A Special Operations Team deployed by the Ghana Police Service to tackle rising criminal activity in Kumasi has been withdrawn less than 24 hours after commencing operations in the Ashanti Regional capital.

The team, led by Bawah Abdul Jalil and Samuel Mustapha Abenzuo, arrived on Wednesday and immediately began intelligence-led patrols targeting crime-prone areas within the metropolis.

Their mission focused on curbing offences such as robbery, drug trafficking, violent attacks, and the possession of illegal weapons.

As part of the operation, 111 personnel were deployed, supported by 10 service vehicles, including an armoured carrier and a Black Maria for transporting suspects.

The team conducted extensive patrols across key locations, including areas around the Manhyia Palace enclave, before moving in on a known drug hotspot popularly referred to as “Tinker Island.”

During the initial phase of the exercise, officers arrested 19 suspects in connection with drug-related activities at the site.

However, shortly after this operation, the team was recalled to Police Headquarters in Accra to prepare for other assignments.

The sudden withdrawal has sparked public concern, with some residents questioning the decision and suggesting possible external interference.

“We were beginning to feel safer seeing their presence, so this sudden recall is worrying,” one resident reportedly remarked.

The Ghana Police Service has yet to issue an official statement explaining the reasons behind the withdrawal.