Wa woman arrested for stealing one-week-old baby, valuables

The Upper West Regional Police Command has arrested a 38-year-old woman,Abena Martha Maanibeh, for allegedly abducting a one-week-old baby and stealing valuables belonging to the baby’s mother at the Wa market, popularly known as Kejetia.

The incident occurred on August 10, 2025. According to a police statement signed by Regional Commander DCOP Darko Offei Lomotey, the suspect posed as a caretaker at the Wa Regional Hospital and gained the trust of the victim, Ms. Kwofie Mwinibelle.

She then lured her to the market under the pretext of buying baby diapers, only to flee with the newborn and a handbag containing cash, a mobile phone, and other personal belongings.

Police launched a swift investigation through the
Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit, led by ASP Madam Stella Atukwia. The team tracked
Maanibeh to a hideout in the Nuobollie community in the Savannah Region, where she was arrested on August 15, 2025.

The baby was found unharmed and has since been reunited with the mother. Some of the stolen items were also recovered.

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

The Police Command has urged residents to remain vigilant and assured the public of its continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property in the region.