Police Arrest Woman for Stealing Baby and Valuables at Wa Market

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 personal belongings of the baby’s mother at the Wa market (Kejetia).

According to police, the incident occurred on August 10, 2025, when the suspect, posing as a caretaker, deceitfully lured the baby’s mother, Ms. Kwofie Mwinbelle, to purchase diapers. While Ms. Mwinbelle was away, Maanibeh reportedly absconded with the infant and a handbag containing a mobile phone, cash, and other valuables.

Ms. Mwinbelle had delivered her baby boy on August 1, 2025, at the Upper West Regional Hospital, where the suspect had been caring for another patient.

Following swift investigative efforts led by the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU) Coordinator, ASP Madam Stella Atukwia, and a team of investigators, Maanibeh was arrested on August 15, 2025, at her hideout in Nuobollie, a community in the Savannah Region.

Police successfully rescued the baby, who has since been reunited with his mother. Some of the stolen items were also retrieved.

The suspect was arraigned before the Wa District Magistrate Court on Monday, August 18, 2025. She was remanded into custody and is expected to reappear on September 2, 2025.

In a statement signed by the Regional Police Commander, DCOP Mr. Darko Offei Lomotey, the Command reassured the public of its commitment to protecting lives and property in the region.

It also expressed appreciation to residents whose vigilance and cooperation contributed to the suspect’s arrest.