Four suspects killed as Tema police foil Afienya-Mataheko robbery

The Tema Regional Police Command says it has thwarted a planned armed robbery at Afienya-Mataheko, leaving four suspected robbers dead after an exchange of gunfire with officers.

In a statement signed by ASP Dede Dzakpasu, Head of the Public Affairs Unit, police said the incident happened at about 1:00 a.m. on Monday, 29 December 2025, following days of targeted surveillance.

According to the release, the Police Intelligence Directorate in Tema first picked up information on Friday, 27 December, about a gang allegedly planning a series of armed attacks within the metropolis and nearby communities. In response, teams were deployed to key locations and suspects were closely monitored.

Officers on night patrol later spotted four men attempting to break into a house at Afienya-Mataheko. When they moved in to effect an arrest, the suspects reportedly opened fire, prompting police to return fire.

All four suspects were hit during the shootout. Three of them – identified as Kwabena Azuwebi (alias Lastman), Yaro Bawku and Faisal – were taken to the Police Hospital, where they were pronounced dead on arrival.

The fourth suspect, Kassim Hussein, was initially arrested after being re-apprehended and sent to hospital under guard, but later died while receiving treatment.

Police say the team recovered an AK-47 rifle, a Taurus pistol loaded with six rounds, two cutlasses, and two motorbikes – one without a registration number and another bearing M-25-GT-4243. All items have been kept as exhibits to support further investigations.

The bodies of the deceased have been deposited at the Police Hospital mortuary for preservation and autopsy.

The Tema Regional Police Command says it is pursuing other possible accomplices and has assured residents that preventive operations will continue. It is also appealing to the public to share timely, credible information to help clamp down on violent crime in the area.