The Ghana Police Service (GPS) has dismantled a dangerous criminal syndicate known as 'Duku Syndicate', responsible for a string of violent carjackings across the Ashanti and Western Central regions. 

In a press briefing held at the Ashanti Regional Police Headquarters in Kumasi, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, confirmed the arrest of four suspects and the death of the gang’s leader following an intensive intelligence-led operation.

The crackdown follows the tragic murder of Mr Andrews Amankwah on February 10, 2026. 

Mr Amankwah was shot at Ohwim Tigo Junction in Kumasi by armed men who snatched his Toyota Hilux pickup. 

Despite being rushed to the hospital, he succumbed to his injuries. 

The IGP stated that no matter how far criminals run or hide, the police will continue to dismantle their activities and bring them to justice.

The investigation, which involved the Anti-Robbery Unit and the Cyber Vetting Team, saw its first major breakthrough on February 18, 2026, with the arrest of 47-year-old farmer, Akwasi Manu, who was found in possession of the deceased's mobile phone. 

He has since been remanded by the Asokwa Circuit Court. 

This was followed by the apprehension of 33-year-old Bashiru Tanko aka TK at Atonsu High School Junction on February 19. 

Two additional suspects, 35-year-old Kwadwo Amponsah aka "Kamakazi,” and 38-year-old Emmanuel Kwame Appiah aka "Taller", were arrested on February 21 and 22 at Hwereso and the Danyame Soldier Barracks, respectively. 

The suspected gang leader, 42-year-old Eric Antwi Duku, died from gunshot wounds sustained during the police operation.

According to the IGP, the syndicate specialised in stealing black and ash-colored high-end vehicles, specifically pickups and Land Cruisers. 

Their operations were highly organised and involved cross-border trade, with stolen vehicles reportedly sold to a contact in Paga. 

The gang also maintained contacts in Dubai, where the leader would often travel with his wife to relax after successful robberies. 

IGP said the group allegedly worked with collaborators at the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) to secure fraudulent vehicle documentation.

The gang was already on the wanted list of the Western Central Regional Police Command for similar crimes in Tarkwa. 

IGP Yohuno expressed his condolences to the Amankwah family and thanked President John D. Mahama for providing the logistics necessary for such high-stakes operations. 

He sent a stern warning to criminals and promised that the police would leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of justice.