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0 An undercover operation in the Tamale Metropolis has led to the arrest of a man found in possession of a cache of police gear and an illegal firearm, following a tense standoff involving traditional authorities.
The IGP Special Operations Team, led by DSP Bawah Abdul Jalil, apprehended the suspect, identified as John Abu Alhassan, at his residence in Gumani.
The arrest follows a complex series of events that began with a firearms sting and escalated into a dispute over a viral video containing alleged misinformation.
The chain of events started on February 3, 2026, when undercover agents arrested a young man for the illegal sale of firearms.
An accomplice, identified as Shamoo—the son of the Banvim Chief—was also implicated.
In a gesture of “good faith” aimed at maintaining communal peace, the police team visited the Banvim Chief’s Palace.
Following an amicable discussion where the Chief promised to retrieve and surrender the weapons personally, the suspect Shamoo was released.
Video Fallout and Misinformation
The situation took a sharp turn on February 5, 2026, when a video surfaced on social media.
In the clip, the Banvim Chief allegedly claimed his palace had been “invaded”, a statement the police have flatly denied.
Furthermore, another individual in the video was seen linking the police operation to the historical Dagbon chieftaincy disputes, a claim the police described as “unfounded and misleading” aimed at inciting the public against law enforcement.
The Arrest and Seized Exhibits
Acting on intelligence that the individual in the video was also harbouring illegal weapons, the team tracked John Abu Alhassan to his home in Gumani.
A search of the premises uncovered a disturbing array of restricted items:
- Firearms: One locally manufactured pistol and 11 live AA cartridges.
- Police Accoutrements: A police riot control helmet, a police raincoat, and shorts made from official police material.
Legal Proceedings
The suspect has been handed over to the Sakasaka Police Station for further investigation. He faces several grave charges, including:
- False Publication: Inciting the public against law enforcement.
- Unlawful Possession: Possession of firearms and ammunition without a licence.
- Illegal Possession of Accoutrements: Holding restricted police equipment.
DSP Bawah Abdul Jalil reaffirmed that the team remains focused on its mission to clamp down on robbery, rape, and the illegal trade of firearms.
“This operation underscores our commitment to countering misinformation and ensuring that individuals involved in criminal activities are brought to justice,” the DSP Jalil stated.
