In a major breakthrough against violent crime, the Upper West Regional Police Command has secured the conviction of one of the region’s most wanted armed robbers, Adian Mahmoud, also known by his alias Okra.
The 25-year-old was sentenced to 18 years of hard labor by the Wa Circuit Court on Monday, June 2, 2025, following his arrest just days earlier.
The conviction follows a series of intelligence-led operations by the Regional Police Intelligence Directorate, which had been tracking Mahmoud for months in connection with a string of armed robberies across the Upper West Region.
He was finally apprehended on Saturday, May 31, at his hideout in Sandemuni, a suburb of the Wa Municipality.
Mahmoud appeared before the Wa Circuit Court, presided over by His Honour Jonathan Avoogo, and pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit robbery.
The swift sentencing was welcomed by the public and local authorities, marking a decisive moment in the fight against crime in the region.
Two alleged accomplices—Abdulai Ibrahim, alias Baba, and Abdulai Kipo—were also arrested in connection with the case.
Unlike Mahmoud, both pleaded not guilty and have been remanded in prison and police custody, respectively. Their trial is scheduled to continue on Tuesday, June 3, 2025.
The removal of Okra from the streets has brought a palpable sense of relief to residents of Wa and surrounding communities, many of whom have lived in fear amid rising incidents of violent crime.
Police believe the gang had been involved in multiple coordinated robberies that terrorized locals and disrupted commercial activity.
In a statement, the Upper West Regional Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring public safety and pledged to pursue all individuals who pose a threat to peace and security in the region.
“This conviction is a testament to the tireless efforts of our officers and the power of community cooperation.
“We urge the public to continue assisting law enforcement with timely and credible information,” the statement read.
The successful conviction of Mahmoud marks a significant victory for law enforcement and sends a clear message that criminal elements will be vigorously pursued and brought to justice.
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