Police in Kumasi have arrested a suspected leader of a car-snatching syndicate during an intelligence-led operation, while two other alleged members of the gang were shot dead in an exchange of fire with officers.
The suspect, identified as William Opoku, popularly known as “Father Blessing,” was picked up at Ahwiaa in the Ashanti Region following surveillance on suspected hideouts linked to the criminal network.
According to police reports, the arrest formed part of a broader operation targeting a gang allegedly responsible for multiple vehicle thefts and violent attacks on motorists within Kumasi and surrounding areas.
Police say Opoku, during interrogation, admitted involvement in several car-snatching incidents and allegedly led officers to locations where stolen vehicles had been concealed or repaired.
He is also said to have identified other members of the gang, triggering a follow-up operation that led to a deadly confrontation.
During the operation, officers reportedly encountered three suspected gang members who attempted to escape on an unregistered motorbike. Police say the suspects opened fire during the chase, prompting a return of fire from officers.
Two of the suspects sustained gunshot wounds and were later pronounced dead at the Bekwai Municipal Hospital, while a third suspect reportedly managed to escape and is currently on the run.
The police have indicated that efforts are underway to arrest remaining members of the syndicate and recover additional stolen vehicles as well as weapons allegedly used in the operations.
Authorities also confirmed that the arrested suspect remains in custody, assisting with investigations, while the bodies of the deceased have been deposited at the morgue for preservation and autopsy.
