The Upper West Regional Police Command has secured the conviction of a notorious armed robber, bringing significant relief to residents in the region.

In a statement issued by the Public Affairs Directorate, ASP Michael Toya confirmed that Adinan Mahmoud, 25, known by the alias "Okra", was arrested on Saturday, May 31, at his hideout in Sandemuni, a suburb of the Wa Municipal area.

His arrest followed intensive intelligence-led operations by the Regional Police Intelligence Directorate.

Mahmoud had been on the police wanted list for a series of robberies in the region.

On Monday, June 2, he was arraigned before the Wa Circuit Court, presided over by His Honour Jonathan Avoogo.

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He pleaded guilty to the charges of conspiracy to commit crime, to wit robbery, and robbery. He was sentenced to 18 years' imprisonment in hard labour.

His two accomplices, Abdulai Ibrahim alias Baba, and Abdulai Kipo, pleaded not guilty.

They have been remanded into prison and police custody, respectively, for the continuation of the trial on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, in the same court.

“The removal of Okra from the streets brings significant relief to residents, who can now feel more secure in their communities,” the statement noted.

The statement further added that the command remains resolute in its efforts to track down and bring to justice all individuals who pose a threat to peace and security in the region.