An Accra Circuit Court has remanded two police officers, Lance Corporal William Atia Asitanga and Lance Corporal Sulemana Zanya Abdul-Rahman, into police custody for their alleged roles in the theft of 16 CZ assault rifles from a police armoury. The officers were charged with abetment of crime, namely stealing, with Asitanga facing an additional charge of stealing rifles.
Incident Background
The incident occurred in March 2024 at the National Counter Terrorism Department in Accra, where Asitanga served as the armourer responsible for managing arms and ammunition. An internal audit revealed the disappearance of the rifles, prompting an investigation that led to the arrest of the two officers.
Court Proceedings
Both officers pleaded not guilty to the charges. The prosecution, led by Deputy Superintendent of Police Emmanuel Nyamekye, informed the court that some of the stolen rifles have been recovered and requested additional time to complete investigations. The court granted the request and adjourned the matter to September 10, 2025.
Concerns Over National Security
The theft of the assault rifles has raised concerns about potential risks to national security and public safety, highlighting the need for enhanced security protocols within Ghana’s security services. The Ghana Police Service has not issued a public statement on the matter, but the decision to remand the officers indicates the seriousness with which the case is being treated.