A Nigerian national, identified as Augustine Okechuku Maazi, has been arrested by the Ghana Police Service after officers reportedly foiled an alleged robbery attempt targeting three banks in the Labone area of Accra.
According to a statement by the Ghana Police Service, officers received intelligence at about 10:45 a.m. on Thursday, August 13, that a gang of suspected robbers was preparing to attack GCB Bank, Ecobank and Zenith Bank, all located in Labone.
Acting swiftly on the intelligence, the police deployed officers to the area, where the suspected gang members were allegedly spotted in two vehicles parked close to the banks.
The situation reportedly took a dramatic turn when the suspects sighted the police.
The police said one of the vehicles immediately sped off in an attempt to escape, prompting officers to give chase. One suspect, identified as Maazi, was eventually arrested, while another occupant reportedly escaped.
The occupants of the second vehicle also allegedly attempted to flee while firing at the police, triggering a shootout.
According to the police, two suspects were killed during the exchange of gunfire.
The operation also led to the recovery of two vehicles—a Toyota Highlander with registration number GS-1434-18 and a Hyundai Tucson with registration number GS-7915-17—as well as a blow pistol.
The Ghana Police Service said Maazi remains in custody and is assisting with the ongoing investigation.
Meanwhile, the bodies of the two deceased suspects have been deposited at the morgue for preservation, identification and autopsy as investigations continue into the alleged robbery plot.
