suspects to Atebubu for a crime scene reconstruction. During this exercise, the suspects allegedly reenacted the attack, explaining how they ambushed the Queenmother and followed her home before opening fire. They reportedly fled to a hotel near the Atebubu market before traveling to Accra the following morning.
Attempted Bribery
During the arrest of Nana Owusu Sankofi II, the chief of Akokoa, he allegedly attempted to bribe the arresting officers with GH¢200,000 to avoid detention, making an initial payment of GH¢100,000, which has been seized as evidence.
Ongoing Operations
The IGP reiterated that these operations are essential to ensure that law-abiding citizens can live without fear of criminal attacks. He emphasized that such operations will continue to maintain peace and security in the region.
Future Watch
The focus now shifts to the judicial process for the eight arrested suspects. Authorities will be closely monitoring further developments in the case, including the full recovery of all involved parties and the prosecution of those accused. The ongoing efforts by the police to combat violent crime and ensure justice for victims like Nana Serwaa Gyan Kuma will likely continue to be a key area of public interest in the Bono East Region and beyond.
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