News News from Ghana

The latest news news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

Chief Superintendent Benedicta Akpene Ansah, Volta Regional MTTD Commander explaining a point to two occupants of vehicles intercepted during the exercise
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Volta Regional MTTD Crackdown Seizes Illegal Lamps and Sirens in Peki and Juapong

The Volta Regional Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service has intensified its enforcement of road regulations with a specialized task force operation targeting illegal vehicle accessories. Conducted on July 29, 2025, the exercise focused on the Peki and Juapong areas, resulting in the seizure of dozens of unapproved lamps, sirens, and high-pitched horns from both private vehicles and motorbikes. The operation marks a renewed commitment by regional authorities to curb the use of unauthorized lighting and sound devices that often impair the visibility and safety of other road users. In the Peki leg of the operation, led by Chief Superintendent Benedicta Akpene Ansah, the task force intercepted 25 vehicles and two motorbikes. While no arrests were made during this specific phase, officers successfully confiscated 27 unapproved lamps and one siren that were found to be in violation of standard safety protocols. The removal of these accessories is part of a broader effort to ensure that all vehicles operating on public roads adhere to the specifications mandated by law, preventing accidents caused by blinding lights or confusing signals. The enforcement continued in Juapong, where authorities encountered a higher volume of non-compliant vehicles and accessories. During this phase, the task force stopped 36 vehicles and 25 motorbikes, leading to the seizure of 61 unapproved horns and an additional 36 lamps. These items are frequently used by drivers to bypass traffic or intimidate other motorists, creating hazardous conditions on the highway. By stripping these accessories at the point of interception, the MTTD aims to send a clear message that illegal modifications will not be tolerated. These operations are grounded in the strict enforcement of Regulations 65 and 74 of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (LI 2180), which prohibit the installation of unauthorized lamps, sirens, and other sound-making devices on vehicles not designated for emergency use. Moving forward, the MTTD has signaled that such crackdown exercises will be periodic and unannounced across the region. Motorists are urged to voluntarily remove illegal accessories to avoid confiscation and potential prosecution, as the police strive to improve overall road safety and discipline.

GNFS Firefighters Battle Major Blaze at Labadi Wireless; Multiple Homes Affected
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GNFS Firefighters Battle Major Blaze at Labadi Wireless; Multiple Homes Affected

Firefighters from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) have successfully contained a significant fire outbreak that destroyed several homes in the Labadi Wireless neighborhood of Accra. The emergency, which occurred recently, sparked concern among residents as flames threatened to spread through the residential enclave. The quick intervention of the fire service prevented a potential catastrophe in the densely populated community. The firefighting operation was a collaborative effort involving personnel from three major stations: Trade Fair, Ministries, and Accra City fire stations. Upon arrival, the crews faced a raging inferno but managed to bring it under control through strategic deployment and water application. Following the suppression of the main fire, the teams remained on-site to conduct extensive overhaul and salvage operations, ensuring that all hotspots were extinguished and assisting victims in identifying salvageable items from the debris. While the fire has been extinguished, the scale of the destruction is still being assessed. Several households have been displaced, and the emotional and financial toll on the affected residents is expected to be substantial. As of the time of reporting, the GNFS has not yet identified the official cause of the fire, nor has a formal valuation of the property damage been released. Investigators are currently on the ground to gather evidence and interview witnesses to determine the origin of the blaze. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by emergency services in navigating urban residential areas during fire outbreaks. As the community of Labadi Wireless begins the process of recovery, the GNFS has reiterated the need for residents to adhere to fire safety protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Further updates are expected as the national fire investigators conclude their assessment of the site and provide a comprehensive report on the disaster.

Professor Jason Arday's Sudden Passing Mourned by UK Political and Academic Leaders
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Professor Jason Arday's Sudden Passing Mourned by UK Political and Academic Leaders

The academic community and political leaders are expressing profound shock following the sudden death of Professor Jason Arday, a former Cambridge professor and trailblazing educator. Arday, whose body was discovered in Battersea, south London, on a Friday afternoon, was widely celebrated for his historic achievement as one of the youngest Black professors at the prestigious University of Cambridge. His death marks the loss of a significant voice in the study of race and education, leaving a void in the academic landscape that colleagues say will be difficult to fill. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham led the tributes, describing the professor’s passing as a 'tragedy on so many levels.' Burnham emphasized the weight of this loss, noting that Arday’s journey and his contributions to the discourse on social mobility and equality were deeply influential. The Mayor called for a 'moment for reflection' to honor Arday’s legacy and the barriers he broke throughout his career. This sentiment has been echoed by many who saw Arday not just as an academic, but as a symbol of possibility for underrepresented groups in higher education. As the news of his passing continues to resonate, the focus has shifted to the lasting impact of his work and the inspiration he provided to students and fellow academics alike. Arday’s rise within the British academic system was a testament to his intellect and perseverance, and his loss is felt across various sectors of society. While the details surrounding the discovery in Battersea remain a point of somber discussion, the priority for many is ensuring that his contributions to social justice and educational reform are remembered and built upon by future generations.

ECG Schedules Maintenance and Repairs Following Power Outages in Accra West and Central Regions
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ECG Schedules Maintenance and Repairs Following Power Outages in Accra West and Central Regions

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has officially notified the public regarding a series of power outages affecting various communities across the Accra West and Central regions. These disruptions stem from a combination of technical cable faults requiring urgent attention and scheduled maintenance works aimed at upgrading the power distribution network. The company has emphasized that while some outages were unforeseen, others are part of a broader strategy to improve overall service reliability for its customers in the southern part of the country. In the Accra West operational area, residents have experienced unplanned outages specifically attributed to localized cable faults. According to ECG reports, a significant fault in the New Bortianor area has disrupted supply to the community and its immediate surroundings. Similarly, a separate technical fault identified at Dansoman Kitkat has impacted several localities within that vicinity. Technical teams from the ECG are currently on-site working to rectify these faults and restore power to the affected households and businesses as quickly as possible. Beyond the emergency repairs in Accra, the ECG has also announced a comprehensive schedule for planned maintenance activities within the Central Region. These works are slated to take place over two days, specifically on August 18 and August 19. During this period, residents in the designated maintenance zones should anticipate temporary power interruptions. The company explained that these scheduled activities are essential for the long-term health of the grid and to prevent future unplanned breakdowns, thereby enhancing the quality of electricity supply to the region. As the maintenance window approaches, the ECG has advised its customers in the affected areas to make the necessary preparations for the disruptions and to treat all electrical installations as live, as power could be restored at any time during the day. The utility provider expressed its commitment to completing both the emergency repairs and the planned maintenance within the shortest possible timeframes to minimize inconvenience. These infrastructure works are part of the utility's goal to ensure that the national grid remains robust and capable of supporting the energy needs of all Ghanaians.

State of one of the vehicles after the collision
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Accra-Kumasi Highway Fatality and Western North Collision Highlight Increasing Road Safety Concerns

A fatal accident on the Accra-Kumasi Highway and a near-miss collision in the Western North Region have once again highlighted the critical issue of road safety in Ghana. These incidents, occurring on major transit routes, resulted in one confirmed death and numerous injuries, prompting renewed calls for caution among motorists. Emergency services were deployed to both scenes to manage the aftermath and assist the victims, as authorities begin investigations into the specific causes of each crash. On the Accra-Kumasi N6 highway, a tragic collision near Paradise Restaurant claimed the life of a female passenger and left 14 others with various degrees of injury. The accident occurred around 7:30 p.m. when a MAN Diesel truck, in an attempt to provide space for an overtaking vehicle, veered into the opposite lane. This maneuver led to a direct impact with an oncoming Toyota Hiace. First responders who arrived at the scene shortly after a distress call provided medical attention to the survivors and confirmed the fatality, with the injured being transported to nearby facilities for further treatment. In a separate incident on August 13, 2026, twenty-one travellers narrowly escaped death following a crash at the Lineso Barrier in the Western North Region. A Sprinter bus, transporting passengers from Bibiani to Kumasi, collided with a private Hyundai car that reportedly crossed its path unexpectedly. Despite the impact, all 21 passengers—including three children—managed to survive the ordeal. While immediate details on the extent of vehicle damage and specific minor injuries remain limited, the incident has caused significant concern among local residents and commuters frequenting the Bibiani-Kumasi route. The Ghana Police Service and road safety authorities have launched investigations into both occurrences to determine the exact circumstances and potential negligence involved. These accidents underscore the persistent dangers on Ghana’s highways, particularly the N6 corridor, which remains one of the busiest and most accident-prone routes in the country. As the government under President John Mahama continues to address infrastructure and transport safety, officials are urging drivers to adhere strictly to speed limits and exercise maximum patience to prevent further loss of life on the nation's roads.

Kumasi: 22-year-old man jailed 10 years for robbery
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Ashanti Region Courts Jail Two Young Men for Violent Robberies in Kumasi and Asokore Mampong

Two young men have been sentenced to a combined 25 years in prison with hard labour by separate courts in the Ashanti Region after being convicted of robbery-related offenses. The sentences, handed down in August 2026, follow distinct incidents that both occurred on July 21, 2026, underscoring the judiciary's commitment to swift justice in the region. These cases involve 22-year-old Christian Owusu and 19-year-old Ahmed Mustapha, both of whom were apprehended following investigations by local police commands. In the first case, Christian Owusu was sentenced to 10 years in prison with hard labour by the Atasemanso Circuit Court in Kumasi. Presided over by Judge Kwaku Baah Frimpong, the court heard how Owusu threatened and robbed a woman of her handbag and cash while she was on her way to the Konkromase township. Owusu was arrested on August 4, 2026, and pleaded guilty to the charges, asking the court for forgiveness. The court applied the minimum statutory sentence for the crime, and Owusu has since been moved to the Kumasi Central Prisons to begin his term. In a more severe ruling at the Asokore Mampong District Court, 19-year-old Ahmed Mustapha received a 15-year sentence with hard labour. Mustapha’s conviction stemmed from a robbery in the Asabi area where he not only stole from his victim but also caused significant physical harm using a cutlass. Judge Vida Achiaa Yeboah delivered the judgment on August 10, 2026, reflecting the gravity of the violent assault. The harsher sentence in this instance reflects the additional charge of causing harm alongside the act of robbery. These convictions represent a significant success for the Ashanti Central District Police and the broader Ghana Police Service in their efforts to curb street crime and ensure public safety. The quick turnaround from the date of the crimes to the final sentencing demonstrates an efficient judicial process aimed at deterring potential offenders in the region. Legal experts suggest that these sentences serve as a firm reminder of the stiff penalties associated with violent crime under Ghanaian law, particularly when weapons are involved or physical injury is inflicted on victims.

Ghana Police Apprehend Labone GCB Robbery Suspect Augustine Okechukwu Maazi in Dramatic Operation
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Ghana Police Apprehend Labone GCB Robbery Suspect Augustine Okechukwu Maazi in Dramatic Operation

The Ghana Police Service has successfully apprehended Augustine Okechukwu Maazi, a key suspect linked to the recently foiled robbery attempt at the GCB Bank branch in Labone. Footage of the dramatic "Rambo-style" arrest has since gone viral on social media platforms, capturing the high-stakes moment the suspect was tracked down and taken into custody by law enforcement officers. The operation marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the attempted heist that targeted one of the capital's busy financial hubs. Detailed video evidence, which has been widely circulated on platforms such as X, shows tactical units from the Ghana Police Service extracting Maazi from a concealed hideout. In the intense recording, the suspect is seen being forcibly removed from his hiding spot and escorted under heavy guard to a waiting white police pickup truck. The precision and force displayed during the apprehension have sparked widespread public interest and discussions regarding the police's heightened response to violent crime in Accra. The arrest follows the initial failed heist at the Labone GCB Bank, an incident that put the surrounding business district on high alert. While the robbery was successfully thwarted by security forces on-site, the capture of Maazi is considered a critical breakthrough for authorities as they work to identify and prosecute all individuals involved in the criminal plot. The swift nature of the apprehension underscores the intensified efforts by the police to crack down on organized crime and ensure the safety of the banking sector. Following the arrest, Maazi remains in police custody as investigations continue to uncover further details of the planned robbery. The Ghana Police Service is expected to provide formal updates as the legal process unfolds and as they continue their sweep for any potential accomplices. This successful operation is being viewed as a demonstration of the police's readiness to tackle armed robbery, though it also highlights the persistent security challenges facing urban financial institutions.

Manhyia Palace Issues Immediate Ban on Unauthorized Drone and UAV Operations
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Manhyia Palace Issues Immediate Ban on Unauthorized Drone and UAV Operations

Manhyia Palace, the historic seat of the Asantehene, has announced an immediate and comprehensive ban on the operation of unauthorized drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) within its premises and the surrounding vicinity. This directive, which officially took effect on August 15, 2026, seeks to regulate aerial activities around the palace to ensure heightened security and respect for the privacy of the royal household. The palace administration has warned that any individual or organization intending to fly drones in the restricted zone must obtain formal authorization from the palace or relevant authorities before commencement. According to the directive, which was communicated through the palace’s official Facebook page, unauthorized aerial maneuvers will no longer be tolerated under any circumstances. The palace emphasized that security protocols have been updated to enforce this rule strictly. Violators of this new policy face severe repercussions, including the immediate confiscation of their equipment and the possibility of legal action. The restriction applies not only to the main palace grounds but also to the immediate vicinity, creating a clear buffer zone intended to preserve the sanctity and order of the royal residence. This move comes as drone technology becomes increasingly accessible to the public, often used for filming cultural events and ceremonies without prior coordination with traditional authorities. By requiring prior approval, Manhyia aims to manage the growing frequency of these flights and mitigate potential security risks. Drone operators, content creators, and media houses are urged to contact the palace administration to secure the necessary permissions well in advance to avoid disruptions or legal complications during events or visits to the Ashanti regional capital, Kumasi. This policy reflects a broader trend of traditional institutions asserting control over their physical and digital airspace in the modern technological era.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Confirms Death of Ghanaian Evacuee Following Repatriation Flight from South Africa
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Ministry of Foreign Affairs Confirms Death of Ghanaian Evacuee Following Repatriation Flight from South Africa

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has confirmed the tragic death of a Ghanaian national shortly after arriving at Kotoka International Airport on Friday, August 14, 2026. The individual was part of a cohort of 50 Ghanaian citizens being repatriated from South Africa as part of a formal government-led evacuation exercise. According to official reports, the passenger was aboard an Air Tanzania flight that touched down in the capital at approximately 5:50 p.m., but what was intended to be a safe return home turned into a medical emergency before the aircraft could even reach the tarmac. Witnesses and airport officials noted that the individual’s health began to deteriorate significantly approximately 30 minutes before the flight landed. Upon the aircraft’s arrival, emergency medical personnel were already on standby at the airport to provide immediate assistance. Despite intensive efforts by the medical team to stabilize the passenger’s condition and provide life-saving intervention, the returnee was pronounced dead at 6:55 p.m., just over an hour after landing. The swift response at the airport highlights the preparedness of the emergency health teams, though the severity of the passenger's condition ultimately proved fatal. In an official statement released following the incident, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its deepest condolences to the bereaved family and the general public. The remains of the deceased have since been transported to the Police Hospital in Accra, where an autopsy will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death. The Ministry has emphasized that it is following all necessary protocols to formally notify the family before releasing further personal details. While the specific reasons for this particular evacuation from South Africa have not been fully disclosed to the public, the government remains committed to the welfare of its citizens abroad under the leadership of President John Mahama. This tragic incident has raised concerns regarding the health screening protocols for evacuees prior to boarding long-haul flights during repatriation exercises. As the Ministry continues its investigation into the matter, further details are expected to emerge regarding the circumstances that necessitated the evacuation and whether any other passengers required medical attention during the journey. For now, the focus of the administration remains on supporting the grieving family and completing the medical examinations required by law. The government is expected to provide a more comprehensive briefing once the autopsy results are available and the family has been properly consulted.

Ghana Prisons Service Launches Manhunt for 29-Year-Old Convict Peter Kyeremeh Following Escape
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Ghana Prisons Service Launches Manhunt for 29-Year-Old Convict Peter Kyeremeh Following Escape

The Ghana Prisons Service has officially declared 29-year-old Peter Kyeremeh wanted after his escape from lawful custody. Kyeremeh was serving a five-year prison sentence for charges related to unlawful entry and stealing at the time of his disappearance. Authorities have now mobilized search teams and are calling on the general public to provide any credible leads that could result in his swift recapture as law enforcement agencies intensify their efforts across the country. Kyeremeh, who was sentenced to serve his term with hard labour, is described by prison officials as being fair-complexioned and of a slim build. While the specific circumstances surrounding the breach of security and the exact location of the escape have not been fully detailed in the initial public alerts, the Service is treating the matter with high priority. This incident underscores the ongoing vigilance required by correctional officers and the importance of community involvement in maintaining public safety and judicial integrity. The Ghana Prisons Service has issued a stern advisory to the public, cautioning citizens against attempting to approach or apprehend the escapee directly. Instead, individuals who may have information regarding his whereabouts or who have spotted a person matching his description are urged to report immediately to the nearest police station. Alternatively, the public can contact the Ghana Prisons Service directly through their dedicated line at 0506232978. Cooperation from the public is considered vital to ensuring the convict is returned to custody to complete his legally mandated sentence.

At Least 20 Dead as Massive 7.7-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Indonesia’s Flores Region
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At Least 20 Dead as Massive 7.7-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Indonesia’s Flores Region

A massive 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Indonesia’s Flores region in East Nusa Tenggara province, resulting in at least 20 confirmed deaths and six injuries. The powerful tremor triggered immediate panic among residents, many of whom evacuated buildings and fled to higher ground as initial tsunami warnings were issued across the coastal areas. Although the tsunami alerts were later lifted after monitoring showed no significant sea-level rise, the destruction on land remains severe, with emergency teams struggling to reach the most affected zones. The earthquake's epicenter was located approximately 68 kilometers north-northwest of Ende, and its impact has caused widespread structural damage. Reports indicate that the town of Maumere was particularly hard hit, with multiple buildings and religious sites collapsing under the force of the quake. Search and rescue operations are currently underway to locate at least two individuals known to remain trapped under the rubble. However, these efforts are being significantly hindered by landslides and the disruption of communication networks, which have left some communities isolated. This latest seismic event highlights Indonesia’s ongoing vulnerability to natural disasters due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area known for frequent tectonic activity. As disaster management officials continue to assess the full extent of the damage, the priority remains the provision of medical aid to the injured and the restoration of essential services. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as rescue teams penetrate deeper into the affected areas and clearer information on the total casualty count becomes available.

Emmanuel Adotey Allotey (3rd from right), Ga Central Municipal Chief Executive, presenting a student mattress to a flood victim.
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NADMO Commemorates Late Deputy Director-General Samuel Aboagye While Scaling Up Flood Relief for 11,000 Residents

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has marked a significant period of both reflection and active humanitarian service, holding a one-year memorial for its late Deputy Director-General while simultaneously spearheading major relief efforts for flood victims in the Greater Accra Region. These concurrent activities highlight the organization's commitment to honoring its institutional legacy while addressing the urgent needs of over 11,000 citizens displaced or affected by recent environmental challenges. The dual focus underscores the essential role NADMO continues to play in Ghana’s national safety and recovery framework. In a moving tribute held in October 2026, NADMO management, staff, and family members gathered to honor the memory of Mr. Samuel Aboagye, the former Deputy Director-General who tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash on August 7, 2025. The memorial service, led by Rev. Felix Hinson, featured a wreath-laying ceremony at his graveside, scripture readings, and heartfelt tributes. Director-General Major (Rtd) Dr. Joseph Bikanyi Kuyon reflected on the tragedy's lasting impact, emphasizing that Mr. Aboagye’s values and dedicated service remain a cornerstone of the organization’s mission even a year after his untimely passing. Parallel to these commemorative events, the Ga Central Municipal Assembly, in close collaboration with NADMO, has intensified its field operations to support those hit by recent flooding. At a distribution event in Antieku, Municipal Chief Executive Emmanuel Adotey Allotey oversaw the donation of vital relief items, including mattresses, rice, and mosquito nets, to more than 11,000 affected residents. The assembly noted that the scale of the intervention was designed to provide immediate stabilization for families who lost their livelihoods and personal belongings during the deluge. Beyond the provision of physical goods, MCE Emmanuel Adotey Allotey assured victims that the government is taking comprehensive steps toward long-term recovery, including the issuance of new health insurance cards to replace those lost in the floods. This administrative support, combined with the rapid response from local health authorities, aims to prevent secondary health crises in the aftermath of the disaster. As NADMO continues to balance its internal healing with external service, the organization remains focused on strengthening community resilience across the region.