In a shocking incident that has gripped the residents of Atebubu in the Bono East Region of Ghana, a robber believed to be a foreign national was apprehended by local citizens for allegedly robbing people at knifepoint.
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The suspect, initially believed to be a Nigerian, reportedly denied his nationality during questioning, insisting he is a Ghanaian from Ejura.
The alleged robber was caught red-handed after a series of complaints from residents about frequent mobile phone thefts and personal robberies, particularly in the early evening hours. According to eyewitness reports, the suspect had used a knife to threaten his victims, forcing them to surrender their belongings, including mobile phones and wallets.
Arrest by Vigilant Residents
The suspect was caught on Monday evening, August 5, 2025, by a group of vigilant residents who had been on high alert following a recent rise in petty crimes across the township. After a short chase, the man was apprehended and restrained by locals who quickly gathered at the scene.
“We’ve been monitoring his movements for days after several people complained about being robbed in the same area,” said one of the residents who helped in the arrest. “He tried to escape but we chased him down and caught him with a knife and two stolen phones.”
Alleged Nationality Sparks Controversy
Upon his arrest, the crowd questioned the suspect about his background. Initially reluctant to speak, he later denied being Nigerian, a nationality many assumed due to his accent and unfamiliar presence in the community.
“I am not a Nigerian,” the suspect reportedly said. “I am a Ghanaian from Ejura.” His claim, however, has been met with skepticism by residents who are demanding a thorough investigation into his true identity and criminal background.
Some community members expressed concern over what they described as a growing pattern of cross-border petty crimes, alleging that some foreigners enter Ghana and engage in criminal activities under false identities.
Knife Found as Evidence
The suspect was found with a sharpened kitchen knife, believed to have been used in the robberies, along with two smartphones which have since been identified by victims who were present at the scene. The items were confiscated and handed over to the Atebubu Police along with the suspect.
Police sources confirm that the man is currently in custody and will be processed for court following preliminary investigations. They have urged the public to remain calm and allow the legal system to determine the facts of the case.
Community Calls for Tighter Security
In the wake of the arrest, many Atebubu residents are calling on law enforcement to increase police patrols and install more security checkpoints, particularly during nighttime hours. Some are also urging the Municipal Assembly to implement street lighting projects in robbery-prone areas to deter criminal activities.
“Our safety must come first,” one resident said. “These things are becoming too frequent, and it is affecting our peace of mind. We need the authorities to act swiftly before someone loses their life.”
National Debate on Immigration and Crime
This incident has sparked a larger conversation on social media and radio discussions about immigration, crime, and profiling. While many believe in welcoming visitors from neighboring countries, others argue that stricter immigration enforcement is necessary to maintain public order and security.
Human rights advocates, however, warn against the stigmatization of foreigners, urging authorities and citizens to refrain from assumptions based on nationality. “Crime knows no nationality. Let the police investigate and charge based on evidence, not rumor,” one commentator stated.
The incident in Atebubu is a stark reminder of the challenges communities face with rising urban crime, especially involving mobile phone theft and robbery. As investigations continue into the suspect’s true identity and past offenses, residents remain hopeful that the authorities will bring justice and enhance safety in the region.
The Atebubu Police have assured the public of a transparent process, urging any victims or witnesses to come forward with relevant information to aid in the case. Meanwhile, calls for increased security presence in the town continue to grow as residents seek to reclaim their sense of safety.
