The Ghana Police Service (GPS) has revealed that the recently dismantled ‘Duku Syndicate’, responsible for a spate of violent carjackings in the Ashanti and Western Central regions, allegedly collaborated with insiders at the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) to secure fraudulent documentation for stolen vehicles.

In a press briefing at the Ashanti Regional Police Headquarters in Kumasi, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno confirmed the arrests of four suspects and the death of the gang’s leader, 42-year-old Eric Antwi Duku, during an intensive intelligence-led operation.

The crackdown followed the tragic killing of Mr Andrews Amankwah on February 10, 2026, after armed men snatched his Toyota Hilux pickup at Ohwim Tigo Junction in Kumasi. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he succumbed to his injuries. He was the father-in-law of GOLDBOD CEO Sammy Gyamfi ESQ.

The IGP explained that investigations, led by the Anti-Robbery Unit and the Cyber Vetting Team, revealed that the syndicate specialised in high-end black and ash-colored pickups and Land Cruisers.

Beyond violent thefts, the group allegedly relied on DVLA collaborators to falsify vehicle documentation, enabling the illegal sale of stolen cars.

Stolen vehicles were reportedly moved across borders, including sales to a contact in Paga, while the gang’s leader frequently traveled to Dubai with his wife following successful operations.

The investigation saw its first major breakthrough on February 18 with the arrest of 47-year-old farmer Akwasi Manu, found in possession of the deceased’s mobile phone. He has since been remanded by the Asokwa Circuit Court.

Subsequent arrests included 33-year-old Bashiru Tanko aka TK, 35-year-old Kwadwo Amponsah aka Kamakazi, and 38-year-old Emmanuel Kwame Appiah aka Taller.

IGP Yohuno expressed condolences to the Amankwah family, thanked President John D. Mahama for providing logistics support, and issued a stern warning to criminals.

He emphasised that the police will leave no stone unturned in exposing collusion and bringing all perpetrators to justice.