Police arrest 12 suspects in Tamale special operation

The Northern Regional Special Operations Team, popularly known as RED MARIA, conducted a high-stakes tactical operation in Tamale on Tuesday, October 8. Commencing at approximately 09:30 GMT, the coordinated exercise targeted specific areas within the Fuo and Kukuo suburbs known for criminal activity. The operation resulted in the apprehension of 12 suspects and the recovery of several dangerous weapons and illicit substances, marking a significant intervention in the regional capital's security landscape.

In the Fuo suburb, police personnel focused on locations associated with illegal drug activity, leading to the arrest of seven individuals. These suspects were allegedly caught in the act of using or possessing narcotics. The tactical team then shifted its focus to Kukuo, where five additional suspects were taken into custody. Notably, three of the individuals arrested in Kukuo were found to be in possession of firearms, highlighting the dangerous nature of the criminal activities targeted by the special team.

The search operations yielded a substantial quantity of contraband and offensive weapons. Security officials recovered two locally manufactured pistols and one pump-action shotgun during the raids. In addition to the firearms, the police seized 25 wraps of suspected Indian hemp and six sachets of Tramadol, a controlled synthetic opioid. All confiscated items have been documented as evidence and were transported alongside the suspects to the Regional Criminal Investigations Department (CID) for detailed processing.

The Ghana Police Service has commended the RED MARIA unit for their professionalism and efficiency during the exercise. Regional authorities indicated that the 12 suspects will remain in custody while investigations continue to determine the source of the firearms and the extent of any drug distribution networks. This operation is part of a broader strategy to enhance public safety in Tamale and ensure that individuals involved in violent crime and drug trafficking are brought before the court for prosecution.