The suspect, 27-year-old Ben “Sniper” Ofusi, was arrested near the Asafo Interchange after officers noticed suspicious movements.
According to the Ashanti Regional Police Command, he was found carrying a locally fabricated pistol with five rounds of ammunition. He reportedly tried to flee when approached but was swiftly apprehended by officers.
During interrogation, he allegedly confessed that he was en route to rob a mobile money vendor in the Dichemso area.
“He said he had been monitoring the victim for several days and planned to strike on Saturday evening,” a senior police officer said, speaking anonymously.
“His confession allowed us to quickly alert the target and prevent the crime.”
The revelation has left residents and traders alarmed, particularly mobile money operators who say they are increasingly at risk.
A Dichemso agent, Adwoa Serwaa, remarked, “I now shut my shop early. We are constantly being watched, and it is very worrying.”
Police suspect the accused may be linked to multiple robbery cases in the Ashanti Region, including a similar attack on a vendor in Bantama last month. He is currently assisting police with investigations.
Authorities say information retrieved from his mobile phone and online activity may help expose other members of his network.
Ashanti Regional Police Commander DCOP Kwaku Agyemang has assured the public that security has been strengthened in hotspot areas and encouraged residents to report suspicious individuals.
He noted that the arrest demonstrates the importance of public cooperation in crime prevention.
The suspect is expected to be taken to court on Monday on charges of attempted robbery and unlawful possession of a firearm.