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.

Two Men Sentenced to Prison for Violent Burglary of Manchester City Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma
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Two Men Sentenced to Prison for Violent Burglary of Manchester City Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma

A French court has handed down prison sentences to two men responsible for a violent home invasion and burglary targeting Manchester City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma and his partner, Alessia Elefante. The sentencing, finalized on October 6, 2023, addresses an incident at the couple's Paris residence that was marked by extreme physical aggression. The legal resolution comes after a traumatic period for the victims, during which the professional athlete and his partner were subjected to a life-threatening ordeal in their own home. The details of the burglary are particularly harrowing, highlighting the severity of the violence involved. During the attack, Donnarumma was reportedly severely beaten by the intruders. His girlfriend, Alessia Elefante, was also targeted; the assailants reportedly choked her with a cable as they sought to intimidate the couple and steal valuables. This level of brutality distinguishes the case from other high-profile robberies involving footballers, which often focus on property theft without such direct and sustained physical assault on the residents. The consequences of the attack extended far beyond physical injuries and stolen property, resulting in a profound personal tragedy. At the time of the burglary, Elefante was pregnant, and the immense trauma of the event led to a miscarriage shortly thereafter. The court’s decision to imprison the two men reflects the gravity of these outcomes, acknowledging the devastating impact on the family. The case highlights the ongoing security concerns for high-profile individuals and the severe psychological and physiological toll that violent crime can inflict on its victims.

Policeman involved in alleged ‘hit-and-run’ that killed Central University student Ivan Baidoo identified and interdicted
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Ghanaian Security Agencies Face Backlash Over Fatal Encounters Involving Student and Lecturer

Ghana’s security services are facing renewed scrutiny following two separate fatal incidents involving a police officer and military personnel. In the first case, General Corporal Robert Koranteng has been interdicted for his alleged role in a hit-and-run that claimed the life of a Central University student. Simultaneously, reports have emerged from the Upper East Region concerning the death of a college lecturer following an alleged assault by soldiers stationed in Bawku. These incidents have sparked concerns regarding the professional conduct of security officers and the safety of civilians during enforcement operations. The investigation into the death of Ivan Baidoo, a second-year law student, has seen a significant shift as the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) takes over the case. On August 27, 2026, Corporal Koranteng was reportedly pursuing a motorcycle on the Tema Motorway when the fatal crash occurred. Baidoo, who was a passenger on the motorcycle, sustained severe injuries and later succumbed to them, while the rider survived. The student’s family, dissatisfied with the initial pace of the inquiry, petitioned for a more thorough investigation and offered a reward for credible information. The resulting identification and interdiction of Koranteng represent a critical step toward accountability in a case that has gripped the academic community. In a separate but equally distressing development, Issaka Abdulai, a lecturer in the Science Department at Gbewaa College of Education in Pusiga, has reportedly died following an encounter with military personnel. The incident occurred in the Bawku area, where a heavy military presence remains due to ongoing security concerns. Details surrounding the alleged assault remain sparse, but the loss of an educator has sent shockwaves through the Gbewaa College community. This incident adds to the list of grievances concerning military-civilian interactions in volatile regions, where the line between maintaining order and using excessive force is frequently called into question. These tragic events underscore the urgent need for systemic reforms and transparency within Ghana’s security architecture. While the interdiction of Corporal Koranteng provides a semblance of progress for the Baidoo family, the circumstances in Bawku highlight the complexities of military deployments in civilian areas. As investigations proceed, the public and human rights advocates are calling for swift justice to ensure that those entrusted with protecting the populace are held to the highest standards of the law. The resolution of these cases will be a litmus test for the commitment of the security hierarchy to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of all Ghanaians.

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Blessing Maame Ekua Nunoo Calls for Spirit-Led Societal Transformation at PIWC Takoradi

Miss Blessing Maame Ekua Nunoo of the Church of Pentecost has called on Christians to actively harness the power of the Holy Spirit to transform their communities and professional spheres. Speaking at the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC) in Takoradi, Miss Nunoo emphasized that believers must step up to address the challenges posed by rising secularism and the moral crisis often driven by modern influences. She asserted that true societal change cannot be achieved through human effort alone but requires a demonstrative faith rooted in spiritual empowerment. The address, delivered as part of the Children’s Week Celebration, highlighted the biblical mandate for evangelism and active social engagement. Citing Mark 16:15-16, Miss Nunoo reminded the congregation that the call to spread the message of Jesus Christ is a divine directive rather than an optional choice. She argued that in an era increasingly defined by secular values, the church’s mission must remain steadfast, with believers serving as catalysts for positive change within their local environments. Central to her message was the assurance that the Holy Spirit provides the necessary strength and guidance for this mission. Miss Nunoo noted that Christians should not be discouraged by the scale of societal challenges, as their success does not depend on personal capability but on the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. By actively proclaiming the gospel and demonstrating its transformative power, she suggested that the church can effectively counter the negative trends of modernity and restore moral values across different sectors of society. Ultimately, this call to action serves as a reminder of the proactive role the religious community is expected to play in national development and social cohesion. By leveraging their spiritual gifts, Miss Nunoo believes Christians can move beyond the walls of the church to impact public life, ensuring that transformation is both sustainable and deeply rooted in the core tenets of their faith.

Court hears details of how GH¢1,500 payment dispute led to murder of  80-year-old Dr Jesse Amuah, and 64-year-old wife at Asylum Down in Accra
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Abraham Newton Awundok Remanded for Alleged Murder of Dr. Jesse Amuah and Wife Over GH¢1,500 Dispute

An Adabraka District Court has remanded 32-year-old security guard Abraham Newton Awundok into custody following the gruesome murder of his employers, Dr. Jesse Amuah, 80, and his wife, Elizabeth Esi Amuah, 64. The double homicide, which occurred at the couple's residence in Asylum Down, Accra, reportedly stemmed from a heated dispute over a GH¢1,500 payment. The suspect now faces two counts of murder after allegedly confessing to the crimes during police interrogations. Details presented in court revealed that the tragic incident took place on March 23, 2026. According to the prosecution, the disagreement over the outstanding payment escalated when Mrs. Amuah allegedly insulted Awundok. In a fit of rage, the security guard is said to have attacked the elderly couple using various weapons. To conceal the crime, Awundok allegedly deposited the bodies of the victims in a septic tank on the property before fleeing the country to Dubai. Awundok's attempt to evade justice was short-lived. Following investigative leads, he was apprehended in Dubai and subsequently deported back to Ghana in August 2026 to face trial. During his appearance in court, it was noted that the suspect had already admitted to the killings while in police custody. The discovery of the bodies in the septic tank had earlier shocked the Asylum Down community and raised concerns about the safety of elderly residents. The presiding magistrate has adjourned the case to September 21, 2026, as the prosecution prepares further evidence for the committal process. The case has highlighted the volatility of domestic labor disputes and the importance of international cooperation in criminal investigations. Awundok remains in prison custody pending the next court hearing, where more details regarding the forensic evidence are expected to be disclosed.

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French Customs Seize €225m Cocaine Shipment Disguised as Plastic Waste from Ghana

French customs authorities have intercepted a massive shipment of cocaine weighing approximately 3.9 metric tons at the northern port of Dunkirk. The narcotics, valued at an estimated €225 million ($261.45 million), were discovered concealed within a cargo container originating from Ghana. This seizure marks one of the most significant drug busts in the region this year, highlighting the sophisticated methods used by international narcotics syndicates to move illicit goods through maritime trade routes. The illicit substance was found meticulously hidden inside a container declared as carrying plastic waste. Investigators revealed that the shipment was intended for delivery in Antwerp, Belgium, which serves as a major European gateway for international commerce. By using common recyclable materials like plastic waste as cover, trafficking networks frequently attempt to bypass standard customs inspections at high-volume international ports. Following the discovery, the French prosecutor's office has launched a formal investigation into the criminal network responsible for the shipment. The probe is currently focused on charges of organized narcotics importation and criminal association. Authorities have emphasized the gravity of the offense, noting that individuals successfully prosecuted for these crimes could face severe legal penalties, including up to 10 years in prison. This operation adds to a record year for French law enforcement in their crackdown on the drug trade. Throughout 2025, French customs officials have confiscated a total of 108.81 tonnes of various narcotics across the country, with an aggregate street value estimated at €2.197 billion. The scale of these seizures underscores the intensifying efforts by French authorities to disrupt global supply chains and dismantle the organized syndicates facilitating the movement of illegal drugs from West Africa into Europe.

Search Intensifies for 130 Missing After Virgo Transport 8 Ferry Sinks in Indonesia’s Java Sea
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Search Intensifies for 130 Missing After Virgo Transport 8 Ferry Sinks in Indonesia’s Java Sea

A massive search and rescue operation is currently underway in Indonesia’s Java Sea following the sinking of the ferry Virgo Transport 8 during severe weather conditions. Of the more than 240 passengers on board, approximately 130 people remain missing, while at least 107 survivors have been rescued and six bodies have been recovered. The vessel was traveling from Surabaya to Banjarmasin when it lost contact with authorities after encountering dangerously rough seas, eventually capsizing approximately 93 miles from its destination. The disaster was precipitated by extreme weather, with reports indicating that the ferry was battered by waves reaching heights of up to 10 feet (3 meters). The sudden onset of the storm and the resulting loss of communication left the crew unable to navigate the turbulent waters. Search efforts, coordinated from Trisakti Port, involve a joint task force comprising multiple agencies, several ships, and a helicopter. Despite the deployment of extensive resources, the search remains challenging as personnel contend with the same volatile maritime conditions that led to the sinking. The human toll of the incident has left families in a state of agonizing uncertainty. As some celebrate the miraculous rescue of their loved ones, many others are gathered at ports and emergency centers, waiting for any news regarding the fate of the missing. The emotional distress highlights the significant reliance on ferry transport in the Indonesian archipelago, where maritime travel is a critical mode of transport connecting the vast island nation. In the wake of the tragedy, Indonesia’s National Transport Safety Committee has initiated a formal investigation into the sinking to determine whether safety protocols were followed. This latest disaster has reignited intense scrutiny regarding Indonesia’s maritime safety standards, which have seen a troubling frequency of incidents in recent years. The outcome of the investigation is expected to influence future regulations for a transportation sector that remains vital yet hazardous for millions of commuters who depend on these vessels daily.

7 dead, 21 injured in Hwidiem-Acherensua highway crash
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Tragic Ahafo Highway Crash Claims Seven Lives Amid Regional Safety and Security Incidents

A tragic road accident on the Hwidiem-Acherensua Highway in the Ahafo Region has claimed seven lives and left twenty-one others injured, marking one of the most severe traffic incidents in recent days. According to reports from Graphic Online, the collision involved a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter bus and a Kia Picanto. Preliminary investigations suggest the crash was triggered by a sudden tyre burst on the bus, which caused the driver to lose control and veer into the path of the oncoming Picanto. Emergency services worked to transport the injured to nearby medical facilities, while local authorities have renewed calls for rigorous vehicle maintenance to prevent similar tragedies. In a separate incident highlighting transportation risks within Ghana, a pickup truck plunged into the Volta Lake while being transported via ferry at Afram Plains in the Eastern Region on September 12, 2026. Footage shared on social media showed a crowd of concerned residents gathered at the lake's bank as retrieval efforts were launched to recover the vehicle from the water. While no immediate fatalities were reported in the ferry mishap, the incident has raised fresh questions regarding safety protocols and vehicle securing measures during water-based transport in the region. The West African sub-region also witnessed significant security and social incidents in Nigeria. In the Sokoto metropolis, tension flared following the stabbing of a prominent Islamic cleric, Malam Musa Lukwa. The attack occurred immediately after Juma’at prayers at a mosque in Mabera, where a young attendee allegedly stabbed the cleric twice in the neck. The assailant was subsequently overpowered and killed by other worshippers at the scene. Meanwhile, in a widely reported financial mishap, a Nigerian woman named Sandra Opara has made a public appeal for the return of ₦1,640,200 (approximately GH¢14,152). Opara mistakenly transferred the funds, intended for business registrations with Value Circle Africa, into a Zenith Bank account belonging to Pastor Jerry Eze’s church, clarifying through tears that the sum was "not an offering." These varied incidents underscore a week of significant challenges ranging from road and maritime safety to individual security and financial errors. As authorities in the Ahafo Region continue to manage the aftermath of the fatal highway crash, the events in Sokoto and the ferry accident in Afram Plains serve as stark reminders of the unpredictable nature of public safety. Moving forward, the focus remains on improving emergency response times and public awareness regarding both physical security and the accuracy of digital financial transactions.

Foreign Ministry appeals for information on relatives of Ghanaian Stephen Kofi Boamah found dead in Berlin
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Foreign Ministry Seeks Kin of Ghanaian Found Dead in Berlin as Domestic and International Communities Mourn Key Figures

The Ghanaian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has issued an urgent appeal for information regarding the family of 37-year-old Stephen Kofi Boamah, a Ghanaian national who was recently found dead in Berlin, Germany. Known within his local community as "Gully," Boamah’s passing has prompted the Ghana Mission in Berlin to seek public assistance in identifying his relatives to facilitate the necessary arrangements for his remains. This appeal for a citizen abroad comes at a time when several high-profile deaths and legal disputes surrounding mortality have dominated national and international headlines. On the domestic front, the legal proceedings surrounding the suspicious death of prominent herbal doctor Felix Antwi have taken a contentious turn. His widow, Mrs. Charlotte Siaw, was recently granted bail in the sum of GH"100,000 without surety following her arrest in connection with a fire that claimed her husband's life. Before his passing, Mr. Antwi had reportedly accused his wife and two houseboys of attempting to poison him. Despite Mrs. Siaw escaping the blaze unharmed, investigators discovered evidence of physical assault on the doctor prior to the fire. The bail decision has met with strong opposition from Mr. Antwi’s family, who are demanding a more rigorous investigation and the arrest of other potential accomplices. In a separate social development, former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, accompanied by his wife Rebecca Akufo-Addo, recently paid his respects at the final funeral rites of the late Alice Serwaa Manu on September 12, 2026. The former leader joined a gathering of mourners to honor the memory of the deceased. Meanwhile, the international community is mourning the loss of Princess Astrid of Norway, who passed away at the age of 94. The Princess, the last surviving child of King Olav V, died just two days after attending the funeral of her brother, King Harald V. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr St"re has announced a state-funded burial in recognition of her decades of service to vulnerable populations. These varied events highlight a period of profound transition and legal scrutiny both within Ghana and across the diaspora. While the Ministry of Foreign Affairs works to provide closure for the family of Stephen Kofi Boamah in Germany, the Ghanaian justice system faces continued pressure to resolve the complexities of the Antwi case. Collectively, these developments underscore the enduring role of the state and community in managing the affairs of the deceased, whether through seeking justice, identifying kin, or honoring a lifetime of service.

Charles Lwanga Puozing (middle), Upper West Regional Minister,with the honoured officers
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GNA Board Drives Modernisation Strategy as Police Officers Earn Promotions for Combatting Armed Robbery

The Governing Board of the Ghana News Agency (GNA), led by Chairman Dr. Kwame Akuffo Anoff-Ntow, has established a new strategic direction focused on modernisation, resource mobilisation, and financial sustainability. During a recent high-level meeting, the Board prioritised the enhancement of editorial and multimedia capabilities to ensure the agency remains competitive in the evolving media landscape. A significant component of this transformation includes the ongoing renovation of the GNA Head Office, a project funded by the African Development Bank that will equip the agency with state-of-the-art infrastructure and multimedia tools to improve service delivery and maintain its public-service mandate. In a separate but equally significant development for national security, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has promoted four officers for their bravery in dismantling a violent robbery syndicate in the Upper West Region. General Sergeant Kwashe Divine Mort, Detective Sergeant Salifu Ishmeal Allketisiwin, General Corporal Ernest Ameyaw Akunfi, and General Corporal John Bekaar Vitus were recognised for their dedication in identifying and arresting members of a gang that had been terrorising the Wa West District and Wa Municipality. The gang, known for using machetes in violent assaults, was linked to the theft of approximately GH¢25,344, leaving local communities in a state of constant fear before the police intervention. Upper West Regional Minister Charles Lwanga Puozing presented Awards of Honour to the officers, emphasizing that effective crime-fighting requires deep collaboration between security agencies and the public. This sentiment aligns with the GNA Board’s broader goals of fostering innovation and strategic partnerships to address contemporary challenges. While the police continue to track two suspects who remain at large, the GNA is moving forward with plans to increase internal revenue through premium news products and expanded governmental support. Together, these initiatives represent a concerted effort across various state sectors to enhance institutional integrity, public safety, and professional excellence in Ghana.

Kingsford Quarshie and Phillip Aryeetey Sentenced in Ghana and UK for Robbery and Organized Crime
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Kingsford Quarshie and Phillip Aryeetey Sentenced in Ghana and UK for Robbery and Organized Crime

In a series of significant judicial developments, courts in both Ghana and the United Kingdom have handed down prison sentences to individuals involved in criminal activities ranging from localized theft to international drug trafficking. In Tarkwa, the Circuit Court has sentenced 21-year-old miner Kingsford Quarshie, popularly known as 'Cash Money,' to eight years of imprisonment with hard labor. Quarshie, an ex-convict with a prior record for robbery, was found guilty of unlawful entry, unlawful damage, and stealing. His accomplice, 20-year-old Joshua Hammond, a student at Takoradi Technical University, was also sentenced to 12 months for abetment following their roles in a supermarket raid. The prosecution's case against the duo was bolstered by surveillance technology, which captured the group ransacking a supermarket owned by Evans Antwi in Tarkwa on March 22, 2026. During the incident, the group stole various items, including a laptop and several provisions. Following a meticulous analysis of CCTV footage, police were able to identify the culprits and recover some of the stolen goods. Both defendants pleaded guilty to the charges brought against them, with the court taking Quarshie's previous criminal history into account when determining the severity of his eight-year sentence. In a parallel development in the United Kingdom, 55-year-old Phillip Aryeetey was sentenced to three years in prison after a major police operation targeting organized crime. Aryeetey was apprehended on October 24, 2025, while driving on the M57 motorway. A search of his vehicle by UK police uncovered nearly £300,000 in cash hidden under a seat, alongside a quantity of cocaine and a Taser. The sentencing reflects a firm stance by international authorities against the distribution of narcotics and the illicit financial networks that sustain criminal organizations. These two cases highlight a broader trend of judicial rigor and the increasing importance of technology in securing convictions. From the use of CCTV in Tarkwa to the targeted vehicle stops on UK motorways, law enforcement agencies are demonstrating a heightened capacity to track and prosecute offenders. These rulings provide a measure of justice for victims like supermarket owner Evans Antwi while serving as a deterrent to others involved in both petty crime and more complex, organized criminal enterprises.

Police rescue Bismark Amoh allegedly abducted at Assin Fosu
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Central North Police Rescue Bismark Amoh After 48-Hour Abduction Ordeal in Assin Fosu

The Central North Regional Police Command has successfully rescued 30-year-old Bismark Amoh, who was abducted in Assin Fosu, Central Region. Mr. Amoh was recovered following an intensive search and investigative operation after spending more than 48 hours in the hands of his captors. The incident, which began on September 6, 2026, triggered an immediate response from law enforcement as they worked to track the victim's location and ensure his safe return to his family. During his period in captivity, the abductors reportedly used psychological tactics to pressure Mr. Amoh’s family, sending audio and video recordings as proof of his condition and to escalate their demands. The kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of GH¢45,000 for his release, a sum they later increased to GH¢50,000. In a desperate attempt to secure his safety, the victim's family managed to raise and transfer GH¢19,500 to the captors. However, the payment did not lead to his immediate release, as the kidnappers continued to hold him while demanding the remaining balance. Following the police intervention and his subsequent rescue, Mr. Amoh was immediately taken to a medical facility where he is currently receiving clinical attention and undergoing a physical assessment. While the victim is now out of danger, the Central North Regional Police Command has stated that investigations are ongoing to uncover the full circumstances of the kidnapping. Authorities are actively pursuing leads to identify and apprehend the individuals responsible for the crime, reaffirming their commitment to maintaining security within the Assin Fosu enclave.

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Ministry of Foreign Affairs Confirms 41 Visa-Free Destinations for Ghanaian Ordinary Passport Holders

Ghanaian citizens holding ordinary passports can now access dozens of global destinations without the need for prior visa arrangements, according to the latest update from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Fred Duhoe, the Media Relations Officer for the Ministry, recently confirmed that a total of 41 countries are currently open to Ghanaians for visa-free travel. This announcement highlights the mobility afforded to Ghanaian citizens and underscores the government's ongoing efforts to facilitate easier international movement for its people. The breakdown of these destinations reveals a significant presence both within the West African sub-region and further abroad. According to the Ministry's data, the list includes 14 member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), where long-standing protocols on the free movement of persons have historically enabled seamless travel. In addition to these regional neighbors, Ghanaian ordinary passport holders are also permitted entry into 28 non-ECOWAS countries without the requirement of obtaining a visa in advance, providing a diverse range of options for business, tourism, and educational pursuits. While the absence of a pre-travel visa requirement significantly reduces the administrative burden and costs for travelers, officials remind the public that entry remains subject to individual country regulations. While specific requirements such as the duration of stay, the necessity of a valid return ticket, or proof of sufficient funds may vary by destination, the general waiver of advance visa applications marks a substantial benefit for the Ghanaian traveling public. This connectivity is a direct result of bilateral agreements and diplomatic negotiations aimed at enhancing Ghana's global standing. As international travel regulations are subject to change, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises all travelers to ensure their passports have a minimum of six months' validity before departure and to verify specific entry protocols for their intended destinations. The confirmed list of 41 countries serves as a testament to the strength of Ghana's diplomatic relations and provides a clear roadmap for citizens looking to explore international opportunities with greater ease and reduced bureaucracy.