The Ashanti South Regional Police Command has arrested a notorious suspect, William Opoku, also known as “Father Blessing,” in connection with a series of car snatching, robberies, and vehicle thefts across the Ashanti Region.
The arrest, which followed intelligence-led operations, took place at Ahwiaa near Kumasi and marks a significant breakthrough in efforts to dismantle organized vehicle-related crime in the region.
According to police sources, investigations led officers to identify several hideouts allegedly used by Opoku and members of his gang in Ahwiaa and Pankrono. His eventual arrest has provided crucial leads in ongoing efforts to track down other members of the syndicate.
During interrogation, William Opoku reportedly admitted to his involvement in multiple vehicle theft incidents in recent months. Among the cases he is said to have confessed to include the theft of several Toyota Corolla vehicles at various locations, including the Anwiankwanta–Asanso road, Pankrono, Moro Market, and Anloga Junction in Kumasi.
Police further revealed that the suspect led investigators to a workshop where one of the stolen vehicles—a white Toyota Corolla—was being repaired. The vehicle has since been retrieved as part of ongoing investigations.
In a more troubling development, Opoku is also alleged to have played a role in a violent attack on a police officer at Kronum Brokutu on July 5, 2025, during which an AK-47 assault rifle and ammunition were stolen. Investigators believe the weapon may have been kept by Opoku for safekeeping.
The suspect also identified several alleged accomplices, including individuals known as “Killer Wooah,” “Shangu Spirit,” “Okoronko,” Aki, and Yaw Antwi. Acting on this intelligence, police launched a follow-up operation on June 17, 2026, to apprehend the remaining suspects.
During the operation, officers encountered some of the suspects riding an unregistered motorbike. Police say an attempt to arrest them led to a confrontation after the rider allegedly knocked down an officer and opened fire while trying to escape. Officers returned fire, resulting in two suspects sustaining gunshot wounds.
The injured suspects were rushed to the Bekwai Municipal Hospital but were pronounced dead on arrival. Their bodies have since been deposited at the hospital mortuary pending autopsy.
Meanwhile, another suspect identified as “Okoronko” managed to escape and is currently on the run. Police have intensified efforts to track down him and other members of the gang still at large.
William Opoku remains in police custody assisting with investigations. The Ashanti South Regional Police Command has assured the public of its commitment to bringing all those involved in the criminal network to justice and recovering the remaining stolen vehicles, as well as the missing firearm.
The police have also appealed to the public to provide credible information that could aid in the arrest of the remaining suspects and support ongoing investigations.
