The Ashanti South Regional Police Command has intercepted a large consignment of suspected narcotic substances and arrested a commercial driver during a routine snap-check operation at Asanso in the Ashanti South Region.

Addressing the media on January 28, 2026, ACP Cephas Arthur, Deputy Regional Commander of the Ashanti South Police Command, stated that the arrest was made on Monday, January 26, 2026, by officers from the Bekwai District Command while conducting routine snap-checks along the Bekwai–Aputuogya road.

At about 7:30 p.m., the police intercepted a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter bus with registration number AC 71825. A search revealed nine (9) nylon sacks containing seven hundred and thirteen (713) slabs of compressed dried leaves, suspected to be Indian hemp.

The driver, Atampugri Akanyani, 50, told police that the consignment was handed to him by an unknown person at the Kejetia Lorry Station in Kumasi and was to be delivered to another unknown individual in Obuasi for a fee of GH¢600.00.

ACP Arthur confirmed that the seized substances have been retained as exhibits to aid further investigations and that the vehicle has been impounded. The driver has since been arraigned in court for the necessary legal action.

He emphasised that the Ashanti South Police Command remains resolute in its fight against drug trafficking and other criminal activities, warning that the region is a no-go area for criminal operations. The command reassured the public of its commitment to maintaining peace and security through intensified snap-check operations and intelligence-led policing.

In a separate incident, the Ashanti South Regional Police Command issued a stern warning following a violent mob attack on police officers at Bepotenten Sukuum in the Amansie Central District.

ACP Arthur explained that on Friday, January 23, 2026, a four-member patrol team from the Jacobu District Command encountered a 15-year-old boy wielding a pump-action gun during a routine patrol. The officers questioned the boy, seized the weapon, and instructed him to inform the owner to produce the necessary documentation.

While returning from the patrol, the team was ambushed by a mob of about one hundred (100) youths, armed with cutlasses, cudgels, and firearms. The mob blocked the road and attacked the officers.

“In the ensuing confrontation, one of the attackers snatched an AK-47 assault rifle from a police officer and attempted to flee,” ACP Arthur said. Acting professionally and in accordance with rules of engagement, the officers responded.

The suspect was incapacitated and, unfortunately, lost his life. The rifle was successfully recovered.

Another suspect, Alex Konadu, 23, from Dominase in the Central Region, sustained injuries but initially escaped. He was later arrested at Greenfield Hospital in Sefwi Bekwai, Western North Region, where he sought medical treatment. He has been charged with assault on a public officer and rioting.

Investigations revealed that the deceased suspect was Jacob Gbatag, 22, from the Upper West Region, but a resident of Dominase, Central Region.

ACP Arthur warned the public that attacks on police officers will be met with lawful force and reassured residents that the Ashanti South Police Command remains committed to maintaining peace and security, emphasising that criminals have no safe haven in the region.