Woman arrested for stealing one-week-old baby in Wa

The Upper West Regional Police Command has arrested a 38-year-old woman, Abena Martha Maanibeh, for allegedly abducting a one-week-old baby and stealing valuables belonging to the child’s mother at the Wa Market (Kejetia).

According to a police statement issued on Monday, August 18, 2025, the incident occurred on August 10, 2025, when the suspect posed as a caretaker at the Wa Regional Hospital.

She reportedly lured the complainant, Ms Kwofie Mwinibelle, to buy baby nappies at the market, after which she vanished with the baby and a handbag containing a mobile phone, cash, and personal items.

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Police said the suspect was tracked and arrested on August 15, 2025, at her hideout in Nuobollie, Savannah Region, by officers from the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU) led by ASP Madam Stella Atukwia.

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Fortunately, the baby was rescued unharmed and reunited with the mother. Some of the stolen belongings were also retrieved.

The suspect was arraigned before the Wa District Magistrate Court on August 18, 2025, and has been remanded into custody.

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She is expected to reappear in court on September 2, 2025.

The Upper West Regional Police Command, led by DCOP Darko Offei Lomotey, has urged residents to remain vigilant and assured the public of its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the region.