The Accra Regional Police Command has arrested a key suspect believed to be behind a spate of motorbike thefts that have plagued several communities in the capital over the past month.
Addressing journalists at a press briefing in Accra today, Superintendent Juliana Obeng, Head of Public Affairs for the Accra Region, confirmed the arrest and provided details of an ongoing investigation targeting a larger motorbike theft syndicate operating across the city.
“On June 24, 2025, a resident of Madina reported to the Police that his red Royal motorbike, with registration number M-25-CW 367, had been stolen from his residence while he slept,” Superintendent Obeng stated.
“Following this report, our officers acted swiftly on intelligence, which led to the arrest of Emmanuel Akanpatiba, who was found in possession of the stolen motorbike.”
According to the police, the suspect admitted to stealing the motorbike and named his accomplice as Israel Fredrick Lomotey, who is currently on the run.
Further interrogation revealed that Akanpatiba and his associates are responsible for at least twelve motorbike thefts in the last month alone. Targeted areas include Madina, Adenta, Lapaz, and Teshie—localities that have recently seen an uptick in vehicle-related crimes.
Superintendent Obeng explained that the suspect disclosed details of how the operation was typically carried out.
“He indicated that they break the steering locks of motorbikes, usually during the night, and transport them to Agbogbloshie where they are sold. The stolen bikes are sold to known receivers, namely Nurudeen, Ali, and Inusah, who operate from the Agbogbloshie Onion Market,” she said.
The suspect told police investigators that the motorbikes are sold for amounts ranging between GHS 2,000 and GHS 3,000, depending on the year of registration.
The police have since launched a manhunt for the remaining suspects—Israel Fredrick Lomotey, Nurudeen, Ali, and Inusah—and are working to recover more of the stolen motorbikes linked to the syndicate.
Superintendent Obeng urged members of the public to remain vigilant. “We encourage residents to take extra precautions to secure their motorbikes and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station,” she noted.
“Anyone with information on the whereabouts of the suspects or knowledge about stolen motorbikes should reach out to the Police through our emergency lines 18555 or 192.”
The Accra Regional Police Command says it remains committed to dismantling criminal networks threatening public safety and is appealing to the public for continued cooperation in the fight against organized theft.
The suspect was arranged before Court and was remanded into Police custody to assist with investigation.