The Upper West Regional Police Command has arrested a 38-year-old woman, identified as Abena Martha Maanibeh, for allegedly abducting a one-week-old baby and stealing valuables belonging to the infant’s mother at Wa Market, also known as Kejetia.
According to police, the incident occurred on August 10, 2025.
The suspect, who had been pretending to be a caretaker at the Wa Regional Hospital, befriended the child’s mother, Ms. Kwofie Mwinbelle, shortly after she delivered on August 1.
Investigators say Maanibeh lured the mother to the market under the pretense of helping her purchase diapers. She then took advantage of the situation to flee with both the newborn and the woman’s handbag, which contained cash, a phone, and other personal items.
Following a swift probe led by ASP Stella Atukwia of the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU), the suspect was tracked down and arrested on August 15 at her hideout in Nuobollie, a community in the Savannah Region.
Police confirmed that the baby was safely rescued and reunited with his mother. Some of the stolen belongings were also recovered.
Maanibeh appeared before the Wa District Magistrate Court on August 18 and was remanded into custody. She is scheduled to reappear on September 2, 2025.
The Regional Command has assured residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property and commended the public for the vigilance and cooperation that led to the suspect’s arrest.
