The Ghana Police Service has arrested three suspected members of a taxi-based phone snatching syndicate, commonly referred to in criminal parlance as “City Bugu,” following an intelligence-led operation.
The suspects, identified as Sasu Lawrence, also known as Agbe; Richard Osei; and Charles Kofi Nti, also known as Survivor, were arrested on 12th January 2026 for their alleged roles in the organised theft of mobile phones and other valuables from unsuspecting members of the public.
Addressing the media at a press briefing held today at the Police Headquarters, the Director of Police Operations, DCOP Mr. Theodore Hlormenu, said the arrests form part of sustained police efforts to dismantle criminal networks exploiting public transport systems to commit crime.
“Preliminary investigations have established that the suspects operate mainly in the early hours of the day, posing as commercial taxi drivers in search of passengers,” DCOP Hlormenu stated.
He explained that the syndicate typically operates with three persons in a vehicle, with two suspects seated in the front and one at the back. According to police investigations, once a victim mostly women boards the taxi, the suspects deliberately lock the doors, making it difficult for the passenger to alight.
“While the victim struggles to open the door, the suspect seated at the back pretends to assist, but in the process allegedly steals the victim’s mobile phone or wallet,” the Director of Police Operations revealed.
DCOP Hlormenu noted that the modus operandi, popularly known as City Bugu, has been a source of public concern, particularly in urban centres, and assured that the Police Service is intensifying surveillance and intelligence operations to curb the practice.
The suspects are currently in police custody assisting with investigations, while efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest receivers and dealers of the stolen items, as well as other accomplices linked to the syndicate.
The Ghana Police Service has advised the public, especially commuters, to remain vigilant when using taxis, particularly during the early hours, and to promptly report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station.
