The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Special Operations Team, working together with the Ashanti Regional Police Command, has arrested 186 suspects during a series of intelligence-led operations targeting organised crime across the Ashanti Region.
The operations, conducted between June 8 and June 17, 2026, formed part of a coordinated effort to dismantle criminal networks allegedly involved in human trafficking, sexual exploitation, narcotics trafficking, unlawful possession of firearms and other related offences.
According to a statement issued by the Ashanti Regional Police Public Affairs Unit on Monday, the operations were carried out in several communities, including Asafo, Kenyase Aframa, Asokwa, Buokrom, Krofrom, Atonsu-Bokuro, Asawase and Old Tafo Ahenbronum.
Police said the exercise led to the arrest of 186 suspects made up of 86 Ghanaians, 96 Nigerians and four Togolese nationals.
A major breakthrough in the operation occurred on June 9 at Kenyase Aframa, where intelligence-led action resulted in the arrest of Gladys Ibrahim, popularly known as “Mama Gee,” together with 96 Nigerian nationals and four Togolese nationals.
Preliminary investigations, according to the police, indicate that the suspects may be 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. Some of the victims were identified as minors and were immediately separated from the suspects and placed under protective care in accordance with child protection protocols.
Foreign nationals identified as victims are currently being processed in collaboration with the Ghana Immigration Service to facilitate the necessary immigration and repatriation procedures.
“The operations formed part of a strategic effort aimed at identifying, disrupting and dismantling criminal networks involved in human trafficking, sexual exploitation, narcotics trafficking, unlawful possession of firearms and other related criminal activities,” the police statement said.
The police further disclosed that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend additional members of the suspected criminal network.
“All suspects remain in police custody or are assisting with investigations,” the statement noted.
The Ashanti Regional Police Command commended the professionalism and dedication of the IGP Special Operations Team and officers involved in the operation.
“The Ghana Police Service remains resolute in its commitment to intelligence-led policing and will continue to undertake sustained operations to combat organised crime and ensure the safety and security of all persons in the country,” the statement added.
