By Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
The Upper West Regional Police Command has arrested a 38-year-old woman, Abena Martha Maanibeh, for allegedly stealing a one-week-old baby and valuables belonging to the child’s mother at the Wa Market (Kejetia).
According to police, the incident occurred after the complainant, Ms. Kwofie Mwinbelle, delivered a baby boy at the Wa Regional Hospital on August 1, 2025. The suspect, posing as a caretaker for another patient, allegedly gained the trust of the new mother.
On August 10, 2025, under the guise of assisting the complainant to purchase baby diapers at the Wa Market, the suspect reportedly lured her away and took advantage of the situation to abscond with the infant. She is also accused of stealing the mother’s handbag, which contained a mobile phone, cash, and other personal effects.
Police investigations, led by the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU) Coordinator, ASP Stella Atukwa, tracked the suspect to her hideout in the Nuobollie community in the Savannah Region. She was arrested on August 15, 2025.
The baby was safely rescued and reunited with his mother. Some of the stolen items were also recovered.
The suspect was arraigned before the Wa District Magistrate Court on Monday, August 18, 2025, and has been remanded into police custody. She is expected to reappear on September 2, 2025.
In a statement signed by DCOP Darko Offei Lomotey, the Upper West Regional Police Commander, the police reaffirmed their commitment to protecting lives and property in the region.
“The Upper West Regional Police Command wishes to reassure the public of its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the region,” the statement read.
The Command also expressed gratitude to the public for their vigilance and support, which contributed to the successful arrest of the suspect.
