The Ghana Police Service has arrested 186 suspects in a series of intelligence-led operations targeting organised crime in the Ashanti Region.

The operations were carried out between June 8 and June 17, 2026, by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Special Operations Team from the National Police Headquarters in collaboration with the Ashanti Regional Police Command.

According to the police, the operations formed part of efforts to identify, disrupt and dismantle criminal networks involved in human trafficking, sexual exploitation, narcotics trafficking, unlawful possession of firearms and related offences.

Acting on intelligence gathered through surveillance, target profiling and operational planning, police conducted coordinated raids at Asafo, Kenyase Aframa, Asokwa, Buokrom, Krofrom, Atonsu-Bokuro, Asawase and Old Tafo Ahenbronum.

The operations led to the arrest of 186 suspects, comprising 86 Ghanaians, 96 Nigerians and four Togolese nationals.

Police said a major breakthrough was recorded on June 9 at Kenyase Aframa, where an intelligence-led operation resulted in the arrest of Gladys Ibrahim, also known as “Mama Gee”, together with 96 Nigerian nationals and four Togolese nationals.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects are linked to a transnational criminal network involved in human trafficking, sexual exploitation, narcotics trafficking and other organised criminal activities.

Several persons believed to be victims of exploitation were rescued during the operation. Police said some of the victims were minors and were separated from the suspects and placed under protective care in line with child protection procedures.

Foreign nationals identified as victims are being processed in collaboration with the Ghana Immigration Service for the necessary immigration and repatriation procedures.

Police said investigations are ongoing to identify and arrest other members of the criminal network. The suspects remain in police custody or are assisting with investigations.

The Ghana Police Service said it remains committed to intelligence-led policing and will continue operations aimed at combating organised crime and ensuring public safety.