Police arrest man for threat of death and unlawful possession of firearm

The Accra Regional Police Command has arrested a 53-year-old man, Seth Welbeck, for threatening a police investigator and unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition.

According to a press release issued by the Regional Public Affairs Unit of the Ghana Police Service on February 7, 2026, the suspect was arrested on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, following an incident at the Accra Circuit Court.

The arrest stemmed from a forgery case in which the suspect had been issued a criminal summons to appear before the court. After the court proceedings, while being escorted to the court cells, Mr. Welbeck requested permission from the investigator handling the case to lock his vehicle.

In the course of doing so, the suspect allegedly retrieved a Smith & Wesson SD9 VE pistol loaded with nine rounds of 9mm ammunition from the vehicle and pointed it at the investigator, threatening him.

With the swift intervention of other court officials and witnesses, the investigator was able to disarm the suspect, preventing any harm.

Police say the suspect is currently in custody assisting with investigations and will be arraigned before the court to face justice.

The Accra Regional Police Command has used the incident to caution the general public against acts of violence, threats, and the unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, stressing that such actions pose serious risks to lives and property.

The Command further advised members of the public to comply fully with lawful court processes and police procedures, warning that any attempt to obstruct justice, intimidate public officers, or resort to violence will be dealt with firmly in accordance with the law.