A combination of advanced CCTV surveillance and community collaboration has resulted in the arrest of a 20-year-old man, Kwabena Gyimah, alias “69,” accused of breaking into homes in Sakumono, Community 17, and stealing mobile phones worth thousands of cedis.
The alleged thefts, which occurred on August 5, 2024, targeted a journalist, a banker, and a local resident. Gyimah has been charged with multiple counts of unlawful entry and theft, pleading not guilty at an Accra Circuit Court.
The Role of Technology
The breakthrough in the case came when John Foley, one of the victims and a journalist, discovered his iPhone 14 Pro Max missing and noticed an open window. Reviewing footage from his home’s CCTV system, Foley identified a trespasser later confirmed to be Gyimah.
The footage not only served as critical evidence but also prompted other residents to check their properties. Two additional victims, Andy Ababio, a banker, and Vida Akwei Naadude, reported similar break-ins and missing devices, including an iPhone 11, Samsung S22 Ultra, and Samsung A5.
Community Engagement
Foley’s decision to share the incident on a community WhatsApp platform spurred collective action. Residents shared details of similar incidents, creating a network of information that aided the police investigation.
The community collaboration, combined with police efforts, led to the recovery of Foley’s iPhone 14 Pro Max from a shop at Kwame Nkrumah Circle, Accra, where it had been sold.
Police Investigation and Arrest
Following months of investigation, Gyimah was apprehended at his hideout in Palladium, Accra, on December 31, 2024. During interrogation, he admitted to selling the stolen phones to an accomplice, “Coded,” a Nigerian national currently at large.
Gyimah appeared before the court, which granted him bail of GHC 50,000 with three sureties. The court also ordered him to report weekly to the police until the case is concluded.
Importance of Technology and Vigilance
The case highlights the growing importance of technology in enhancing security and solving crimes. It also underscores the role of community platforms in fostering collaboration and vigilance.
ASP Benjamin Kofi Baafi, prosecuting the case, commended the community for its proactive approach and urged residents to consider installing surveillance systems as a deterrent to criminal activities.
The case has been adjourned to February 4, 2025, as investigations continue to locate Gyimah’s accomplice and address the broader implications of the thefts.
By working together and leveraging technology, the Sakumono community has set an example of how modern tools and collective action can contribute to safer neighborhoods.