The Ghana Police Service has foiled an alleged robbery attempt targeting three banks in the Labone area of Accra, arresting a Nigerian suspect identified as Augustine Okechuku Maazi.
Two other suspected members of the gang were shot dead during a gun battle with the police, while another suspect reportedly escaped.
The incident occurred on Thursday, August 13, 2026, after the police received intelligence at about 10:45 a.m. that a gang was allegedly planning to rob GCB Bank, Ecobank and Zenith Bank, all located in Labone.
Acting on the intelligence, the police deployed officers to the area, where they reportedly spotted suspected members of the gang in vehicles parked close to the banks.
According to the Ghana Police Service, one of the vehicles sped away after the suspects noticed the presence of the police. Officers pursued the vehicle and arrested Maazi, while another occupant reportedly escaped.
The police said occupants of a second vehicle also attempted to flee while firing at officers. The officers returned fire, resulting in a shootout in which two of the suspected robbers were killed.
Following the operation, the police recovered two vehicles allegedly used by the gang, as well as a pistol.
Maazi remains in police custody and is assisting investigators with inquiries into the alleged planned robbery.
The bodies of the two suspects killed during the exchange of gunfire have been deposited at a morgue for further examination.
The incident has again drawn attention to the conduct of some Nigerians involved in criminal activities abroad, which can negatively affect the reputation of Nigerians living and working overseas.
While criminal acts should be treated as the responsibility of the individuals involved, authorities may also need to strengthen measures that address transnational crime and protect the reputation and interests of law-abiding Nigerians abroad.
