Woman Arrested in Wa for Baby stealing and Theft

JHNews || Wa, August 18, 2025 – The Upper West Regional Police Command has arrested a 38-year-old woman, Abena Martha Maanibeh, for allegedly stealing a one-week-old baby boy and valuables belonging to the child’s mother.

Police said the incident occurred on August 10 at the Wa Market (Kejatia) after the suspect, who had been posing as a caretaker at the Wa Regional Hospital, lured the baby’s mother, Ms. Kwofie Mwinbelle, to buy diapers. Taking advantage of the mother’s absence, the suspect absconded with the infant and a handbag containing money, a mobile phone, and other items.

Following swift investigations led by ASP Stella Atukwia of the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit, police traced Maanibeh to a hideout at Nuobollie in the Savannah Region. She was arrested on August 15, and the baby was rescued unharmed and reunited with his mother. Some of the stolen items were also recovered.

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

In a statement, the Upper West Regional Police Command assured the public of its “unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property” and commended residents for their vigilance, which contributed to the suspect’s arrest.