38-Year-Old Woman Arrested in Wa for Stealing Week-Old Baby and Mother’s Belongings

By Joylinda Laryea / 25 August, 2025

Police in the Upper West Region have arrested a 38-year-old woman, Abena Martha Maanibeh, for allegedly abducting a week-old baby boy and stealing personal belongings from the child’s mother, Ms. Kwofie Mwinbelle.

The incident occurred on August 10, just days after Ms. Mwinbelle had given birth at the Wa Regional Hospital. According to a statement signed by DCOP Darko Offei Lomotey, Upper West Regional Police Commander, the suspect posed as a caregiver at the hospital and gained the trust of the new mother.

Maanibeh allegedly convinced Ms. Mwinbelle to accompany her to the Wa market under the pretense of buying diapers. While at the market, the suspect disappeared with the baby and the mother’s handbag, which contained cash, a mobile phone, and other valuables.

A swift investigation by the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU) led to the suspect’s arrest on August 15 at a hideout in Nuobille Community in the Savannah Region. Fortunately, the baby was found unharmed and has since been reunited with his mother.

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

The police have assured the public of their commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and have urged citizens to remain vigilant and cautious when accepting assistance from strangers.