Two suspected armed robbers have been shot dead following a gun battle with police in the Ashanti Region after officers moved in to stop what authorities say was a planned robbery attack.
According to police reports, the Ashanti South Regional Police Command acted on intelligence that a group of armed men had gathered in a bush near the Antoakrom–Manso Nkwanta road, allegedly preparing to attack commuters and motorists using the route.
A team of officers was quickly dispatched to the area to intercept the suspects. However, upon encountering the police, the suspects reportedly opened fire in an attempt to escape, leading to an exchange of gunfire between the two sides.
During the confrontation, two of the suspects were shot and sustained serious injuries. They were later transported to the Bekwai Municipal Hospital, where medical personnel pronounced them dead on arrival.
Police identified the deceased suspects as Usmaro Mohammed and Yaw Frimpong, also known as Nana Yaw. Two other suspects managed to escape into the bush during the shootout and are currently being pursued by the police.
A search conducted at the scene led to the recovery of several weapons and items believed to have been used by the robbery gang. These included an AK-47 rifle loaded with 15 rounds of ammunition, a pump-action gun with four cartridges, additional live cartridges, and a black bag containing more ammunition.
Police also impounded a Toyota Voxy vehicle, which investigators believe was used by the suspects in carrying out their criminal activities.
Preliminary investigations suggest the group may be connected to several robbery incidents in parts of the Ashanti Region, including attacks in Manso, Obuasi, Nyinahini, and Sefwi. Authorities say the suspects were part of a larger network with accomplices operating in different parts of the country.
Meanwhile, police say investigations are ongoing to identify and arrest the remaining suspects who escaped during the operation.
