The Ghana Police Service has foiled an alleged robbery attempt targeting three banks in the Labone area of Accra, arresting a Nigerian national and killing two suspected robbers during a gun battle.
The arrested suspect was identified as Augustine Okechuku Maazi, who is currently in police custody and assisting investigators with inquiries into the alleged planned robbery.
The incident occurred on Thursday, August 13, 2026, after the Ghana Police Service received intelligence at about 10:45 a.m. that an armed gang was allegedly preparing to attack GCB Bank, Ecobank and Zenith Bank, all located in Labone.
According to the Police, a team was immediately deployed to the area. Upon arrival, officers reportedly spotted members of the suspected gang in vehicles parked close to the banks.
The Police said one of the vehicles sped away after its occupants sighted the officers. The vehicle was pursued, leading to the arrest of Maazi, while another occupant reportedly escaped.
A second vehicle allegedly attempted to flee while its occupants opened fire at the pursuing officers.
“The robbers in the second vehicle also tried to escape amidst firing,” the Ghana Police Service said in a statement.
The Police subsequently engaged the suspects in a shootout, during which two of the alleged robbers were fatally wounded.
Two vehicles believed to have been used by the suspected gang were recovered following the operation, while a pistol was also reportedly seized.
The bodies of the two deceased suspects have been deposited at a morgue for further examination.
The Ghana Police Service said investigations are ongoing, with Maazi remaining in custody as officers work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the alleged robbery plot and identify other persons connected to the operation.
The incident has also renewed concerns over the conduct of some Nigerians involved in criminal activities abroad, although the actions of individual suspects should not be used to portray Nigerians generally as criminals. Authorities and community leaders have continued to face the broader challenge of addressing crimes involving nationals overseas while protecting the reputation of law-abiding Nigerians.
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