The Ashanti Regional Police Command has arrested eight persons for allegedly luring unsuspecting members of the public into fraudulent gambling activities and stealing their personal belongings.

In a press statement signed by the Head of the Public Affairs Unit, DSP Godwin Ahianyo, on March 2, 2026, the Command said intelligence gathered indicated that a group of young persons had assembled at Adehyeman in Kumasi and were engaging in illegal gambling activities.

“The suspects were reportedly deceiving unsuspecting victims into participating in the game and, in the process, stealing their money and other personal effects.

“Acting swiftly on the intelligence, a team of officers from the Police Intelligence Directorate (RPID) was dispatched to the scene. The team arrested the following suspects while they were actively engaging in the illegal activity: Akwasi Atakari, 36; Mandela Peprah, 31; Ernest Oduro, 28; Joseph Odoom, 31; Augustine Agyemang, 24; Eric Addo, 33; Dorcas Atanga, 22; and Agnes Baser, 21,” the statement said.

The statement further disclosed that a total sum of GH¢15,260.00, suspected to be proceeds of crime, was retrieved from the suspects.

“They have been cautioned and their investigation statements obtained. They are currently in police custody assisting with further investigations. The cash exhibit has been retained at the station for evidential purposes,” it added.

According to DSP Godwin Ahianyo, the suspects have since been arraigned before court.

He added: “The Regional Command wishes to caution members of the public to be vigilant and avoid engaging in street gambling or similar unsolicited games, especially those organised in open spaces by unknown persons.

“Such activities are often orchestrated to defraud and steal from unsuspecting victims. The public is further encouraged to promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or call the Police emergency numbers (191/18555) for immediate assistance. The Ashanti Regional Police Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents and will continue to clamp down on criminal activities within the region.”