Accra’s justice system has moved swiftly after one of the city’s most daring jewellery robberies in recent memory.
Two men accused of stealing gold items worth a staggering GH¢2 million from a popular shop in Westlands have been sent back to custody.
The Accra Circuit Court on Friday remanded Musa Abdul Aziz Mamoud, also known as Justin Martin, 34, a stock trader, and Donatus Kwame Donkor, 37, a carpenter. Both pleaded not guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit a crime and robbery. Mamoud faces two extra counts – causing unlawful damage and money laundering.
According to prosecutors, the carefully planned attack took place on 26 April 2025 at Berma Jewellery Shop in Westlands, near Haatso. Mamoud allegedly dressed the part of a robber – wearing a pullover, gloves and a mask – before riding a motorbike straight to the scene.
Donkor is said to have played a key supporting role by distracting the security guard at the entrance.
Once inside, Mamoud reportedly overpowered the guard, sprayed pepper into his eyes, then did the same to a terrified shop attendant. With both victims temporarily blinded and incapacitated, he grabbed gold chains, pendants, earrings and bracelets, stuffed them into a bag, and sped off on the motorbike. Donkor allegedly acted as lookout during the getaway.
The victim, a trader based in Dome, reported the robbery to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID). Police intelligence eventually led them to Mamoud.
He was arrested on 24 March 2026 at his residence in Anyaa Market. A search of his home turned up damning evidence: masks, a hammer, pepper spray, a toy gun, a crash helmet, assorted pieces of jewellery, a gold detector and a weighing scale.Just two days later, on 26 March 2026, Donkor was arrested at his home in Osu. Police also recovered the motorbike believed to have been used in the heist.
Prosecutors told the court that Mamoud had already sold part of the stolen gold to an unknown buyer and used some of the money to buy himself a Toyota FJ Cruiser before his arrest.
The case has shocked many in Accra’s business community. Jewellery shops are often soft targets, but the sheer value involved – GH¢2 million in a single swift raid – has left traders worried about their safety.Assistant Superintendent of Police Emmanuel Haligah, leading the prosecution, asked the court to remand the two men while investigations continue. The judge agreed and ordered the prosecution to file witness statements and disclosures before the next hearing on 13 April 2026.For the victims and their families, today’s court appearance brings a small sense of relief after nearly a year of waiting. The stolen gold represented years of hard work and investment. Many in the jewellery trade are now calling for tighter security around shops and faster police action when such robberies occur.
This case highlights how quickly police can act when good intelligence is available. From the initial report to arrests within days of focused investigation, the CID has shown determination to recover the stolen items and bring the suspects to justice.Outside the courtroom, the two accused maintained their innocence. Their lawyers will now prepare for what promises to be a closely watched trial. If convicted, they could face long prison terms.
For now, the two men remain in police custody as the wheels of justice turn. The people of Accra – especially those in the bustling jewellery business – will be watching closely to see whether the full GH¢2 million haul can be recovered and whether the culprits are held fully accountable.