Police arrest key suspect in Accra motorbike theft ring

The Accra Regional Police Command has arrested a key suspect linked to a motorbike theft syndicate responsible for at least 12 stolen bikes across various parts of the city.

According to a police statement, the suspect, Emmanuel Akanpatiba, was apprehended on June 24 following a complaint from a resident in Madina, who reported that his red Royal motorbike had been stolen from his residence.

Acting on intelligence, police tracked the stolen bike to Akanpatiba, who, during interrogation, confessed to the theft. He also named his accomplice, Israel Fredrick Lomotey, who is currently on the run.

Further investigations revealed that the two were part of a broader criminal network operating in areas including Madina, Adenta, Lapaz, and Teshie.

Akanpatiba disclosed that the stolen bikes were typically taken to the Agbogbloshie Onion Market, where they were sold to known receivers identified as Nurudeen, Ali, and Inusah. He admitted to breaking the steering locks of the bikes before transporting them for sale.

The motorbikes, according to his confession, were sold for between GH¢2,000 and GH¢3,000, depending on the year and condition of the bike.

Police have assured the public that efforts are ongoing to arrest the remaining suspects and recover more stolen motorbikes.

Kwaku Antwi Boasiako