Omanghana
Police have arrested five suspected members of a notorious gold robbery syndicate following an intelligence-led operation that left another alleged gang member dead.
The group is suspected of carrying out highway ambushes, invading small-scale mining concessions and attacking licensed gold buyers and couriers transporting valuable consignments.
According to the police, specialized units launched the operation after receiving credible intelligence about the syndicate’s activities and location.
Officers reportedly encountered the armed suspects at their hideout, where members of the group allegedly opened fire on the police.
The officers returned fire, injuring one of the suspects. He was transported to a medical facility for treatment but was later pronounced dead.
Five other suspects were subdued and taken into custody to assist with further investigations.
A search of the hideout reportedly led to the recovery of assault rifles, pump-action shotguns, handguns and several rounds of live ammunition.
Police also seized ballistic vests, communication radios, face masks and surveillance equipment believed to have been used during the gang’s operations.
Other items recovered included unrefined gold concentrates, significant amounts of local and foreign currency and several unregistered vehicles suspected to have served as getaway cars.
The five detained suspects are expected to be arraigned on charges including conspiracy to commit robbery, robbery and possession of firearms without lawful authority.
Investigators are also expanding the operation to identify alleged financiers, illegal gold dealers and black-market buyers suspected of purchasing stolen gold or providing logistical support to the syndicate.
Police authorities have assured mining companies, gold traders and residents of mining communities that security operations will continue along major mining corridors and commercial transport routes.
Mining operators, gold aggregators and couriers have been advised to strengthen security around their activities and report suspicious movements promptly to the police.
Source: Omanghana
