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.

Three dead, 11 injured in Ajumako Kokoben highway crash
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Three Dead and 11 Injured in Fatal Road Accident at Ajumako Kokoben Highway

A tragic road accident at Ajumako Kokoben in the Central Region has resulted in the deaths of three individuals and left eleven others with varying degrees of injury. The incident, which occurred on Monday, July 20, involved a collision between a Toyota Isuzu and a Toyota Voxy. This fatal crash highlights the persistent dangers on major Ghanaian highways and the critical importance of emergency response efficiency in the immediate aftermath of such disasters. Emergency responders from the Ghana National Fire Service arrived at the scene to find several passengers trapped within the mangled wreckage of the vehicles. Firefighters successfully rescued four individuals who were pinned inside, while seven other victims had already been pulled to safety by courageous bystanders prior to the arrival of the official rescue team. All eleven injured survivors were immediately handed over to medical personnel and transported to nearby health facilities for urgent treatment. While official investigations are still underway to determine the exact cause of the crash, preliminary reports suggest that the driver of the Toyota Voxy was attempting a high-speed overtaking manoeuvre at the time of the collision. The situation was reportedly exacerbated by dusty conditions on the stretch of road, which may have significantly reduced visibility for both drivers involved. Following the rescue operations, fire service personnel worked to secure the accident scene and cleared the debris to restore the free flow of traffic on the busy highway. The Ghana National Fire Service and local authorities have used this incident to reiterate calls for motorists to exercise extreme caution, especially when driving in conditions that impair visibility, such as dust or heavy rain. This incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks associated with high-speed maneuvers and the ongoing need for improved road safety enforcement. Further updates regarding the condition of the injured and the final police report are expected as the investigation concludes.

Firefighters battle domestic fire in Weija, commercial blaze at China Market, Kasoa
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Ghana National Fire Service Battles Separate Blazes in Weija and Kasoa; One Hospitalized Following China Market Fire

On July 23, 2025, the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) was called to address two distinct fire outbreaks, highlighting the varied challenges faced by emergency responders in both residential and commercial sectors. The first incident involved a domestic blaze at Weija Sampa Valley in the early morning, followed by a significant commercial fire at the China Market in Kasoa later that night. While the quick actions of the firefighters prevented the total loss of several structures, the evening blaze resulted in one injury and damage to several storage units within the market area. The early morning response at Weija Sampa Valley began at 5:38 am, when fire crews from the Weija Fire Station arrived to find a residential property under threat. The firefighters moved swiftly to contain the flames, successfully limiting the destruction to a single bedroom. Thanks to their rapid intervention, no injuries were reported, and the fire was prevented from spreading to the rest of the house or neighbouring buildings. This domestic incident underscored the importance of prompt emergency reporting and the efficiency of local fire units in preventing catastrophic residential losses. The situation escalated later that evening at 8:53 pm when a report came in regarding a fire at the China Market in Kasoa. Upon arrival at 9:16 pm, firefighters encountered intense flames engulfing several metal containers. Recognizing the scale of the blaze, reinforcements were dispatched from the Anyaa and Swedru fire stations. This collaborative operation was successful in saving the market's main building, although the fire did result in one person being hospitalized for injuries sustained during the incident. The coordination between multiple fire stations proved essential in managing the high-risk environment of the commercial market. Investigations into the specific causes of both the Weija and Kasoa fires are currently ongoing as officials work to determine the origins of the outbreaks. The Ghana National Fire Service has used these events to remind citizens of the critical need for fire safety awareness, especially in both residential and high-density commercial zones. As the authorities continue their assessment, they urge the public to prioritize fire prevention and maintain clear access routes for emergency vehicles to ensure rapid response times in future emergencies.

ECG Announces Planned Maintenance for July 23; Western, Ashanti, and Tema Regions Affected
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ECG Announces Planned Maintenance for July 23; Western, Ashanti, and Tema Regions Affected

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has officially announced a series of emergency and planned maintenance works scheduled for July 23, 2023, which will impact residential and commercial customers across the Western, Ashanti, and Tema regions. This critical infrastructure exercise is part of the utility provider's ongoing commitment to enhancing the reliability of the national power grid and preventing future system failures. By conducting these essential repairs and upgrades, the ECG aims to bolster the robustness of the distribution network, ensuring long-term service stability for its growing customer base despite the temporary disruptions. In the Ashanti Region, the maintenance window is the most extensive, starting at 8:30 am and expected to conclude by 5:00 pm, indicating a significant overhaul or repair session within the region's power network. Similarly, the Western Region will experience disruptions between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm. During these specified hours, multiple communities within these zones will be without electricity, requiring businesses and households to plan their activities accordingly to mitigate the impact on productivity. The ECG has prioritized clear communication regarding these timelines to allow the public sufficient time for preparation. For customers within the Tema Region, the scheduled maintenance is slated to begin at 10:00 am and run until 4:00 pm. While these outages are temporary, the ECG has emphasized that such proactive interventions are vital to preventing more frequent and unplanned interruptions in the future. The company has formally apologized for any inconvenience these scheduled works may cause and strongly recommends that affected customers make alternative power arrangements where necessary. This strategy reflects a broader effort to maintain the integrity of Ghana's energy infrastructure under the current administration's focus on utility reliability.

Funeral Arrangements Announced for Yaw Kwarteng and Sampson Hayford Jnr in July and August 2026
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Funeral Arrangements Announced for Yaw Kwarteng and Sampson Hayford Jnr in July and August 2026

The families of the late Mr. Yaw Kwarteng and Mr. Sampson Hayford Jnr have formally announced the final funeral arrangements for their beloved relatives, scheduled to take place in late July and early August 2026. These solemn ceremonies will bring together mourners from across the country to pay their last respects to the deceased in services held in both the Ashanti and Central regions. The announcements provide details on the laying in state, burial services, and thanksgiving ceremonies as the families prepare to celebrate the lives of those they have lost. For Mr. Yaw Kwarteng, who passed away at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital following a short illness, funeral rites are set to begin on Saturday, July 25, 2026. The program includes a laying in state and a burial service, with the final interment scheduled to take place at Hiawu-Besease. A thanksgiving service will conclude the rites on Sunday, July 26, 2026. The family has requested that attendees observe the traditional dress code, wearing black on Saturday and black and white for the Sunday service. The mourning process is being led by a committee of chief mourners and family members from across the community. In Cape Coast, the family of 43-year-old Sampson Hayford Jnr has also released a detailed schedule for his final journey. According to the announcement, there will be no wake-keeping. Instead, the body will be laid in state at the CNC Grounds in Cape Coast on Thursday, July 30, 2026, starting at 6:00 AM. This will be followed by a burial service at 8:00 AM at the same venue and interment at the Asokyiano Cemetery. Final funeral rites will be held later that afternoon at the CNC Grounds, where the family, including his widow, Mrs. Rebecca Asamoah Hayford, will receive sympathizers. The final activities for Mr. Hayford will culminate in a thanksgiving service on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at the Seventh-Day Adventist Church on Atterbury Road in Cape Coast. These upcoming ceremonies for both Mr. Kwarteng and Mr. Hayford Jnr underscore the deep cultural importance of the final passage in Ghanaian society, serving as a time for community solidarity and the honoring of legacies. Friends, colleagues, and well-wishers are encouraged to join the respective families during these periods of transition and remembrance.

Ghana Intensifies Fraud Crackdown: Court Orders Extradition of Abu Trica Accomplice as EOCO Declares Emmanuel Ababio Wanted
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Ghana Intensifies Fraud Crackdown: Court Orders Extradition of Abu Trica Accomplice as EOCO Declares Emmanuel Ababio Wanted

Ghana's law enforcement and judicial systems have ramped up their efforts to combat financial crimes with two significant legal actions taken on July 24, 2026. The Gbese District Court has approved the extradition of a high-profile suspect linked to a multi-million dollar romance fraud, while the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has issued a public alert for an individual accused of defrauding by false pretences. These developments signal a coordinated effort by the administration of President John Mahama to crack down on organised crime syndicates and enhance international legal cooperation. In a major judicial ruling, the Gbese District Court sanctioned the extradition of Daniel Yusif to the United States. Yusif is identified as an alleged accomplice of the suspected romance fraud kingpin Abu Trica. The extradition request follows an investigation into a sophisticated romance fraud scheme that reportedly siphoned approximately US$8 million from victims. While the court has cleared the way for his transfer to American authorities, the ruling on Friday provided Yusif with a 15-day window to contest the order, offering a final opportunity for legal challenge before the extradition process is finalized. Simultaneously, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has officially declared Emmanuel Ababio a wanted man. Ababio is sought in connection with an ongoing investigation into alleged defrauding by false pretences. The agency utilised its official social media platforms to disseminate the wanted notice, urging the public to provide any information that could lead to his arrest. This move is part of EOCO's broader mandate to track down individuals involved in economic crimes that threaten the stability of the nation's financial landscape. These actions highlight the ongoing commitment of Ghanaian authorities to ensure that the country is not a safe haven for financial criminals. The collaboration between the judiciary and specialised crime units like EOCO reflects the priorities of the current government in maintaining public trust and international credibility. As the 15-day period for Daniel Yusif’s appeal progresses, the public is encouraged to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement to bring suspects like Ababio to book, reinforcing the rule of law in Ghana’s evolving legal environment.

Wa High Court Sentences Imam Ilyasu Kunateh to 10 Years Hard Labour for Defiling 7-Year-Old Boy
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Wa High Court Sentences Imam Ilyasu Kunateh to 10 Years Hard Labour for Defiling 7-Year-Old Boy

The Wa High Court has sentenced a 42-year-old Imam, Ilyasu Kunateh, to 10 years in prison with hard labour following his conviction for the defilement of a 7-year-old boy. The ruling, which has sparked significant discussion regarding the protection of minors, underscores the Ghanaian judiciary's commitment to holding individuals in positions of trust accountable for heinous crimes. The presiding judge delivered the verdict after a thorough examination of the evidence, concluding that Kunateh had violated the sanctity of his community role and the safety of a vulnerable child. According to the facts presented in court, the incident occurred on January 17, 2026. Kunateh reportedly lured the young victim by offering him a ride on his motorcycle. Instead of taking the boy to his intended destination, the Imam transported him to a secluded area where the assault took place. The details emerged shortly after the victim reported the ordeal, leading to an investigation that eventually brought the religious leader before the Wa High Court. Throughout the trial, the prosecution emphasized the severe breach of trust involved, given Kunateh's standing as a spiritual leader. Despite the Imam’s persistent denial of the allegations during the legal proceedings, the prosecution presented compelling evidence that established his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This included critical medical reports confirming the assault and testimonial evidence that corroborated the child’s detailed account of the events. The court noted that the consistency of the victim's testimony, coupled with the forensic findings, left no room for ambiguity regarding Kunateh's culpability. The defense’s attempts to refute the claims were dismissed as the evidence overwhelmingly supported the prosecution's case. This sentencing serves as a stern warning to potential offenders and a significant development for child rights advocates in Ghana. Legal experts have highlighted the case as a reminder of the continuous need for vigilance in safeguarding children within religious and community settings. As Ilyasu Kunateh begins his decade-long sentence, the focus remains on the rehabilitation of the survivor and the strengthening of community mechanisms to prevent such abuses. The judgment reinforces the principle that no individual, regardless of their social or religious status, is above the law when it comes to the protection of the nation's youth.

Ghana Meteorological Agency Warns of Heavy Thunderstorms in North and Fog-Induced Low Visibility in South
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Ghana Meteorological Agency Warns of Heavy Thunderstorms in North and Fog-Induced Low Visibility in South

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has issued a comprehensive weather forecast warning of starkly different atmospheric conditions across the northern and southern sectors of the country. According to the agency, residents in northern Ghana should prepare for moderate to heavy thunderstorms, while those in the southern regions are expected to navigate through thick mist and fog. These conditions represent a significant shift in daily weather patterns, with the agency emphasizing the need for public vigilance in the face of potentially hazardous visibility and localized flooding. In the northern sector, the forecast indicates a high probability of severe weather, particularly in key administrative and commercial centers. Towns such as Tamale, Yendi, and Wa are listed as high-risk areas. Specifically, the probability of thunderstorms in Wa and Jirapa has been placed at 80%, suggesting that these locations are almost certain to experience heavy downpours. These storms may be accompanied by strong winds, which could impact temporary structures and travel schedules. Conversely, the southern and middle belts of Ghana are set to experience atmospheric cooling that will manifest as mist and fog. Coastal and inland cities, including Accra, Koforidua, and Cape Coast, are projected to have a 60% chance of significantly reduced visibility during the early hours and late evening. While some light rain may occur in these regions, the primary concern remains the safety of motorists and pedestrians due to the hazy conditions that typically accompany such high levels of humidity and low-level cloud cover. The agency also extended its warning to the maritime sector, advising fishers and other sea-goers to exercise extreme caution. Rough sea conditions are anticipated along the coastline, which could pose risks to small craft. Across the nation, temperatures are expected to fluctuate between a minimum of 22 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 32 degrees Celsius. GMet urges all citizens to stay informed through official channels and to prioritize safety, particularly when driving through areas with impaired visibility or during active storm cycles.

The suspects
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Manhyia District Police Seize 100 Narcotics Parcels at Asawase Market; Two Suspects Arrested

The Manhyia District Police Command in Kumasi has successfully intercepted 100 parcels of suspected narcotics during a targeted operation at the Asawase Market. In the raid conducted on July 21, 2026, law enforcement officials apprehended two suspects identified as 37-year-old Osman Bassein and 38-year-old Mohammed Abdul-Razak. The operation marks a significant blow to the local distribution network of illicit substances in the Ashanti Region, reflecting the police service's intensified efforts to combat organized crime. According to official police reports, the seizure was the result of a meticulously planned, intelligence-led operation designed to disrupt criminal activities within the bustling market area. The suspected narcotics, which consisted of large quantities of dried leaves, were found concealed inside fertilizer sacks. This tactic of using agricultural packaging is a common method employed by traffickers to bypass routine security checks and blend in with the high volume of legitimate trade occurring at the market. Following the arrest, the 100 parcels were secured and have been moved for forensic testing to confirm the exact chemical nature of the substance. Meanwhile, Bassein and Abdul-Razak remain in police custody, where they are assisting investigators in uncovering the broader syndicate involved in the shipment. The Manhyia District Police emphasized that this successful intervention was made possible through proactive policing and the effective use of surveillance and field intelligence. The police administration has used this development to remind the public of the critical role of community involvement in maintaining national security. Residents and traders at the Asawase Market and across the Kumasi metropolis are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or unusual movements of goods to the nearest police station. Under the leadership of the current administration, the Ghana Police Service continues to prioritize the eradication of the drug trade to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens.

7 Arrested as Police recover 17 stolen motorbikes in Upper West
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Upper West Regional Police Dismantle Motorbike Theft Cartel; Seven Arrested and 17 Bikes Recovered

The Upper West Regional Police Command has successfully dismantled a major motorbike theft syndicate operating within the Wa Municipality, marking a significant victory in the region's fight against property crime. Following a series of intelligence-led operations, security forces arrested seven suspects and recovered 17 stolen motorbikes. This crackdown comes as part of a broader commitment by the police to ensure public safety and protect the livelihoods of residents under the current administration of President John Mahama. The investigation was launched following a report filed on July 11, 2026, regarding the theft of a motorbike from the premises of the Ghana National Fire Service. Using the details provided by the victim, police operatives tracked and identified several key members of the criminal network, including a suspect identified as Nasiru Muftawu. Subsequent raids at various locations across the municipality led to the retrieval of additional motorbikes that had been reported missing by other residents over several weeks. The seven suspects have been officially remanded into police custody following their initial processing. They are scheduled to make their first court appearance on August 11, 2026, where they will face charges related to theft and the possession of stolen property. The Regional Police Command has expressed confidence in the judicial process and reaffirmed its dedication to pursuing all leads to eliminate criminal cartels from the region. In light of these recoveries, the police are urging members of the public who have recently lost their motorbikes to report to the Regional Police Headquarters. Claimants must provide valid ownership documents to verify their identity and facilitate the return of their property. The authorities have assured the public that intelligence-led patrols will continue to be intensified to prevent a resurgence of such criminal activities in the Wa Municipality.

12-Year-Old Girl Killed and Over 300 Displaced After Devastating Rainstorm Hits Neindogu, Yendi
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12-Year-Old Girl Killed and Over 300 Displaced After Devastating Rainstorm Hits Neindogu, Yendi

A severe rainstorm has struck the Neindogu suburb of Yendi in the Northern Region, resulting in the tragic death of a 12-year-old girl and leaving several other residents injured. The disaster, which occurred early Thursday morning, caused widespread destruction across the community, completely destroying or severely damaging approximately 40 houses. The intensity of the storm has left more than 300 individuals displaced, forcing many to seek refuge with relatives while others are reportedly sleeping in the open. Witnesses described the storm as being accompanied by exceptionally fierce winds that ripped off roofs and led to the collapse of several mud-brick structures. Beyond residential buildings, the storm's path of destruction included uprooted trees and downed electricity poles, which further complicated the situation for the local population. While the deceased girl has been buried in accordance with local customs, those who sustained injuries are currently receiving medical attention at a nearby health facility. Muhammed Muntaru, the local assembly member for the area, confirmed the scale of the devastation, noting that women and children are among the most vulnerable of the displaced residents. According to Muntaru, the loss of property has been absolute for some families, who now face the dual challenge of homelessness and the ongoing threat of further inclement weather. He emphasized that the community is in urgent need of humanitarian support to prevent a burgeoning housing crisis. Officials from the Yendi Municipal Directorate of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) have visited Neindogu to conduct a formal assessment of the damage and coordinate relief efforts. However, residents are urgently appealing to the government, non-governmental organizations, and benevolent individuals for essential supplies, including food, clothing, and building materials to begin the reconstruction process. As the rainy season continues, NADMO has issued a call for heightened vigilance among residents in low-lying and disaster-prone areas to prevent further loss of life.

Ghana Bankers Association CEO John Awuah Reveals He Was Scammed Following Public Education Campaign on Cyber Fraud
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Ghana Bankers Association CEO John Awuah Reveals He Was Scammed Following Public Education Campaign on Cyber Fraud

John Awuah, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Bankers Association, has shared a cautionary personal account of falling victim to a scam, despite his high-level expertise in the financial sector. Speaking at a recent forum, Mr. Awuah revealed that he was targeted and successfully defrauded shortly after appearing on a live radio program dedicated to educating the public about the dangers of cyber fraud. This incident serves as a significant warning that even those at the forefront of the banking industry, who are well-versed in security protocols and defensive measures, are not entirely immune to the sophisticated tactics employed by modern cybercriminals. The timing of the scam—occurring almost immediately after a public education session—highlights the audacity and situational awareness of fraudsters operating in Ghana's digital space. Mr. Awuah noted that the criminals often monitor public figures and institutional messaging to refine their social engineering techniques. By choosing to disclose his personal experience, the CEO intended to reduce the stigma and embarrassment often felt by victims of financial crime, emphasizing that the psychological manipulation used by these actors is designed to exploit human nature rather than just technical vulnerabilities. The incident has prompted a broader discussion regarding the security of Ghana’s financial ecosystem and the resilience of current fraud detection systems. As the head of the association representing the country's banks, Mr. Awuah’s revelation underscores the critical need for continuous vigilance and the regular updating of cybersecurity frameworks. He suggested that the banking sector must prioritize not only technical defenses but also more intensive, relatable public awareness campaigns that reflect the real-world complexity of these threats. Looking forward, the Ghana Bankers Association is expected to advocate for stronger collaboration between financial institutions, telecommunications companies, and law enforcement agencies to track and prosecute these offenders more effectively. The CEO’s disclosure at the forum is seen as a call to action for both the industry and the public to remain hyper-alert. The association remains committed to protecting the integrity of the banking system and ensuring that digital transformation does not come at the cost of consumer security in an increasingly connected economy.

Three remanded over alleged lynching at Kumasi's Sabon Zongo
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Three Suspects Remanded by Asokore Mampong Court Over Alleged Lynching of Yusuf Zakari in Kumasi

Three men have been remanded into police custody by the Asokore Mampong District Court following the brutal lynching of a man in Sabon Zongo, a suburb of Kumasi. The suspects, identified as Moses Adoko, Abubakari Adams, and Nurudeen Suleman, are allegedly responsible for the death of Yusuf Zakari, who was attacked during a violent incident at a local cattle kraal. This case has once again brought the issue of mob justice to the forefront of national discourse, highlighting the ongoing challenges of ensuring security in urban centers and the judiciary's efforts to hold perpetrators of such violence accountable. The fatal assault occurred on July 19, 2026, when Zakari was reportedly confronted and severely beaten by a group of individuals. Following the attack, the victim was rushed to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in critical condition. Despite medical efforts to stabilize him, he succumbed to his severe injuries shortly after his admission. The Ashanti Regional Police Command intervened quickly after the report, leading to the arrest of the three primary suspects who were subsequently processed for court to face charges related to the killing. During the court proceedings, the magistrate ordered that the three accused be remanded to provide the police with sufficient time to conclude their comprehensive investigations. The case has been adjourned until August 7, 2026, as prosecutors work to finalize evidence and potentially identify other accomplices involved in the mob action. Law enforcement officials have issued a stern warning against the practice of vigilante justice, emphasizing that such actions undermine the rule of law and the formal justice system under the administration of President John Mahama. The Ashanti Regional Police are urging members of the public who may have witnessed the event or possess relevant footage or information to come forward and assist in the prosecution. They reiterated that mob justice is a serious criminal offense and encouraged citizens to hand over suspected criminals to the police rather than taking the law into their own hands. As the community of Sabon Zongo mourns the loss of Yusuf Zakari, the outcome of this trial will be closely watched as a test of the state's resolve to curb communal violence and ensure that justice is served through proper legal channels.