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.

Accident: Two dead, eight injured in Komenda highway crash
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Two Dead and Eight Injured in Fatal Collision on Cape Coast-Takoradi Highway at Dompoase

A tragic road accident on the Cape Coast-Takoradi highway at Dompoase has resulted in the deaths of two individuals and left eight others with varying degrees of injury. The incident occurred when a Toyota Hiace passenger vehicle collided with a broken-down truck. Preliminary reports indicate that the driver of the Hiace was attempting to avoid another vehicle that was overtaking at the time, leading to the fatal impact with the stationary heavy-duty truck. Emergency response teams, including personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service and the National Ambulance Service, arrived promptly at the scene to manage the situation and rescue trapped passengers. Despite their swift efforts, one victim was pronounced dead on-site. A second victim succumbed to their injuries shortly after being extricated from the wreckage of the Toyota Hiace. The intensity of the crash required specialized equipment to remove those trapped within the mangled vehicle. The eight survivors were immediately transported to the Elmina Polyclinic for emergency medical treatment. Medical staff have reported that three of the injured individuals are currently in critical condition, while the remaining five are being monitored for non-life-threatening injuries. Local authorities have commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, focusing on the lack of warning signs around the broken-down truck and the reckless overtaking maneuver that triggered the sequence of events. This latest tragedy adds to the growing concerns regarding road safety on Ghana’s major transit corridors, particularly the Cape Coast-Takoradi stretch. It highlights the persistent danger posed by stationary, disabled vehicles on high-speed highways and the need for stricter enforcement of road hazard regulations. Motorists are once again urged to exercise caution, maintain safe speeds, and ensure that disabled vehicles are properly marked and removed from the roadway to prevent such avoidable loss of life.

Police arrest two over viral video of 12-year-old driving articulated truck
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Ghana Police Service Outlines Multi-Year Recruitment Plan and Enforces Road Safety Laws

The Ghana Police Service (GPS) is currently managing a dual focus on expanding its workforce and strictly enforcing road traffic regulations to ensure national safety. In a significant administrative update, the Service announced that the recruitment exercise for the 2025/2026 cycle will proceed in strategic batches, with the process expected to continue until 2028. This phased approach is designed to ensure thorough vetting and professional integration of new officers into the force during President John Mahama’s current administration. Addressing the thousands of hopeful applicants, the Police administration issued a statement of assurance regarding the ongoing recruitment process. Applicants who are yet to receive invitations for the validation of their documents are urged to remain patient as the process is ongoing. The Service confirmed that successful candidates are being called to designated centers in scheduled groups to facilitate an orderly verification process, highlighting a commitment to transparency and systematic growth within the national security apparatus. Parallel to these administrative efforts, the Police Service has remained active in addressing public safety violations that emerge through digital platforms. This was recently highlighted by the arrest of a 34-year-old man and a 12-year-old boy following the circulation of a viral video. The footage showed the minor at the steering wheel of a DAF XF 105 articulated truck, a heavy-duty vehicle, sparking widespread concern over the disregard for road safety protocols and the legal age requirements for drivers. Following the arrests, the Police Service reminded the general public, specifically vehicle owners and parents, of the grave dangers associated with allowing unlicensed individuals to operate machinery on public roads. Such acts are not only illegal under the Road Traffic Act but also endanger the lives of all road users. The Service continues to encourage citizens to report similar incidents, emphasizing that public cooperation is vital for maintaining law and order on Ghana’s highways while the Service works to expand its personnel capacity over the coming years.

Electricity Company of Ghana Announces Scheduled Power Outages for Airport Area and East Legon
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Electricity Company of Ghana Announces Scheduled Power Outages for Airport Area and East Legon

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has notified residents and businesses in parts of Accra of scheduled power interruptions beginning Sunday, August 2, 2026. These planned outages are necessary to facilitate essential maintenance works aimed at enhancing the reliability and efficiency of the power distribution network. The exercise is expected to affect various high-profile neighborhoods, including the Airport area and East Legon, as the utility provider seeks to improve service delivery across the capital. On Sunday, August 2, customers in the Airport area and neighboring communities will experience a five-hour interruption in supply, starting from 9:00 a.m. and concluding at 2:00 p.m. According to official statements from the company, this specific window has been allocated for technical teams to carry out improvements on the local infrastructure. ECG emphasized that these maintenance activities are part of a broader commitment to ensure a more robust electricity supply for both residential and commercial users in the bustling Airport enclave. The maintenance schedule extends into the following day, Monday, August 3, with a more prolonged outage planned for parts of Accra East. Residents in East Legon, Okponglo, and surrounding areas are advised to prepare for an eight-hour power cut between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. This phase of the maintenance exercise addresses critical components of the grid in some of Accra's most densely populated residential and business hubs, reflecting the ongoing efforts to minimize unannounced outages through proactive system upgrades. Expressing regret for the unavoidable disruption to daily routines and economic activities, the ECG has apologized for any inconvenience these works may cause. The company has urged affected customers to exercise patience as technical crews work to complete the maintenance within the stipulated timeframes. These improvements align with the current energy sector objectives under President John Mahama, focusing on modernizing the national grid and ensuring that electricity supply keeps pace with the growing demands of Ghana’s urban centers.

Sri Lanka Intensifies Prison Security Following Fatal Riot at Overcrowded Mahara Facility
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Sri Lanka Intensifies Prison Security Following Fatal Riot at Overcrowded Mahara Facility

Sri Lankan authorities have significantly bolstered security across the nation's correctional facilities following a deadly riot at the Mahara prison. The unrest, which resulted in the death of one inmate and left six others injured, has once again brought the issue of prison overcrowding and safety into the national spotlight. In the immediate aftermath of the violence, law enforcement and military personnel were deployed to restore order, and a temporary police curfew was enforced in surrounding communities to ensure public safety and prevent further escalation. The disturbance reportedly erupted during family visiting hours, a period intended for inmate-family reconnection that instead turned chaotic. Inmates caused extensive damage to the facility's infrastructure and intentionally set fires that disrupted prison operations. This latest incident is part of a troubling pattern of volatility within the Mahara facility, which currently houses approximately 4,100 inmates. This population figure is staggering when compared to the facility's intended design capacity, representing a fourfold overextension that creates a volatile environment for both staff and detainees. This riot is not an isolated event but rather a symptom of a systemic crisis within Sri Lanka’s penal system. The country’s prisons are currently struggling to manage a total of over 41,000 inmates, far exceeding the total infrastructure's capabilities. This overcrowding has previously led to lethal outcomes; notably, violent clashes in July resulted in multiple fatalities and necessitated direct military intervention to quell the uprisings. The recurring nature of these events highlights the persistent tension and dangerous conditions inherent in the current state of the nation's prisons. While the police curfew in the areas neighboring Mahara has since been lifted, the government remains on high alert. The intensification of security measures, including the integration of police and military support, aims to provide a buffer against future unrest as the state grapples with the long-term challenge of prison reform. Moving forward, authorities are faced with the urgent task of addressing the root causes of this violence—chiefly the severe overcrowding and lack of resources—to prevent further tragedies within the correctional system.

Becky’s Mother Attributes 21-Year-Old’s Death to Alleged Curse Linked to Leaked Workplace Video
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Becky’s Mother Attributes 21-Year-Old’s Death to Alleged Curse Linked to Leaked Workplace Video

The sudden death of a 21-year-old woman, identified as Becky, has left her family and community in a state of shock, as disturbing details emerge regarding the possible circumstances behind her passing. In a series of emotional revelations, Becky’s mother has publicly shared her conviction that her daughter’s life was cut short due to a spiritual curse. This claim follows an incident at Becky’s workplace, where the young woman reportedly became entangled in a controversy involving the unauthorized distribution of private, intimate media. The sequence of events leading to this tragedy allegedly began when an intimate video belonging to one of Becky’s colleagues was leaked. According to her mother’s account, Becky was among those who viewed the video on a coworker’s phone and was subsequently involved in discussions about it with her peers. This breach of privacy and the resulting workplace gossip supposedly drew the ire of an individual associated with the video, leading to the alleged invocation of a curse against the 21-year-old. The mother’s narrative suggests that the spiritual repercussion was a direct response to Becky’s role in the circulation or discussion of the sensitive footage. This tragic situation brings to light the intersection of modern digital challenges and traditional belief systems. In many contemporary settings, the leak of intimate content is treated as a severe violation of privacy and workplace policy; however, in this instance, the family perceives the consequences as transcending physical or legal boundaries. The story has resonated deeply, prompting discussions about the ethics of privacy, the dangers of workplace gossip, and the heavy emotional toll such incidents take on young employees. As the family grapples with their loss, the case remains a stark illustration of how personal disputes in the digital age can spiral into devastating outcomes.

Fatal Helicopter Collision and Wildfires Ravage Greece as UK Crews Secure Nuclear Plant Site
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Fatal Helicopter Collision and Wildfires Ravage Greece as UK Crews Secure Nuclear Plant Site

Firefighting efforts across Europe reached a critical point this week as multiple nations battled devastating wildfires exacerbated by extreme heat and drought. In Greece, the crisis turned fatal when two helicopters collided mid-air while combating a large blaze, claiming two lives. Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, emergency crews have managed to stabilize a significant wildfire burning near the Sizewell B nuclear power station in Suffolk. While conditions have begun to improve in parts of France and Spain, the broader Mediterranean region remains on high alert as fire crews face "titanic" challenges fueled by climate change. The most tragic development occurred approximately 65 kilometers west of Athens, where two Bell helicopters collided while attempting to contain a fire on the Attica-Boeotia border. The accident resulted in the deaths of a Danish pilot and a Greek fire service liaison officer after one helicopter's rotor struck the other, sending both into a ravine. A British pilot and another Greek coordinator miraculously survived the crash with minor injuries. In the wake of the tragedy, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed his deep condolences, and all Bell helicopters in the country have been grounded pending an investigation. The incident underscores the extreme risks faced by the over 500 firefighters currently deployed across Greece, including on the island of Crete, where strong winds have forced further evacuations. In the United Kingdom, more than 100 firefighters and specialized aircraft have spent three days battling a 150-hectare wildfire at Dunwich Heath, situated near the Sizewell B nuclear power station. Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service reported that the situation is finally stabilizing, though it remains dynamic. Despite the proximity of the flames, authorities and plant operators at EDF confirmed that the nuclear facility was never at risk and operations remained unaffected. Approximately 50 residents were evacuated from nearby homes, and while power has been restored to most properties, officials warned that the region’s extreme dry spell—having received only 2% of its average July rainfall—continues to pose a significant fire risk. Across the Aegean, Turkish authorities have mobilized over 3,500 personnel to manage 169 reported fires, most of which are now under control. However, the human toll remains high, with three firefighters confirmed dead in recent operations across the region. In Western Europe, there are signs of relief; the French government reported that 144,000 of the 224,000 people previously evacuated have been able to return home as fire fronts stabilize. Spain has similarly lowered its national emergency level as containment efforts progress, though the Interior Ministry has urged residents to remain cautious as high temperatures persist. The current wave of wildfires across the continent highlights the escalating impact of climate change, with officials pointing to a combination of mild winters and prolonged summer heatwaves as the primary drivers of the crisis. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis described the situation as overwhelming, reflecting a sentiment shared by leaders across the region. As emergency services continue to monitor hotspots and manage the recovery of evacuated communities, the focus remains on long-term prevention and the strengthening of international cooperation to address the increasing frequency of extreme weather events in Europe.

China Landslide Death Toll Rises to 51 as International Tragedies Strike Pakistan and Indonesia
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China Landslide Death Toll Rises to 51 as International Tragedies Strike Pakistan and Indonesia

The death toll from a devastating landslide in southwestern China has risen to 51, with at least ten people still missing following a catastrophic soil collapse in Chongqing. The disaster, which occurred in Pengshui County, was triggered by relentless heavy rainfall that caused boulders and earth to bury more than ten residential buildings. While land-based search and rescue operations have officially concluded, emergency teams continue to scour the Wujiang River in hopes of locating the remaining victims. Such events are increasingly common during China's summer rainy season, which frequently brings deadly floods and geohazards to the region. In a separate tragedy in Pakistan, at least 14 people were killed in a suspected suicide bombing outside a police station in the Kabal area of the Swat district. The casualties include five police officers and eight civilians, with 18 others sustaining various degrees of injury. The explosion occurred during a pro-police rally, though investigators have yet to confirm if the demonstrators were the primary target. Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life, as authorities launched operations to apprehend those who aided the attack. The Pakistani government has linked the recent surge in regional militancy to support from the Afghan Taliban, though officials in Kabul continue to deny these allegations. Maritime safety has also come under scrutiny following a fatal fire aboard the KMP Mutiara Sentosa 2 ferry in Indonesia. The vessel, which was transporting at least 250 passengers from Surabaya to Makassar, caught fire off the coast of Madura Island. The incident resulted in five confirmed deaths, while 41 individuals remain missing. Distress signals were sent early in the morning as the blaze rapidly enveloped the ship, forcing many passengers to jump into the sea or crowd onto the bow and bridge to await rescue. Nearby boats assisted in the recovery of survivors, many of whom were seen in life jackets in harrowing videos captured at the scene. These disparate tragedies across Asia highlight a period of significant human loss attributed to both natural disasters and security failures. From the seasonal climate vulnerabilities in China to the volatile security landscape in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the reported incidents underscore the urgent need for improved disaster response and counter-terrorism measures. As families await word on the dozens still missing in both the Chongqing landslide and the Madura Island ferry fire, local authorities are facing mounting pressure to enhance safety protocols and mitigate the impact of such recurring crises.

The children and the family of the late Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka at the funeral grounds
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Thousands Pay Last Respects to Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka as Family Discord Sparks Public Concern

Thousands of mourners and dignitaries gathered at Independence Square in Accra to pay their final respects to the late Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka, the founder of the Kristo Asafo Mission. The solemn ceremony celebrated the life of a man renowned for his dual contributions to religious leadership and indigenous technological innovation in Ghana. As the nation reflects on his vast legacy, the event served as a focal point for the Kristo Asafo community to honor the visionary leader who bridged the gap between spirituality and engineering. The funeral rites were attended by high-profile figures, including traditional leaders and political figures such as former New Patriotic Party (NPP) National Chairman Freddy Blay. Tributes delivered during the ceremony highlighted Apostle Safo’s pioneering work in manufacturing and his dedication to self-reliance through the Kantanka Group. The three-day ceremony featured traditional customs and vibrant cultural performances, reflecting his deep-seated commitment to Ghanaian heritage. Following the activities in Accra, the final stage of the funeral proceedings is set to conclude in the Ashanti Region, marking the end of an era for his followers. Despite the public outpouring of grief and admiration, the period of mourning has been overshadowed by reports of internal family friction. Broadcast journalist Baaba Cann recently issued a stern public condemnation of the Apostle’s children, specifically addressing public exchanges between Member of Parliament Sarah Adwoa Safo and Kwadwo Safo Kantanka Junior. Speaking on the United Showbiz platform, Cann expressed disappointment over how these disputes have tarnished the respected legacy of their father, arguing that such public disagreements distract from the Apostle's significant contributions to religion, engineering, and national development. The contrast between the massive public celebration of Apostle Safo’s achievements and the reported family discord underscores the complexities of his transition. While the Kristo Asafo Mission and its supporters focus on preserving his technological and spiritual blueprints, critics like Cann are calling for immediate reconciliation within the Kantanka family to protect the integrity of his life's work. As the final rites conclude in the Ashanti Region, the focus remains on whether the family can settle their differences privately and continue the ambitious path of indigenous industrialization set by their late patriarch.

Emergency Services Contain Fire at Wa Islamic Senior High School Dormitory as Students Lose Belongings
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Emergency Services Contain Fire at Wa Islamic Senior High School Dormitory as Students Lose Belongings

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has successfully contained a major fire outbreak at the girls’ dormitory of Wa Islamic Senior High School in the Upper West Region. The blaze, which was first detected shortly after 7:30 pm, prompted an immediate emergency response as students and staff raised the alarm after observing electrical sparks. Two fire tenders were deployed to the scene, and firefighters worked diligently to confine the inferno to a single house within the dormitory complex, preventing it from spreading to nearby structures. While the fire was brought under control within approximately 30 minutes, the damage to personal property has been extensive. Scores of students have been displaced by the incident, with many losing their educational materials and personal belongings. Following the containment of the fire, school authorities have initiated emergency measures to support the affected students. Some have been temporarily relocated to classrooms within the school premises, while others have been allowed to return home for a short period to recover from the trauma and replace essential items. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported, largely due to the timely detection of the sparks and the swift evacuation of the dormitory. This incident at Wa Islamic Senior High School coincides with reports of other domestic fire outbreaks across the country, including a recent blaze at Teshie Penny in the Ledzokuku Municipality. In the Teshie incident, a residential property suffered significant damage to its kitchen and hall, though firefighters from the Trade Fair Fire Station managed to prevent the fire from reaching neighboring homes. These events have heightened concerns regarding fire safety in both institutional and residential settings, emphasizing the need for regular maintenance and inspection of electrical systems. Preliminary investigations into the cause of the Wa Islamic SHS fire are currently underway, with electrical faults being the primary suspect. The Ghana National Fire Service and local education officials are expected to conduct a full assessment of the dormitory's structural integrity before students are permitted to re-occupy the building. In the interim, the public is encouraged to remain vigilant, ensure that electrical installations are properly maintained, and report any signs of fire hazards immediately to the authorities to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Shatta Wale Urges Calm After Safety Concerns and Stampede Force Cancellation of ShattaFest UK
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Shatta Wale Urges Calm After Safety Concerns and Stampede Force Cancellation of ShattaFest UK

ShattaFest UK, a major highlight of the Ghana Party in the Park festivities, was abruptly cancelled by UK police following a dangerous stampede and severe overcrowding. The event, which featured Ghanaian dancehall icon Shatta Wale, saw a massive influx of patrons that quickly exceeded the venue’s approved capacity. Authorities and emergency services were forced to intervene to prevent further escalation, leading to the immediate shutdown of the festival site to ensure public safety. Organisers, Ghana Party in the Park, advised patrons to avoid the grounds while emergency responders managed the site. Chaotic scenes were recorded as thousands of fans attempted to navigate the surge, with video footage showing intense pushing and shoving at the entry points. The crowd surge resulted in multiple injuries, prompting a heavy presence of medical personnel and law enforcement. While early reports were cautious about the extent of the casualties, Shatta Wale’s management later acknowledged the gravity of the situation, expressing profound sadness over reports of injuries and unverified allegations regarding the tragic loss of lives during the incident. In the wake of the cancellation, Shatta Wale has called for restraint and urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information or engaging in speculation. Through a statement issued by his management team, the artist emphasized the importance of allowing law enforcement and event organizers to complete their formal investigations. The team expressed gratitude to the emergency responders for their swift action and pledged full cooperation with the UK authorities to establish a clear account of the security and logistical failures that led to the overcrowding. The cancellation has left thousands of fans in limbo, with no immediate word on whether the event will be rescheduled or if refunds will be processed for ticket holders. This incident has raised significant concerns regarding the planning and execution of large-scale diaspora events in the United Kingdom, particularly those involving high-profile international artists. As the Ghanaian community and music fans globally await the final report from the police, the focus remains on the recovery of those injured and the potential implementation of stricter safety protocols for future international showcases.

Trede Police Investigate Suspicious Death of Taxi Driver Kwabena Awuah at Kotwi-Nkoranza
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Trede Police Investigate Suspicious Death of Taxi Driver Kwabena Awuah at Kotwi-Nkoranza

The Trede Police Command in the Atwima-Kwanwoma District has launched a formal investigation into the suspicious death of a 35-year-old taxi driver whose body was discovered inside his vehicle on the morning of July 28, 2026. The deceased, identified as Kwabena Awuah—popularly known within the community as “Asawado”—was found at Kotwi-Nkoranza under circumstances that suggest he may have been the victim of a violent encounter. Initial police reports indicate that the victim may have been targeted by unknown assailants during his night shift. Contextual details surrounding Awuah’s final hours have emerged, suggesting a sequence of events that began on the evening of July 27. Family sources reveal that the driver had a disagreement with his wife before leaving his home to begin his work for the night. When he failed to return or make contact, a search was initiated, leading to the discovery of his lifeless body in the taxi the following morning. While the specific cause of death remains under investigation, the presence of the body inside the stationary vehicle has raised significant alarm among local residents and transport workers. Authorities have processed the scene and transported the body to a medical facility for a forensic examination to determine the precise cause of death. At this stage, investigators have not yet established a clear motive for the suspected attack, nor has it been confirmed if any personal belongings or vehicle components were stolen. The Trede police are currently working to identify potential witnesses and are appealing to the public for any information that could lead to the identification of those responsible for the incident. The tragic death of "Asawado" has sparked renewed concerns regarding the safety and security of commercial drivers operating during late-night hours in the Atwima-Kwanwoma area. Local community leaders have called for increased police patrols to deter criminal activity and protect vulnerable transport workers. As the investigation continues, the police have assured the bereaved family and the public that they are committed to uncovering the circumstances of the tragedy and ensuring that justice is served.

David Donkor Sentenced to 10 Years Imprisonment for Defiling 13-Year-Old Girl in Bekwai
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David Donkor Sentenced to 10 Years Imprisonment for Defiling 13-Year-Old Girl in Bekwai

David Donkor, a 38-year-old farmer, has been sentenced to ten years' imprisonment with hard labour by the Bekwai Circuit Court for the defilement of a 13-year-old girl. The judgment was delivered on July 31, 2026, by Presiding Judge Isaac Appiatu after the accused was found guilty under Section 101 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960. The incident, which occurred in the community of Afoako near Bekwai, has drawn significant attention to the protection of minors in the Ashanti Region. The case originated in December 2024, when the victim's mother reported the assault to the police. Following the incident, Donkor attempted to evade justice by fleeing the area, leading to an extended search by law enforcement. After more than a year of investigations, police successfully apprehended the suspect on January 8, 2026. This arrest set the stage for a legal battle that sought to hold the farmer accountable for his actions against the minor. During the court proceedings, the prosecution bolstered its case by presenting critical medical evidence that confirmed the assault. This testimony was instrumental in securing a conviction, as it provided the scientific basis necessary to satisfy the requirements of the Criminal Offences Act. Judge Appiatu's ruling of ten years with hard labour emphasizes the court's stance on the severity of sexual crimes and the importance of shielding children from such exploitation. The conclusion of this trial provides a sense of closure for the victim and her family while reinforcing the judicial system's commitment to tackling child abuse. As David Donkor begins his decade-long sentence, the case serves as a stern reminder of the legal consequences awaiting those who violate child protection laws. Legal advocates have praised the conviction as a vital step in ensuring that the rights of vulnerable citizens are upheld through the diligent application of Ghanaian law.