Ghana Police Rescue Kidnapped Victim in Yendi After Fierce Shootout; GH¢70,000 Recovered

The Ghana Police Service has successfully rescued a kidnapped victim in the Yendi District after a dramatic armed confrontation with suspected kidnappers. The operation, carried out earlier today at Wapuli, led to the arrest of three individuals following a tense shootout that drew public attention across the Northern Region.

The suspects — 31-year-old Haruna Seidu, Amidu Bande, and 40-year-old Osman Bande — reportedly opened fire on police officers who had tracked their hideout. According to police sources, officers returned fire swiftly and effectively, disarming the suspects and safely extracting the victim without any physical harm.

This development comes after the kidnappers earlier demanded a ransom of GH¢100,000 from the victim’s family. During the rescue operation, police retrieved a bag containing GH¢70,000 in cash, believed to be part of the ransom that had already been handed over under duress.

Despite the successful arrests, one suspect managed to escape the scene. Police indicate that the fugitive may be injured, as he fled with what is suspected to be gunshot wounds. A manhunt has been launched to track down the remaining accomplice, with investigators pursuing multiple leads.

Items recovered from the scene include three motorbikes used by the suspects and a Samsung mobile phone abandoned during the exchange of gunfire. These items are currently being examined as evidence as part of ongoing investigations.

Authorities describe the operation as a major breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping-for-ransom cases, which have been on the rise in parts of the Northern Region. Community members have praised the swift police response, expressing relief that the victim was rescued alive and unharmed.

The three arrested suspects are currently in police custody and are expected to face charges in court in the coming days. Meanwhile, the police have urged the public to report suspicious activities promptly, assuring communities of strengthened security measures and rapid-response interventions.

This incident highlights the growing sophistication of police operations as they continue working to curb violent crime and protect vulnerable communities across the country.