A total of 64 suspects have been arrested for unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition during a special police operation at a lounge near Achimota Mile 7 in the Greater Accra Region.
The operation was conducted by the Office of the Special Operations Assistant to the Inspector-General of Police (SOA), in collaboration with the National SWAT Unit.
Operation Triggered by Residents’ Complaints
The raid followed complaints from residents about suspected criminal activities at the lounge and its surroundings, including the open display of firearms and their possible sale.
During the operation, officers identified a blue, unregistered Acura vehicle with a pistol holster inside. The vehicle was impounded and conveyed to the Police Headquarters for further investigation after no one at the scene claimed ownership of the holster.
Fake Police Officer Among Suspects
One of the suspects, Theophilus Ashon, presented himself as a Police officer attached to CID Operations. However, checks established that he was not a Police officer.
A search conducted on him led to the recovery of a Smith & Wesson pistol loaded with six rounds of 9mm ammunition.
Raid at Atico Yields More Weapons
Acting on further intelligence, the Police extended the operation to Atico, where another suspect, Michael Emmanuel Kingsley Mills, was arrested.
A search of his residence resulted in the recovery of three pump-action guns, four pistols, 62 AA and BB cartridges, 54 rounds of .40 calibre ammunition, and other exhibits.
Suspects in Custody
The suspects are currently in Police custody assisting with investigations and will be arraigned before court in due course.
By Gifty Boateng