The Ghana Police Service has arrested two businessmen in the Ashanti Region for alleged illicit trafficking in arms and ammunition, in violation of Section 192A of the Criminal Offenses Act, 1960 (Act 29).

Speaking at a press briefing, COP Lydia Donkor, Director-General of the CID, said the Anti-Armed Robbery Unit of the CID Headquarters picked up intelligence in early January 2026 that individuals were illegally trading arms in the region, supplying weapons to various buyers, including criminal elements.

After months of surveillance, police arrested the first suspect, Christopher Kupini, 63, of Ipwa Nanakketua, on July 15, 2026. During interrogation, he admitted to the offence and named Pabnatemia as his main supplier.

Further investigations led to the arrest of Pabnatemia, 56, of Asopia Kokovin. A search on him yielded five pistols, including a Malik, Walter PK 380, Smith and Wesson, Stoga STR series, and Taurus G2C loaded with five rounds. Police also recovered three additional magazines, 100 rounds of 9mm live ammunition, and 20 rounds of 0.380 auto PPU live ammunition.

COP Donkor said Pabnatemia confessed to operating the illegal arms business for 10 years without a licence. He disclosed that he had clients across the country who bought weapons from him without documentation.

Both suspects are in police custody assisting investigations. COP Donkor said efforts are underway to arrest identified accomplices and trace sources of supply.

“The illegal possession, sale, and trafficking in firearms is a serious criminal offence and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” she warned.

She expressed appreciation to the Inspector General of Police for his support.

Report by Bernard K Dadzie Greater Accra Region