Nigerian remanded over Ghanaian bank robbery

A Ghanaian court has ordered the remand of Nigerian national Maazi Augustine in police custody. He faces eight charges, including conspiracy to commit robbery, related to an alleged foiled bank operation in Accra's Labone area. Augustine pleaded not guilty.

The Accra Circuit Court mandated his custody until September 2, 2026. The Ghana Police Service reported arresting Augustine on August 13 after thwarting a plot to rob three banks: GCB Bank, Ecobank, and Zenith Bank. Police stated that officers spotted suspects in vehicles near the banks, leading to a chase and Augustine's arrest. A shootout occurred when occupants of a second vehicle fired at police, resulting in two suspects being killed.

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GCB Bank wishes to clarify that no robbery or attempted robbery took place at our Labone Branch or on the Bank’s premises.

However, GCB Bank has contested the police narrative. In a statement, the bank clarified that no robbery or attempted robbery took place at its Labone branch. It emphasized that the branch remained secure, with no impact on customers, staff, funds, or property. Despite these concerns, Augustine is to remain in custody pending his next court appearance.

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At no point was the branch breached, and no customer, member of staff, funds or property of the Bank was affected.