The Upper West Regional Police Command has arrested a 38-year-old woman identified as Abena Martha Maanibeh on suspicion of abducting a one-week-old baby and stealing items from the infant’s mother at the Wa Market, also referred to as Kejetia.
The alleged incident occurred on August 10, 2025.
According to authorities, Maanibeh posed as a caretaker at the Wa Regional Hospital and befriended the mother, Ms. Kwofie Mwinbelle, soon after she gave birth on August 1.
Reports indicate that Maanibeh lured Ms. Mwinbelle to the market under the guise of assisting her in buying diapers.
Taking advantage of the situation, she fled with both the newborn and the mother’s handbag, which contained cash, a phone, and other personal items.
Through a swift investigation led by ASP Stella Atukwia from the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU), Maanibeh was tracked down and arrested on August 15 at her hideout in Nuobollie, a community in the Savannah Region.
The police confirmed that the baby was safely rescued and reunited with his mother, and some of the stolen items were recovered.
Maanibeh appeared before the Wa District Magistrate Court on August 18, where she was remanded into custody. She is set to return to court on September 2, 2025.
The Regional Command further expressed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and thanked the community for its vigilance and cooperation that contributed to the suspect’s arrest.
Find the full statement below.
