The Upper East Regional Police Command, in partnership with the Inspector-General of Police’s Special Operations Team, apprehended 80 individuals during a significant anti-crime exercise conducted across multiple communities between May 25 and June 3, 2026. The operation targeted known criminal hotspots, aiming to reduce illicit activities and enhance regional security.
Operation Targets Criminal Hotspots
The intelligence-led operation focused on areas identified as having high criminal activity. These included Zuarungu, Bolgatanga, Tongo, Bongo, and sections of the Nabdam District. Police officials stated the exercise was a proactive measure to combat rising crime rates and improve the overall safety and security landscape of the Upper East Region.
Breakdown of Arrests and Seizures
During the multi-day operation, police made significant arrests in various locations. In Zuarungu, 12 suspects, including eight men and four women, were detained. Among the women arrested were three Nigerian nationals and one Ghanaian citizen. The Bongo area saw the largest number of arrests, with 34 individuals, comprising 32 males and two females, taken into custody. Operations in Pelungu, Kongo, and Nangodi within the Nabdam District resulted in the arrest of 14 suspects, including 12 men and two women. An additional 20 suspects were apprehended in Bolgatanga.
Preliminary investigations indicate that a substantial number of those arrested are allegedly involved in the sale and use of narcotic substances. Other criminal activities are also under scrutiny as the investigation progresses.
Significant Recoveries Made
The police operation yielded a considerable amount of confiscated items across the targeted areas. In Tongo, seized items included a motorcycle, quantities of substances believed to be Indian hemp (marijuana), assorted foreign cigarettes, and male condoms. Law enforcement in Bongo recovered three rounds of 5.56×45mm NATO ammunition and two motorbikes.
Further seizures were made in the Nabdam District, where police found parcels and sacks containing dried leaves suspected to be narcotic substances. Also recovered were assorted drinks with suspected narcotic content, an unregistered motorbike, foreign cigarettes, and components of a casino jackpot machine. In Bolgatanga, the police confiscated dried leaves believed to be Indian hemp, assorted cigarettes, and several motorbikes, including a Yamaha Sirius (M-19-UE 2688), a Luojia (M-13-UE 7181), and an unregistered Haojue. A casino jackpot machine was also seized in this area.
Suspects in Custody, Legal Process Underway
All 80 individuals arrested remain in police custody. They are expected to be processed for court proceedings as the investigations continue. The police statement emphasized the ongoing nature of the inquiry, suggesting that further developments may emerge.
Implications for Regional Security
The successful execution of this large-scale operation by the Upper East Regional Police Command and the IGP’s Special Operations Team signals a robust commitment to tackling crime. The recovery of narcotics, ammunition, and other illicit items highlights the multifaceted nature of criminal activities in the region.
The focus on intelligence-led tactics suggests a strategic approach to law enforcement, aiming for more effective disruption of criminal networks. The increased police presence and decisive action are intended to deter future criminal behavior and restore a greater sense of security for residents. Law enforcement agencies will likely continue to monitor these identified hotspots and potentially expand similar operations to other areas facing security challenges. The public can expect continued efforts to combat drug trafficking, illegal substance use, and other associated crimes that impact community well-being.
Leave a Reply