Police probe alleged child-stealing at Ashanti school; warns against unverified kidnapping claims

The Airport District Police in the Ashanti Region are investigating an alleged child-stealing incident involving two pupils of Happy Royal International School, following a report filed on Tuesday, 6 October 2026. Airport District Police Commander Superintendent Kingsley Kawodie confirmed the ongoing investigation whilst cautioning the public against spreading unverified claims about mass abductions in the region.

According to Supt. Kawodie, the Police have not confirmed widespread reports suggesting that 11 school pupils had been kidnapped across the Ashanti Region. The investigation remains focused on the specific case of the two pupils from the Asokore Mampong Municipality-based school.

School and parental response

Francis Koomson, Headmaster of Happy Royal International School, revealed that the school became aware of the incident around 6:00 p.m. on the day it was reported. He noted that by the time the school learnt of the matter, it had already been escalated to the Police. "We don't have first-hand information now, but we are relying on the Police for updates," Mr Koomson stated.

The school leadership has called on parents, pupils and the public to exercise heightened caution, particularly during early morning and late evening hours. Mr Koomson emphasised that the incident should serve as a reminder for communities to prioritise personal safety and remain vigilant in their daily activities.

Why it matters for Ghana

Child safety remains a pressing concern for Ghanaian families and educational institutions. Incidents of child abduction or theft, whether confirmed or rumoured, can trigger widespread panic within school communities and neighbourhoods. The Police's clarification distinguishing between the specific case under investigation and unverified claims of mass kidnapping demonstrates the importance of official verification before public communication.

This incident underscores several critical issues affecting Ghanaian society. First, it highlights the vulnerability of schoolchildren and the need for robust security protocols at educational institutions. Second, the rapid spread of unconfirmed reports about kidnappings reflects how misinformation can escalate anxiety among parents and guardians, potentially causing unnecessary disruption to school routines and community life.

The timely Police intervention and the school's transparent communication with stakeholders represent best practices in crisis management. However, the incident also raises questions about security measures at private schools in the region and coordination between educational institutions and law enforcement agencies in responding to child safety threats.

Parents across Ghana, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas, will likely find the Police advice relevant to their own concerns about children's safety during school commutes and activities. The case serves as a reminder that whilst child protection remains paramount, verified information from official sources such as the Police is essential before drawing conclusions or taking precautionary measures.