The Upper West Regional Police Command has arrested a 38-year-old woman, Abena Martha Maanibeh, for allegedly abducting a one-week-old baby and stealing valuables from the child’s mother at Wa Market, also known as Kejetia.
The incident occurred on August 10, 2025. Police investigations revealed that Maanibeh, who had posed as a caretaker at the Wa Regional Hospital, befriended the baby’s mother, Ms. Kwofie Mwinbelle, shortly after she delivered on August 1.
According to investigators, the suspect lured Ms. Mwinbelle to the market under the guise of helping her buy diapers. She then fled with the newborn and the victim’s handbag, which contained cash, a phone, and other personal items.
A swift operation led by ASP Stella Atukwia of the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) resulted in Maanibeh’s arrest on August 15 at her hideout in Nuobollie, a community in the Savannah Region.
Police confirmed that the baby was safely rescued and reunited with his mother, while some of the stolen items were also recovered.
Maanibeh appeared before the Wa District Magistrate Court on August 18 and was remanded into custody. She is expected to reappear on September 2, 2025.
The Regional Police Command has assured the public of its commitment to protecting lives and property and praised residents for the vigilance and cooperation that contributed to the suspect’s arrest.
Read the full statement below:
