Police Arrest Suspect in Theft of Supply Rider at Tantra Hill

Introduction

On Thursday, 11 December 2025, a disturbing assault unfolded on Tantra Hill in Accra when a supply rider was attacked, robbed and threatened with a machete. The incident, which quickly attracted national attention, culminated in the arrest of a 29‑year‑old suspect on Friday, 12 December 2025. This article provides a clear, SEO‑optimized overview of the case, explains the investigative steps taken by the Accra Regional Police Intelligence Unit, outlines the relevant Ghanaian legal provisions, and offers practical safety advice for riders and businesses.

Key Points

Background

Geographic and Economic Context

Tantra Hill is a densely populated residential area in the Greater Accra Region, known for its steep streets and busy commercial routes. Over the past few years, the neighbourhood has witnessed a rise in last‑mile delivery activities, driven by the growth of food‑delivery platforms and local eateries. Consequently, supply riders — often riding modest motorcycles — have become a frequent sight, transporting meals, groceries and parcels across the hill.

Victim Profile

The assaulted rider was an independent courier who had accepted a delivery order from a popular restaurant in Achimota. His route required him to navigate traffic‑laden streets and then ascend the narrow, poorly lit pathways of Tantra Hill. The attackers exploited the isolated nature of the road, using a motorcycle to block the rider’s path and a machete to intimidate him.

Analysis

Police Investigation Process

The Accra Regional Police Intelligence Unit launched an immediate intelligence‑driven investigation after receiving the rider’s complaint. Key steps included:

1. Scene Preservation: Officers collected forensic evidence, including tire tracks and weapon fragments.
2. Witness Interviews: Neighbours and nearby vendors were questioned to obtain descriptions of the suspects and the getaway vehicle.
3. Digital Footprint Analysis: Mobile phone records and transaction data from the rider’s Samsung A05 helped trace the location of the stolen device.
4. Surveillance Review: CCTV footage from adjacent businesses was examined to identify the suspects’ motorcycle and clothing.
5. Targeted Raid: Based on gathered leads, officers conducted a coordinated operation at Agbogbloshie, a known marketplace for used motorcycles.

Legal Framework in Ghana

Under the Ghanaian Criminal Code Act (1960), the following statutes are relevant to this case:

• Section 148 – Theft: Punishable by up to seven (7) years imprisonment when committed with violence or threat of violence.
• Section 188 – Assault with a Dangerous Weapon: Carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five (5) years, increasing if a machete or other lethal instrument is used.
• Section 230 – Unlawful Possession of Stolen Property: The suspect’s attempt to sell the stolen motorcycle constitutes an additional offence.

If convicted, Akwesi Atanzumi could face a combined custodial sentence of up to 12–15 years, depending on the court’s interpretation of aggravating factors such as the use of a weapon and the endangerment of the victim’s life.

Crime Trends and Safety Concerns

Incidents of violent robbery targeting delivery riders have risen sharply across urban centres in Ghana. According to the Ghana Police Service Annual Crime Report 2024, assaults involving weapons against couriers increased by 23 % compared with the previous year. Contributing factors include:

• The high value of electronic devices carried by riders.
• Inadequate personal security measures among independent couriers.
• Limited lighting and surveillance in peripheral neighbourhoods such as Tantra Hill.

These statistics underscore the need for coordinated action between law‑enforcement agencies, delivery platforms and community stakeholders.

Practical Advice

For Supply Riders

Riders can reduce their exposure to theft and assault by adopting the following best practices:

• Limit Cash on Hand: Carry only the minimum amount of money needed for immediate expenses.
• Use Secure Communication Devices: Keep phones in a locked compartment and enable remote‑wipe features.
• Avoid High‑Risk Routes at Night: Plan deliveries during daylight hours whenever possible.
• Equip Personal Safety Tools: Consider legally permissible personal alarms or pepper spray for emergencies.
• Report Suspicious Activity Promptly: Use dedicated hotlines or police apps to flag unusual behaviour.

For Employers and Delivery Platforms

Companies that employ or contract supply riders should implement robust risk‑mitigation strategies:

• Provide Training: Conduct regular safety workshops covering route planning, de‑escalation techniques and emergency response.
• Offer Protective Gear: Supply helmets, reflective jackets and insurance coverage for personal belongings.
• Implement Real‑Time Tracking: Use GPS‑enabled dispatch systems that allow supervisors to monitor rider locations.
• Establish Reporting Protocols: Create clear channels for riders to report threats without fear of retaliation.

For the General Public

Community members can contribute to a safer environment by:

• Staying Vigilant: Report any unfamiliar individuals loitering near delivery zones.
• Supporting Local Initiatives: Participate in neighbourhood watch programs that focus on protecting vulnerable workers.
• Sharing Information: Provide authorities with any relevant details, such as vehicle registration numbers or distinctive clothing.

FAQ

Conclusion

The swift arrest of Akwesi Atanzumi demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence‑led policing in addressing violent crimes against supply riders. While the incident underscores ongoing safety challenges for couriers in Accra’s urban peripheries, it also highlights the importance of collaborative efforts among police, businesses and community members. By adopting proactive safety measures and staying informed about legal rights, riders can better protect themselves against the threats highlighted by this case.

Sources

• Life Pulse Daily – “Police arrest suspect occupied with theft of supply rider at Tantra Hill” (Published 23 December 2025). https://www.lifepulsedaily.com/police-arrest-suspect-tantra-hill
• Ghana Police Service – Annual Crime Report 2024. https://www.police.gov.gh/crime-report-2024
• Ghana Criminal Code Act, 1960 (Act 29). https://www.law.gov.gh/criminal-code-act-1960
• Superintendent of Police Juliana Obeng – Press Briefing, 23 December 2025. Transcript available on the Accra Regional Police website.