The Western Central Regional Police Command has successfully apprehended an individual identified as Salifu Gariba in connection with the theft of a Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, assigned to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in Tarkwa. The arrest took place on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, in Kukobia, situated along the Tamale-Bolgatanga Highway, and was executed by officers of the Northern Regional Police Command. This operation led to the recovery of the stolen vehicle, bearing the registration number GS 1845-23.
The timeline of events surrounding the theft, as revealed by preliminary investigations, indicates that the vehicle was stolen from the residence of an EPA employee in Budo City, a suburb of Tarkwa, during the early hours of Tuesday, April 15, 2025. The swift action by the police in apprehending the suspect and recovering the vehicle demonstrates the effectiveness of inter-regional police cooperation and their commitment to combating vehicle theft.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Desmond Boampong, the Western Central Regional Police Commander, addressed a media conference in Tarkwa to announce the successful operation and provide details about the arrest and vehicle recovery. He highlighted the collaborative effort between the Western Central and Northern Regional Police Commands, emphasizing the importance of inter-agency communication and coordination in crime prevention and resolution. He further stated that the suspect, Salifu Gariba, has been remanded into police custody pending further investigation.
The ongoing investigation is expected to delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding the theft, including the suspect’s modus operandi, possible accomplices, and the intended destination or use of the stolen vehicle. This comprehensive investigation will help to build a strong case against the suspect and potentially uncover any wider network of criminal activity related to vehicle theft. The information gathered will also be crucial in formulating preventative measures to deter future incidents of similar nature.
The recovery of the stolen vehicle is a significant victory for the police and provides reassurance to the EPA and the public. It underscores the commitment of law enforcement agencies to upholding the law, ensuring the security of public assets, and bringing perpetrators of crime to justice. The prompt action and collaboration demonstrated in this case serve as a strong deterrent to potential criminals and contribute to maintaining public safety and order.
This incident highlights the importance of vigilance and security measures by both individuals and organizations in safeguarding their assets. Vehicle owners are encouraged to implement robust security systems, including alarms, immobilizers, and tracking devices, to deter theft. Furthermore, reporting suspicious activity to the police promptly can play a crucial role in preventing and solving crimes. The effective response in this case exemplifies the importance of public cooperation with law enforcement agencies in maintaining security and upholding the rule of law.
