The Ashanti Regional Police Command has arrested two prime suspects linked to a series of armed attacks on Mobile Money (MoMo) vendors in the Asokwa Municipality, bringing relief to business operators in the enclave following recent security concerns.

The Regional Anti-Robbery Team carried out the arrests in collaboration with the Municipal and Divisional Police Commands following intelligence-led operations.

​Speaking to Kumasi FM's Elisha Adarkwah at an exhibition showcasing the newly transformed and modern Assembly Hall of the Asokwa Municipal Assembly today, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Asokwa, Amoh Kamel, confirmed the arrests. He assured residents that normal business activities can resume safely.

​The suspects are believed to be behind recent robbery pickups targeting MoMo vendors operating around Kaase and Ahensan Estate.

​"Our prime suspects were arrested yesterday by the regional anti-robbery team with the support of our municipal and divisional police commanders," the MCE stated. 

"We are currently awaiting an official briefing from the Ashanti Regional Police Command, but I can confirm that the two key suspects behind these incidents are in custody," he added.

​Addressing the root cause of the recent crime wave, the MCE explained that the influx of criminal elements into the municipality followed recent decongestion and evacuation exercises conducted by the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) around the Asafo Market area.

​The dispersal of individuals from the area pushed several displaced groups across the Greater Kumasi area, contributing to isolated security breaches in neighbouring districts like Asokwa.

​In response to the incidents, the Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) convened a series of emergency security meetings to strategise on countermeasures, resulting in intensified security arrangements across vulnerable zones.

​"As the head of municipal security, I have stepped up security operations and police patrols across the municipality," the MCE added, stating, "residents and business owners can freely go about their daily activities without fear. Everything is under control."