The Inspector-General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has recognized two officers from the Anyaa District Command with immediate promotions following their exceptional bravery during a critical rescue operation that prevented a major fuel theft and saved two victims from armed robbers.
Chief Inspector Patience Kotoka and General Constable Joseph Akondoh demonstrated remarkable vigilance and quick thinking during a routine snap check operation at Ablekuma Borkorborkor in the Greater Accra Region on August 7, 2025.
Their swift actions led to the rescue of two robbery victims and ultimately resulted in the arrest of seven suspects connected to the hijacking of a 5,400-litre fuel tanker worth approximately GH¢766,800.
At about 12:30 a.m., while conducting routine vehicle checks, the officers noticed a suspicious vehicle approaching their checkpoint.
When they signaled for the vehicle to stop, two passengers jumped from the open bucket of the vehicle and called for help, explaining that they had been attacked the previous night in a robbery involving their 5,400-litre fuel tanker near Nsawam.
The officers, working alongside four Community Police Assistants, responded immediately to the victims’ distress calls.
Their rapid intervention not only secured the safety of the two victims but also initiated a coordinated operation that would eventually lead to the recovery of the stolen fuel tanker and the arrest of the criminal gang. The officers acted swiftly, rescuing the victims and arresting one suspect at the scene.
This initial arrest provided crucial intelligence that enabled police across two regions to track down and apprehend the remaining members of the criminal network.
The fuel tanker hijacking had occurred earlier near Nsawam, where a seven-member gang of robbers including a soldier, posed as National Security operatives and snatched a tanker loaded with 54,000 litres of fuel (note: sources vary between 5,400 and 54,000 litres).
The sophisticated criminal operation involved impersonating security personnel to gain the trust of their victims before executing the robbery.
According to the Ghana Police Service, a coordinated snap check operation led to the arrests across two regions — Greater Accra and Eastern.
The successful multi-regional operation demonstrates the effectiveness of police coordination and intelligence sharing.
In recognition of their outstanding service, Chief Inspector Patience Kotoka has been recommended to join the next Police Cadet Course at the Police Academy to be commissioned into the Senior Officer Corps upon successful completion, while Constable Joseph Akondoh has been promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal.
The IGP’s decision to promote both officers reflects the Ghana Police Service’s commitment to recognizing excellence and rewarding officers who demonstrate exceptional dedication to public safety.
According to a statement from the Police Service, copied to the Ghana News Agency, the promotions followed a successful operation on 7th August 2025 at Ablekuma Borkorborkor.
This incident showcases the critical importance of routine police operations and the vigilance of frontline officers.
The quick thinking and professional response of Chief Inspector Kotoka and Lance Corporal Akondoh (as he is now ranked) prevented what could have been a significant economic loss while ensuring the safety of robbery victims.
The successful operation also highlights the effectiveness of community policing initiatives, as the four Community Police Assistants who supported the operation played a crucial role in its success.
Their collaboration demonstrates the Ghana Police Service’s integrated approach to maintaining public safety and security.
Story Written By Prince Asante Kwarteng | Kobby Kyei News
