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.

Nana Kwaku Bonsam Reveals Childhood Near-Death Experience While Disaster Fraudster Mawuli Issues Public Apology
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Nana Kwaku Bonsam Reveals Childhood Near-Death Experience While Disaster Fraudster Mawuli Issues Public Apology

Recent public disclosures in Ghana have brought contrasting stories of personal tragedy to the forefront, ranging from the genuine childhood survival of a prominent traditional priest to the exposure of a fraudulent claim regarding a sensitive national disaster. Nana Kwaku Bonsam, a well-known spiritual figure, has shared a harrowing account of a childhood fire that nearly cost him his life, while a man named Mawuli has been forced to apologize after being caught faking injuries purportedly sustained during the 2015 June 3 twin disaster in Accra. During a recent interview on Asemoa FM, Nana Kwaku Bonsam recounted the events of a tragic fire at his family home that left him with severe burns. He explained that the incident occurred after his father brought home a small container he believed contained diesel, which subsequently led to a volatile and dangerous fire. Bonsam revealed that the resulting injuries were so extensive that he was nearly buried alive, a recollection that sheds light on the significant physical and psychological challenges he faced during his formative years before rising to national prominence as a traditional priest. In a contrasting development, the integrity of disaster-related narratives has come under scrutiny following the public confession of a man named Mawuli. For a period, Mawuli had presented himself as a survivor of the June 3 twin disaster—a catastrophic event in Accra involving a gas station explosion and flooding that resulted in multiple fatalities and massive property destruction. Mawuli admitted to using crutches to support his deception, a ruse that was eventually exposed by his landlady. Following the revelation of his fraud, he issued a formal apology to the Ghanaian public for his actions. These two stories highlight the significant role that personal history and survival narratives play in the Ghanaian public sphere. While Kwaku Bonsam’s account adds a layer of human resilience to his public persona, the exposure of Mawuli serves as a sobering reminder of the ethical breaches involving the exploitation of national grief. The June 3 disaster remains a deeply sensitive subject, and this incident underscores the importance of communal vigilance in ensuring that the memory of genuine victims is not undermined by fraudulent claims.

GRIDCo Issues 30-Day Vacation Notice to Ashanti Region Transmission Line Encroachers
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GRIDCo Issues 30-Day Vacation Notice to Ashanti Region Transmission Line Encroachers

The Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo), in collaboration with the Information Services Department (ISD), has launched an intensive 12-day sensitisation exercise across the Ashanti Region to address the growing concern of encroachment on high-voltage transmission corridors. This strategic initiative is designed to educate residents, traders, and artisans about the severe life-threatening risks associated with operating beneath or near power lines. As part of the exercise, GRIDCo has issued a formal 30-day ultimatum to all illegal occupants within the transmission "Right of Way" to vacate the premises or face potential enforcement actions. The exercise comes in response to a surge in unauthorized structures and activities within the grid's buffer zones, which pose significant operational and safety challenges. GRIDCo officials emphasized that these high-voltage lines carry substantial electrical loads, creating electromagnetic fields and the potential for lethal electrical arcs. Beyond the immediate danger to human life, encroachment hinders the utility company's ability to conduct routine maintenance and respond rapidly to emergency repairs during grid failures. Clearing these corridors is essential for maintaining the integrity of the national power system and ensuring a stable electricity supply for the region. During the initial phases of the sensitisation tour, many affected residents and business owners acknowledged the inherent dangers of their proximity to the high-tension cables. However, the move has also sparked concerns regarding the economic impact on local livelihoods. Many of those operating within these zones, including mechanics and petty traders, have expressed a need for alternative sites to relocate their businesses to avoid total loss of income. While GRIDCo remains firm on the 30-day deadline to ensure public safety, the dialogue highlights the complex tension between infrastructure protection and the socio-economic realities of urban development in Ghana's commercial hubs. As the 12-day campaign progresses, the ISD will continue to use mobile vans and community engagement sessions to spread awareness throughout the affected districts. GRIDCo has indicated that once the 30-day grace period expires, it will assess the situation to ensure the identified zones are cleared of all structures. This enforcement action is part of a broader national effort to secure utility corridors and prevent avoidable disasters, such as fires or electrocutions. The company continues to urge all citizens to prioritize safety over convenience to support a resilient and reliable national power infrastructure.

Ghana Security Watch: Police Arrest Military Impersonator in Ashaiman as Murder Trial Proceeds in Ivan Baidoo Case
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Ghana Security Watch: Police Arrest Military Impersonator in Ashaiman as Murder Trial Proceeds in Ivan Baidoo Case

Ghana's security landscape remains a focal point of public discourse following two significant legal developments: the arrest of a serial impersonator in Ashaiman and the ongoing murder trial of a police officer linked to the death of a young man. These incidents, though distinct, have reignited conversations regarding public safety and the accountability of those in uniform. In the first case, the Tema Regional Police Command successfully apprehended a 32-year-old ex-convict, Bright Atsu Kudiabor, for allegedly posing as a soldier to extort residents. Meanwhile, the family of 20-year-old Ivan Apprey Baidoo continues to seek justice as they lay their son to rest, following his tragic death during a police encounter. The arrest in Ashaiman took place on September 16, 2025, in the area known as 'I Shall Return.' Bright Atsu Kudiabor was found wearing military camouflage and was accused of using the disguise to intimidate and extort money from local citizens. Kudiabor is a known repeat offender who had previously been apprehended by the Ghana National Fire Service. The Tema Police, in collaboration with the Ashaiman divisional unit, took him into custody following reports from the community. Authorities have since urged the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious individuals claiming to be security personnel, emphasizing the risk such impersonators pose to community safety and the reputation of the Ghana Armed Forces. In a separate but equally prominent case, a sense of grief and a demand for accountability dominated the burial service of Ivan Apprey Baidoo. His father, Evans Baidoo Esq., has publicly accused General Corporal Robert Katey Koranteng of the Ghana Police Service of murdering his son. The incident stemmed from a police chase after the motorcycle Ivan was riding reportedly ran a red light. The family claims that Corporal Koranteng failed to offer medical assistance after the ensuing crash, an omission they believe was fatal. The officer is currently facing formal murder charges as the investigation into the circumstances of the chase and its fatal conclusion continues to unfold in the courts. These two cases represent the diverse challenges facing the Ghanaian justice system, from the prevention of civilian criminal activity to the internal policing of the security services. While the swift arrest of the Ashaiman impersonator highlights proactive community policing, the Baidoo family's quest for justice underscores the need for stringent adherence to professional protocols during law enforcement operations. As both legal proceedings move forward, the Ghanaian public remains expectant that the rule of law will prevail, ensuring both the removal of fraudulent actors from the streets and the accountability of state officials who overstep their mandate.

A delegation from the Parliamentary Select Committee on Water and Sanitation addresses the media during a site visit in Ghana. The officials are seen wearing protective blue hairnets and high-visibility safety vests while speaking into several microphones from major news outlets like Joy News and Channel One TV.
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Parliamentary Select Committee Names Volta Region Cleanest in Ghana Amid Infrastructure Challenges

The Parliamentary Select Committee on Water and Sanitation has officially recognized the Volta Region as the cleanest region visited during its ongoing nationwide monitoring of waste management facilities. Led by Chairman John Oti Bless, the committee praised regional stakeholders for their relative success in maintaining sanitation standards, especially when compared to the severe challenges observed in other parts of the country. This commendation came during a high-level inspection tour of the Ho Integrated Recycling and Compost Plant (IRECOP), where lawmakers assessed the region's capacity for processing urban waste into reusable materials. Despite this accolade, the region continues to grapple with significant logistical and structural barriers that limit its total waste management efficiency. The Volta Region generates approximately 268,000 tonnes of solid waste annually; however, only 60 percent of this volume is currently being collected, and a mere 2 percent is successfully recycled. These figures underscore a gap between the region’s public cleanliness and its industrial resource recovery capabilities. Officials identified poor road infrastructure and a lack of engineered landfill sites as the primary factors preventing waste management services from reaching their full potential. The Ho Integrated Recycling and Compost Plant (IRECOP) serves as a critical hub for the region's sanitation strategy, currently capturing 65 percent of the local waste stream. However, this performance remains below the facility’s 85 percent operational target. During the visit, stakeholders highlighted that the absence of strategically located transfer stations forces waste collection vehicles to travel long distances over deteriorating roads, increasing costs and reducing collection frequency. To bridge this gap, the committee emphasized the urgent need for public education campaigns focused on waste separation at the source, which would streamline the recycling process and reduce the burden on existing facilities. Looking toward future improvements, the Parliamentary Select Committee expressed strong support for the proposed National Sanitation Authority Bill. Lawmakers believe this legislation will provide the necessary regulatory framework and funding to enhance sanitation management across all 16 regions of Ghana. For the Volta Region to maintain its status as a leader in cleanliness, the committee concluded that the government must prioritize investments in road access to waste sites and the development of modern landfill infrastructure. These steps are deemed essential for transitioning from basic waste collection to a fully integrated and sustainable circular economy.

Fatal Fire Outbreak in Okochiri Claims Lives of Mother and Three Children
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Fatal Fire Outbreak in Okochiri Claims Lives of Mother and Three Children

A devastating fire outbreak in the Okochiri community of Rivers State, Nigeria, has resulted in the tragic deaths of a mother and her three children. The incident occurred in the early hours of Friday morning, October 6, 2023, leaving the local neighborhood in the Okrika region in a state of deep shock and mourning. The family was reportedly caught in the blaze while asleep, which prevented them from escaping the rapidly spreading flames that gutted their home. While the specific cause of the inferno has yet to be officially determined by fire investigators, the community’s response was immediate and courageous. Local youth in the Okochiri area mobilized quickly to combat the fire, eventually succeeding in extinguishing the flames before they could engulf adjacent properties. Despite their heroic efforts to suppress the fire using available resources, they were unable to reach the mother and her children in time to save them from the fatal heat and smoke. Authorities in Rivers State are expected to conduct a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the outbreak to determine if it was caused by an electrical fault or other domestic hazards. This tragedy underscores the urgent need for increased fire safety awareness and the implementation of better emergency response protocols within residential communities. As the Okochiri community gathers to support the grieving relatives, the event serves as a somber reminder of the devastating impact of residential fires and the importance of fire prevention measures in the home.

Ghana Armed Forces Hands Over 175.6km Cleared Corridor for Accra-Kumasi Expressway
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Ghana Armed Forces Hands Over 175.6km Cleared Corridor for Accra-Kumasi Expressway

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has reached a significant milestone in national infrastructure development by officially handing over the cleared right of way for the Accra-Kumasi Expressway project. Following an intensive 19-week operation, the military successfully prepared a 175.6-kilometer corridor, marking the conclusion of the preliminary phase necessary for the commencement of major construction works on this vital transit route. The handover signifies the transition of the project site from the military to the central government for the next stage of execution. The clearing operation was spearheaded by the 48 Engineers Regiment, a specialized unit known for its technical expertise in civil and military engineering. Over the course of nearly five months, the regiment worked to ensure the project corridor was free of obstructions, providing a clean slate for the government’s contractors. A notable highlight of this phase was the contribution of a lone female engineer within the regiment who was central to the successful clearance of the 175.6km stretch, showcasing the professional diversity and technical capability currently within the GAF’s engineering ranks. This handover represents a critical step for the Accra-Kumasi Expressway, a project designed to ease traffic congestion, reduce travel time, and improve road safety between Ghana's two largest economic hubs. By utilizing the 48 Engineers Regiment for the right-of-way clearance, the government has leveraged military efficiency to ensure the project remains on schedule. With the corridor now officially prepared, the next phase will involve the mobilization of construction firms to begin the actual building of the expressway, bringing the nation closer to a modernized transport network.

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Association of Methodist Men’s Fellowship Opens 14th Biennial Delegates Conference in Tema

The Association of Methodist Men’s Fellowship (AMMF) of the Methodist Church Ghana has officially commenced its 14th Biennial Delegates Conference in Tema. The gathering serves as a critical platform for the fellowship to review its operational progress, evaluate its spiritual impact, and determine the strategic direction for its future initiatives. Connexional Chairman Mr. Ebenezer Anowih presided over the opening, emphasizing the fellowship's role in the broader mission of the church and the need for continued dedication among its members. A major highlight of the conference was the report of substantial financial growth and successful infrastructure development. Mr. Anowih announced that revenue from the Men’s Day celebration reached GH¢964,670.77, representing a notable 28% increase compared to 2024 figures. This financial boost has been instrumental in supporting the fellowship’s various capital projects, most notably the 40th Anniversary Pavilion, which is now nearing completion. The chairman noted that such resources are vital for sustaining the association’s physical infrastructure and its capacity to host large-scale evangelical programs. Beyond financial achievements, the conference focused on strengthening the fellowship’s governance and outreach effectiveness. Delegates approved essential revisions to the association's 2017 by-laws to ensure that its regulatory framework remains aligned with contemporary needs. Furthermore, Mr. Anowih called for a more rigorous approach to the fellowship’s core mission, stressing the importance of improving the statistical tracking of annual diocesan evangelism efforts. He argued that more precise measurement of their impact is necessary to refine outreach strategies and ensure effective spiritual growth within the community. As Mr. Anowih nears the conclusion of his three-year tenure, he used the occasion to urge delegates to exercise high responsibility in the upcoming leadership elections. He emphasized that the sustained growth and spiritual health of the AMMF depend on electing committed, visionary leaders dedicated to the association's long-term expansion. The conference is expected to conclude with a renewed commitment to the fellowship's founding principles and a clear roadmap for the next biennial cycle.

David Adadevoh , Ghanaian Times
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David Adadevoh Appointed Editor of Ghanaian Times Following 18-Year Tenure

David Adadevoh has been officially appointed as the Editor of the Ghanaian Times, marking a significant milestone in a career that has spanned nearly two decades within the New Times Corporation. His appointment, which takes effect immediately, comes after a successful stint as the acting Editor since February 2026. During his time in the acting role, Adadevoh was responsible for overseeing the newspaper's comprehensive editorial processes and representing the publication at high-level national and international engagements, demonstrating the leadership qualities required for the substantive position. Adadevoh’s journey with the Ghanaian Times began in 2007 when he first joined the New Times Corporation. Over the past 18 years, he has steadily risen through the ranks, gaining deep operational experience in various newsroom capacities, including roles as a senior reporter and deputy editor. His long-term commitment to the institution has provided him with an intimate understanding of the newspaper's core values and editorial standards, making him a natural choice to lead the newsroom into its next chapter. Beyond his practical experience, Adadevoh brings a robust academic and professional background to the role. He holds a Master’s degree in Public Affairs and has sought out specialized international training to refine his craft. His credentials include specialized coursework in economic journalism completed in Germany in 2007 and participation in the prestigious Wharton Seminars for Business Journalists in 2010. These academic foundations, combined with his membership in the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), underscore his preparedness for the complexities of modern editorial management. Recognized early in his career for his potential, Adadevoh was named the runner-up for the GJA’s Young Promising Journalist of the Year award in 2013. His official elevation to Editor is expected to provide the Ghanaian Times with stable, experienced leadership focused on maintaining journalistic excellence. As the media landscape continues to evolve, Adadevoh is tasked with guiding the state-owned daily toward continued relevance and authority in its reporting on national and global affairs.

Police intercept 2,213 slabs of suspected Indian hemp on River Volta
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Ghana Police Service Intensifies Narcotics Crackdown with Major Interceptions on River Volta and in Wa

The Ghana Police Service has recorded significant successes in its ongoing fight against drug trafficking, following two major operations that led to the seizure of substantial quantities of narcotics. In a joint operation on the River Volta, the Tema Regional Police Command and the Marine Police Detachment intercepted over 2,200 slabs of suspected Indian hemp. Meanwhile, in the Upper West Region, authorities confirmed the first major cocaine bust in Wa, involving nearly 200 wraps of the illicit substance. These operations underscore a heightened state of vigilance across the country's transit points as security agencies move to dismantle burgeoning trafficking networks. On the River Volta, the interception occurred on September 17 during a routine patrol near Ada. Police encountered a wooden canoe carrying 29 sacks which, upon inspection, were found to contain 2,213 slabs of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp. Although the occupants of the vessel managed to escape by fleeing into the surrounding terrain, they left behind the contraband along with 14 gallons of pre-mixed fuel and two Yamaha outboard motors. The seized items have been transferred to the Ada District Police Headquarters for further investigation, and the police are actively seeking information from the public to help identify and apprehend the suspects. Simultaneously, the Upper West Regional Police Command has dealt a blow to drug distributors in Wa after a forensic examination confirmed that 192 wraps retrieved from two suspects were cocaine. The suspects, including an individual identified as SK, were arrested at the ESP Bus Terminal on September 6. This incident has raised alarms within the regional command as it represents the first confirmed case of cocaine trafficking in the area. Police leadership has indicated that intelligence operations are being significantly enhanced to determine if this bust signals a new trend in the geographical distribution of hard drugs within Ghana. In response to these developments, the Upper West Regional Police Commander, DCOP Francis Yiribaare, has issued a stern warning to the transport sector. He emphasized that the law allows for the seizure of any vehicle found to be transporting illegal drugs, regardless of whether the owner was directly involved in the crime. Authorities are urging commercial vehicle owners and drivers to exercise extreme caution and conduct thorough checks to ensure their vehicles are not being exploited by traffickers. The police have reaffirmed their commitment to strictly enforcing narcotics laws and continue to call for public cooperation in reporting suspicious activities.

Upper East Police Dismantle Violent Robbery Gang Linked to Officer's Murder and Serial Attacks
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Upper East Police Dismantle Violent Robbery Gang Linked to Officer's Murder and Serial Attacks

The Upper East Regional Police Command has successfully dismantled a notorious robbery syndicate responsible for a wave of violent crimes across the Zebilla, Garu, and Binduri districts. The crackdown involved a high-stakes encounter in the Tilly Forest and a series of intelligence-led raids, resulting in the deaths of three suspects and the arrest of seven others. This gang is specifically linked to the tragic killing of a police officer in Zebilla in February 2026, as well as numerous targeted attacks on mobile money vendors and motorbike riders. During the operation in Tilly Forest, a fierce gunfight erupted between security forces and the suspected criminals. The three suspects involved sustained fatal injuries and were later pronounced dead at a hospital. Following the shootout, police recovered a cache of firearms and ammunition. Authorities have indicated that this specific cell was responsible for a string of assaults that had terrorized local business operators and commuters in the region. The police are now urging the public and medical facilities to report any individuals seeking treatment for suspicious gunshot wounds as they pursue remaining affiliates. In a parallel breakthrough, seven additional suspects, aged between 20 and 41, were apprehended during coordinated raids across the region. These individuals reportedly confessed to being part of a larger criminal network that facilitated the supply of weapons for robberies. Victims of a recent theft involving two motorcycles valued at GH¢62,000 have already identified two of the detainees as their attackers. A subsequent search of the suspects' properties uncovered unregistered motorbikes, various drugs, and significant amounts of cash believed to be proceeds from their illegal activities. The seven surviving suspects have been remanded in custody and are scheduled to make their first court appearance on September 23, 2026. This major law enforcement success is seen as a vital step in restoring security and public confidence in the Upper East Region. The police command has reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing all leads until the entire criminal infrastructure in the area is completely uprooted.

Oti Regional Police Intercept 5,164 Parcels of Suspected Narcotics in Major Intelligence-Led Operation
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Oti Regional Police Intercept 5,164 Parcels of Suspected Narcotics in Major Intelligence-Led Operation

The Oti Regional Police Command has intercepted an articulated truck transporting a massive haul of 5,164 compressed parcels believed to be narcotics. The operation, which took place on September 14, 2026, was the result of a targeted intelligence-led mission aimed at disrupting drug trafficking routes within the region. The vehicle involved, an articulated truck with registration number GE 3906-15, was found to have the illegal substances strategically concealed within specially constructed secret compartments to evade detection during transit. Following the interception, security forces apprehended three individuals at the scene: 35-year-old driver Abdul Razak Adamu, 33-year-old mechanic Jubril Amidu, and 33-year-old driver Aliu Adamu. A fourth suspect managed to evade the police during the operation and remains at large. The three arrested men were subsequently brought before the Dambai Circuit Court on September 17, 2026, where they were remanded into police custody. The court has scheduled their next appearance for October 15, 2026, as the prosecution prepares its case. The Oti Regional Police Command is currently continuing its investigations to determine the origin and intended destination of the suspected narcotics. Law enforcement officials have intensified efforts to locate the fugitive suspect and have called on the public to assist with any information that could lead to an arrest. This significant seizure highlights the ongoing commitment of the Ghana Police Service to combat organized crime and the illegal drug trade, as they work to ensure the safety and security of the region.

Police arrest ex-convict for impersonating soldier, extorting residents at Ashaiman
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Ghanaian Authorities Address National Security Concerns as Traditional Leaders and Diplomats Navigate Regional Stability

Ghanaian law enforcement has intensified efforts to maintain public order and national security through a series of recent arrests targeting both digital and physical crimes. In Techiman, nurse Salomey Awiti Bafoh was remanded for allegedly abetting the spread of false news and inciteful content via the "Ghana Jollof" TikTok account, which reportedly broadcasted claims of a coup attempt at Jubilee House. Simultaneously, the Tema Regional Police Command apprehended 32-year-old Bright Atsu Kudiabor in Ashaiman for impersonating a military officer and extorting money from residents. These domestic enforcement actions coincide with broader regional security issues, including the arrest of twelve individuals in Kampala, Uganda, following a viral video of a teenage assault that sparked widespread public outrage. On the domestic political and traditional front, high-profile figures continue to engage in community reconciliation and diplomatic outreach. Former President John Agyekum Kufuor paid a courtesy call on the new Asantehemaa, Nana Yaa Akyaa II, at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi to reinforce the ties between national leadership and the Ashanti kingdom. In the Ho West District, the Kpedze Traditional Area marked a historic milestone by resolving a 15-year traditional dispute. Led by the District Security Council and Paramount Chief Togbega Kpekpematsor Atsrimdom V, local chiefs performed traditional rites to restore unity. Amidst these developments, Deputy Chief of Staff Nana Oye Bampoe Addo received public support following the loss of two brothers, and the Member of Parliament for Ahafo Ano South West, Elvis Osei Mensah Dapaah, is recovering after a road accident during official duties. Global and religious developments also remain at the forefront of the news landscape. In the Middle East, the US military successfully rescued two crew members whose fighter jet was shot down by Iranian forces, ending a tense two-day operation. Meanwhile, a devastating suicide attack on a mosque in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province resulted in at least 17 deaths, highlighting ongoing regional instability. In diplomatic news, Saudi Arabia has declined Nigeria's request to increase its Hajj quota for 2027, maintaining the limit at 50,000 pilgrims. These international events, coupled with Rev. Stephen Wengam's re-election as General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God Ghana on a platform of organizational loyalty, underscore a global period defined by a search for stability and institutional integrity.