Police officials in the Western Region have apprehended three individuals suspected of having affiliations with Russia’s Wagner mercenary group. The trio was arrested in Diabene, a community within the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis, sparking concerns over potential security threats.
The Wagner Group, officially known as PMC Wagner, is a Russian state-funded private military company known for its involvement in various conflicts worldwide.
The arrests came in the wake of a public gathering organized by local youth, during which participants were observed displaying flags associated with Wagner and Russia. The suspects have been identified as Evans (25), Michael Asiedu (23), and Ernest Asiedu (26).
Allegedly backed by a sponsor based in Australia, these individuals reportedly rallied approximately 20 youths to form a military-style group at the Diabene community park. However, acting on a tip-off, the police intervened and arrested the trio.
Ramatu Ibrahim, the Assemblywoman of Fijai overseeing Diabene, confirmed the incident, stating that during police interrogations, “the boys said they were doing a freedom demonstration, they said they were training on how to wage war against the government.”
“They were hoisting different flags of different countries and playing the national anthem,” she added.
The local leader is said to be 25 years old, with the main leader allegedly located abroad. According to reports, the individuals were promised financial incentives if their planned actions were successful.
A man named Mensah Promise, who was arrested alongside the suspects while providing music for the rally, disclosed that they have already appeared in court twice but are currently out on bail.
This incident comes after Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo made a controversial statement in December last year, alleging that Russian mercenaries were positioned at the country’s northern border. He claimed that Burkina Faso had engaged Wagner forces and offered them a mine as compensation, raising concerns about security in the region.
In response, Burkina Faso’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its displeasure, urging Ghana to engage in dialogue with Burkinabe authorities to obtain accurate information regarding the security situation.
The arrests in Takoradi have heightened concerns about foreign mercenary groups operating or seeking influence in the region, raising questions about national security and international relations. The case is under investigation, and authorities are working to determine the extent of the individuals’ alleged affiliations with the Wagner Group.