The Upper West Regional Police Command has chalked a major victory in the fight against violent crime with the sentencing of a notorious armed robber, Adinan Mahmoud, popularly known as “Okra,” to 18 years in prison with hard labour.
The 25-year-old, who had long evaded arrest, was captured on Saturday, May 31, 2025, during a high-risk intelligence-led operation at his hideout in Sandemuni, a suburb of Wa Municipality.
Police sources say Okra was a key suspect in a spate of violent robberies that had plagued communities across the region. He was arraigned before the Wa Circuit Court on Monday, June 2, where he pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit crime and robbery.
Presiding judge, His Honour Jonathan Avogo, handed down the 18-year sentence, describing Okra’s actions as a serious threat to public safety.
Two other suspects—Abdulai Ibrahim, alias “Baba,” and Abdulai Kipo—who were arrested alongside Okra, pleaded not guilty. The court has remanded them into police and prison custody, respectively, with proceedings set to continue.
In a statement, ASP Michael Toya, Public Affairs Officer of the Regional Police Command, described the arrest and conviction as a “critical milestone in restoring peace and public confidence in the region.”
“The removal of Okra from the streets brings significant relief to residents, who can now feel safer in their homes and communities,” he said.
The Command reaffirmed its resolve to pursue all members of armed robbery syndicates operating in the region, urging the public to assist with credible information.
“We remain committed to dismantling criminal networks and securing long-term peace in the Upper West Region,” the statement added.
