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.

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Tragic Truck Crash in Kumawu Claims Four Lives, Including Two Children

A tragic accident in Kumawu, Ashanti Region, on January 17, 2023, resulted in the deaths of four individuals, including two children, when a tipper truck loaded with sand lost control and crashed into a hair salon. The victims comprised the salon owner, her children, and a customer, all of whom died instantly at the scene. In addition to the fatalities, four others, including the truck driver, sustained injuries, with one person critically hurt and subsequently referred to Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital for specialized care. This incident has raised significant safety concerns within the community, marking the second accident involving trucks from the same construction company associated with the Kumawu road project. Previous incidents included a truck crashing into a mosque, which fortunately resulted in no casualties.

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Tragic Murder of Woman and Six Children Shocks Kano Community

The Kano State Police Command has launched an investigation into the tragic murder of a 35-year-old woman and her six children in the Dorayi Chiranchi Quarters. The horrific incident occurred on Saturday when assailants broke into the victims' home and attacked them with weapons. Police received a distress call at approximately 12:10 p.m. and responded promptly; however, the victims were pronounced dead upon arrival at the Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital. The local community is in mourning, with many residents calling for increased security measures and justice for the victims. The police have mobilized a team to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure that those responsible for this heinous crime are brought to justice. Assistant Commissioner Wada Jarma is leading the investigation, emphasizing the need to prioritize community safety and address the concerns raised by residents in the aftermath of this tragedy.

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Gunmen Kill Policeman and Abduct Chinese Expatriate in Oyo State

In a brazen attack on Thursday around 1 p.m., gunmen stormed the Aqua Triton Company in Ogunmakin Community, Oyo State, resulting in the death of a policeman and the abduction of a Chinese expatriate, Renjith Pillai, who was inspecting crops at the time. The assailants, numbering approximately ten, executed a commando-style operation, overpowering the officer who attempted to repel them. The Police Public Relations Officer confirmed the incident, stating that the officer died in the line of duty. In response, the Commissioner of Police has ordered a comprehensive manhunt and tactical operations to rescue Pillai and apprehend the kidnappers. Local police, led by Assistant Commissioner of Police Femi Haruna, have initiated a search operation in the area, focusing on bush-combing efforts to locate the abducted expatriate and bring the perpetrators to justice. The incident has raised concerns about security in the region, prompting calls for increased vigilance and protective measures for expatriates and local businesses alike.

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Serwaa Amihere Apologizes to PRESEC Amid Controversy Over Homosexuality Comments

Broadcast journalist Serwaa Amihere has publicly apologized to the Presbyterian Boys’ Senior High School (PRESEC) community following backlash over her comments that labeled the institution a "breeding ground for homosexuals." The remarks, which sparked significant controversy, were condemned by PRESEC's management, who characterized them as false and damaging to the school's reputation. They emphasized their commitment to Christian values and the importance of not stigmatizing their students. In her apology, Amihere acknowledged the hurt her comments caused and assured that similar statements would not be made in the future. The incident has generated mixed reactions from the public regarding the intent and impact of her remarks.

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Tragic Funeral Mix-Up: Family Discovers Body of Steward Buried by Mistake

A funeral intended to honor George Kwame Antwi, a 40-year-old steward of the Presbyterian Church, turned into a distressing ordeal when his family learned just hours before the service that his body had been mistakenly buried three months earlier. The shocking revelation came from the Assin Brofoyedur Mortuary, which informed the Antwi family that their loved one had been confused with a 75-year-old man by another family, leading to a wrongful burial. Despite the family's extensive preparations for the funeral, including travel arrangements for mourners, they were left grappling with the emotional trauma of knowing that George's remains lie in an unmarked grave, buried alongside a stranger. This administrative error has not only caused immense grief but has also raised serious concerns about the mortuary's practices. The Antwi family is now demanding accountability and answers regarding the handling of their loved one's remains, as the community expresses disbelief over the incident. The situation highlights the need for improved protocols in mortuary operations to prevent such heartbreaking mix-ups in the future.

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Multimedia Group Celebrates Annual Thanksgiving Service Amidst Community Challenges

The Multimedia Group Limited recently held its annual thanksgiving service, emphasizing gratitude and commitment to God as it prepares for another year of service and growth. The event, attended by management and staff, featured praise and worship led by the Multimedia Choir and performances by gospel musician Rama Antwi. CEO Kwasi Twum encouraged employees to recognize the benefits of their employment, especially in a country facing high unemployment rates, and to anchor their confidence in God rather than worldly measures of success. COO Ken Ansah urged the team to remain focused and diligent in their roles as they plan for the future. Apostle General Rev. Sam Korankye Ankrah delivered an encouraging message about God’s constant presence, motivating staff to move forward confidently despite challenges. The service reinforced the company’s core values of integrity, excellence, and public service, highlighting its broader impact beyond broadcasting. In a separate incident, the Bekwai Circuit Court sentenced 27-year-old Ernest Agyei to seven years in prison for an acid attack on Benjamin Asante, a former student, during a confrontation. Agyei was also ordered to pay GH¢6,000 in compensation. The attack, which occurred on December 22, 2024, left Asante hospitalized for three months. Despite Agyei's denial of the charges, he was found guilty after the court heard evidence of a prior conflict and the severe consequences of his actions.

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Lt. Col. Jacqueline Dela Galley Makes History as First Female Commander of Ghana Military Police

In a historic milestone for gender equality in the Ghana Armed Forces, Lieutenant Colonel Jacqueline Dela Galley has been appointed as the first female commander of the Ghana Military Police (GMP) on January 15, 2026. The transfer of command ceremony featured traditional military rituals, including the symbolic handover of the unit's Badger Dog mascot from the outgoing commander, Lt. Col. Percy Odartey Lamptey. During his tenure, Lamptey emphasized improvements in morale and infrastructure within the GMP. Brigadier General Albert Assiamah lauded Lt. Col. Galley's appointment as a significant achievement, highlighting the critical role of the GMP in maintaining discipline and morale as the military adapts to modern security challenges. This leadership change marks a progressive step towards gender mainstreaming in military leadership roles, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity within the Ghana Armed Forces.

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Arrests Made in Unauthorized Tree Felling at Aburi Botanical Gardens

The Akuapem South Municipal Assembly has confirmed the arrest of two individuals, including the curator of the Aburi Botanical Gardens, for illegally felling trees at the site. This action follows widespread public outrage after distressing images of the felling circulated on social media, raising significant concerns over the preservation of the gardens' biodiversity and cultural heritage. Activist Mr. Sam Mante has called for immediate government intervention to protect this vital ecological site. The Assembly has initiated an investigation in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service and has assured the public that those responsible will face legal consequences. Additionally, a technical team has been tasked with assessing the damage and developing a restoration plan to ensure the gardens are preserved for future generations. The Assembly encourages public cooperation in providing any credible information related to the incident.

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27-Year-Old Sentenced to Seven Years for Acid Attack on Former Student

The Bekwai Circuit Court has sentenced 27-year-old Ernest Agyei to 84 months in prison for pouring acid on 18-year-old Benjamin Asante, a recent senior high school graduate. The incident occurred on December 22, 2024, during a confrontation that arose while Agyei was cleaning tiles. Following a heated argument, Agyei threw acid at Asante, resulting in severe injuries that required a three-month hospitalization. In addition to the prison sentence, Agyei has been ordered to pay GH¢6,000 in compensation to the victim. Despite Agyei's claims that the act was accidental, the court found him guilty based on evidence of prior tensions between the two individuals. The presiding judge, Mr. Isaac Apeatu, noted Agyei's lack of remorse as a significant factor in determining the sentence, emphasizing the need for a deterrent against such violent acts. The prosecution had advocated for a severe penalty, highlighting the gravity of the attack and its impact on Asante's life.

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Ghana Navy Dismantles Major Fuel Smuggling Syndicate Along Volta Coast

On January 15, 2026, the Ghana Navy successfully dismantled a significant illegal fuel bunkering operation along the Keta-Denu-Aflao coastline. The operation, conducted by the GNS Aflao, involved the interception of seven modified dugout canoes, known locally as "Dendes," which are specifically engineered for high-volume smuggling. These vessels were found carrying approximately 378 empty barrels, each with a capacity of 250 liters, intended for illicit fuel trade. Commodore Solomon Asiedu-Larbi emphasized the sophisticated tactics employed by the criminal syndicate, which included the use of a mothership to discreetly transfer stolen fuel beyond territorial limits. Despite the Navy's efforts, the suspects managed to flee upon detection, leaving behind valuable equipment. In response to this growing threat, Rear Admiral Godwin Livinus Bessing has ordered an increase in maritime assets to enhance security and ensure a continuous naval presence in the region. The Navy aims to protect Ghana's coastal economy and promote maritime security, reinforcing its commitment to combating transnational crime and supporting local fishing communities.

A close-up photograph showing a pair of hands gripping dark metal prison bars. The background consists of a weathered grey wall, creating a somber and dramatic atmosphere representative of incarceration.
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The Hidden Health Crisis of Traditional Cookstoves in Ghana: A Call for Action

Traditional open cookstoves, prevalent in many Ghanaian homes, are emerging as a significant public health threat due to Household Air Pollution (HAP). Professor Reginald Quansah from the University of Ghana has highlighted that these inefficient cookstoves, which burn firewood and charcoal in poorly ventilated spaces, contribute to approximately 20% of global pollution and are responsible for around 32,000 deaths annually in Ghana alone. The toxic emissions from these stoves, including carbon monoxide and black carbon, pose severe health risks, particularly to women and children who spend extended periods in kitchens. The dangers of HAP are comparable to those associated with smoking, leading to serious respiratory diseases and other health complications. Despite the existence of cleaner cooking technologies, changing long-standing cooking habits remains a challenge due to a lack of immediate risk perception among users. Professor Quansah emphasizes the urgent need for increased awareness, education, and access to affordable alternatives to mitigate this overlooked health crisis. He advocates for improved ventilation and the adoption of safer cooking practices to protect vulnerable populations from the hidden dangers of traditional cooking methods. The situation calls for a concerted effort to address kitchen air pollution, which is often overshadowed by more immediate health threats.