191 suspects arrested in joint Police-Military Operation at Ehi following mob attack

By Michael Foli Jackidy, GNA 

Ho (V/R), Nov 13, GNA – The Volta Regional Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 191 suspects, comprising 190 men and one woman, during a dawn joint police-military operation at Ehi and surrounding communities in the Ketu North Municipality. 

The swoop followed a recent mob attack on police officers in the area. 

Chief Inspector Francis Gomado, speaking on behalf of the Regional Police Command at a press briefing in Ho, said the operation was launched in direct response to the violent assault on officers and the destruction of property at the Ehi Police Station earlier this month. 

“On November 5, the Regional Police Command issued a press release concerning the mob attack at Ehi. In response, a swoop was organized this dawn to apprehend suspected perpetrators. As we speak, we have 191 suspects in custody,” he said. 

He revealed that some individuals believed to be connected to the incident fled the community shortly after the attack, adding that the police were pursuing leads to apprehend them.  

“It clearly means they have questions to answer. We couldn’t get them today, but we are on the lookout and will get them soon,” he assured. 

Chief Inspector Gomado described the operation as peaceful, noting that the suspects were currently being screened to identify those directly involved in the attack.  

“At the end of the screening, the number will be pruned down, and appropriate charges will be filed against those found culpable,” he stated. 

He recounted that during the mob attack, two police vehicles, office equipment, and station property were vandalized and burnt, causing significant damage to the police administration. 

“The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) is working tirelessly to retool the station and deploy more personnel to restore law and order in Ehi,” he disclosed. 

Chief Inspector Gomado emphasized that security operations were not meant to intimidate civilians but to ensure public safety. 

He appealed to community members to view police officers as partners in maintaining peace. 

“Security officers are not enemies. They are posted to protect your lives and property. Attacking them endangers your own safety because if they cannot protect themselves, how can they protect you?” he asked. 

He warned that the police would not tolerate any further attacks on law enforcement officers and would ensure that perpetrators face justice. 

Meanwhile, Chief Inspector Gomado disclosed that three police officers, including the Ehi District Commander who sustained injuries during the attack, had been treated and discharged, while a civilian suspect who was also injured remained under police guard at St. Anthony Hospital receiving treatment. 

Earlier, the Ghana Armed Forces issued a statement signed by Naval Captain Veronica Adzo Arhin, Acting Director General of Public Relations, announcing a joint police-military operation in the Volta, Ashanti, and Ahafo Regions. 

The operation is aimed at addressing recent violent attacks on security officers and other state officials carrying out their lawful duties. 

GNA 

Edited By: Maxwell Awumah/Christian Akorlie