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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SSNIT Honors 16 Stakeholders for Commitment to Social Security Scheme Growth at 2025 Awards

The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) has formally recognized 16 outstanding stakeholders for their pivotal roles in ensuring the sustainability and growth of Ghana’s Social Security Scheme. The 2025 SSNIT Stakeholder Awards, hosted at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra, brought together a diverse group of contributors, ranging from corporate employers to individual pensioners, all united by their commitment to the national pension framework. This recognition highlights the essential partnership between the Trust and those it serves, emphasizing that the strength of the social security net relies heavily on consistent and transparent participation. The awards were structured to reflect various levels of dedication and impact within the scheme. Key accolades presented during the evening included the Youngest Ambassador award, aimed at encouraging early participation in social security, as well as the Loyal Contributor and Distinguished Service awards. A particularly poignant moment of the ceremony was the presentation of the Lifetime Dedication awards, which honored individuals and partner organizations whose long-term commitment has served as a cornerstone for the scheme's stability. SSNIT officials noted that these awardees represent the gold standard of compliance and advocacy, serving as models for the wider public. In addition to the celebratory presentations, SSNIT leadership took the opportunity to outline the Trust’s future trajectory, focusing on digital transformation and improved service efficiency. Officials reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing the overall member experience through innovative technology-driven initiatives intended to simplify contributions and benefit claims. As the Trust looks toward the remainder of the year and beyond, the 2025 awards reinforce the message that stakeholder engagement remains the primary driver for achieving a robust and inclusive social security system for all Ghanaians.

Ghana News Agency Raises Alarm Over Deliberate Concealment of Motorcycle Registration Plates
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Ghana News Agency Raises Alarm Over Deliberate Concealment of Motorcycle Registration Plates

Road safety and law enforcement in Ghana are facing a growing challenge as an increasing number of motorcyclists engage in the deliberate concealment of registration plates. This practice, which involves tilting, covering, or otherwise obscuring number plates, makes it nearly impossible for witnesses or authorities to identify vehicles involved in traffic infractions or criminal acts. The Ghana News Agency (GNA) has highlighted this trend as a significant threat to public order and safety, particularly within densely populated urban centers where such violations are most prevalent. The methods used to hide these identifiers vary, with many riders positioning plates at extreme angles or using physical obstructions to block visibility from standard viewpoints. Such tactics are often employed to evade accountability for reckless driving, speeding, or more serious criminal activities. Law enforcement experts note that without a clear and visible registration number, the ability to track and apprehend offenders is severely hampered, which risks fostering a culture of impunity among motorists on the nation's roads. This trend is particularly concerning as Ghana transitions toward technology-supported traffic enforcement, which relies heavily on automated cameras and digital identification systems. The success of these modern policing tools depends entirely on the clear visibility of registration numbers to function effectively. If plates remain obscured, the significant investments made into traffic monitoring technology will be undermined, stalling broader efforts to modernize the country’s road management and safety systems. In response to the growing prevalence of this practice, there is an urgent call for the Ghana Police Service and relevant transport authorities to strictly enforce existing regulations regarding the proper display of motorcycle plates. Strengthening roadside enforcement is seen as a crucial step toward restoring discipline and ensuring that all road users remain accountable. Observers suggest that a combination of increased street patrols and stiffer penalties for plate tampering will be necessary to curb this dangerous habit and enhance overall national security.

Norway Bids Final Farewell to King Harald V in Solemn State Funeral
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Norway Bids Final Farewell to King Harald V in Solemn State Funeral

Norway came to a standstill on Wednesday as King Harald V was laid to rest following a 13-day period of national mourning that saw the country reflect on his decades-long reign. The final ceremonies commenced with a somber foot procession from the royal palace to Oslo Cathedral, a route lined by tens of thousands of mourners who braved the cold to pay their final respects. The atmosphere was one of profound gratitude for a monarch widely regarded as a unifying force who championed a modern, inclusive Norway during his time on the throne. The state funeral attracted high-profile dignitaries from across the globe, highlighting the international respect the late King commanded. Among the attendees were Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and members of various European and global royal families. The service at the cathedral was a blend of traditional Lutheran liturgy and personal tributes, concluding with a dramatic flyover by F-35 fighter jets—a final military salute to the late Commander-in-Chief. Following the service, King Harald was interred in a royal sarcophagus at the historic Akershus Fortress, the traditional final resting place for Norwegian monarchs. Despite the inevitable questions about the future of the monarchy in a modern era, King Harald V leaves behind an institution that remains remarkably popular. Recent polling indicates that 72% of Norwegians continue to support the monarchy, a testament to the King’s ability to remain relevant and beloved through periods of significant social change. As the national mourning period officially concludes with the ringing of church bells and the raising of flags to full-mast across the country, Norway begins a new chapter, carrying forward Harald's legacy of national unity and institutional stability.

NACOC arrests three, shuts down Amsterdam Pub at Laboma over suspected drug activities
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Ghana Security Agencies Intensify Anti-Narcotics Crackdown with Dawhenya Seizure and Accra Pub Closure

Law enforcement agencies in Ghana have ramped up their fight against illicit drug trafficking, resulting in the arrest of five individuals and the seizure of a significant quantity of suspected narcotics across two major operations. In the most recent incident, the Tema Regional Police intercepted a massive haul of suspected Indian hemp at Dawhenya, while the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) shut down a popular entertainment venue in Accra following intelligence-led raids. These coordinated efforts signal a robust stance by the state against the distribution and sale of prohibited substances. The Dawhenya operation occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, September 8, 2026. Officers from the Prampram Division conducted a snap check at approximately 12:45 a.m., during which they intercepted an Accra-bound Ford Transit vehicle. A thorough search of the vehicle revealed 692 parcels of suspected Indian hemp, carefully wrapped in yellow polythene bags. The driver, identified as Godwin Asigeh, and his assistant, Freeman Amedoku, were immediately taken into custody. Both suspects are currently being held at the Devtraco Police Station to assist with ongoing investigations, and the vehicle has been impounded as evidence. This police action follows a strategic raid by NACOC on September 4, targeting the Amsterdam Pub at Laboma in Accra. Acting on intelligence reports regarding suspected drug-related activities, NACOC officials arrested three individuals and ordered the immediate closure of the establishment. While the three suspects are currently aiding the commission with its inquiries, authorities have confirmed that the primary suspect behind the pub’s alleged illicit operations remains at large. Extra intelligence officers have since been deployed to track down and apprehend the fugitive. These operations underscore a heightened vigilance by Ghanaian security forces to dismantle narcotics networks and deter the use of commercial spaces for illegal trades. NACOC has issued a stern warning to entertainment venue operators, emphasizing that businesses found facilitating drug-related activities will face severe legal consequences, including permanent closure. As investigations into both cases continue, the police and NACOC have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring public safety by aggressively targeting the supply chains of prohibited substances across the country.

The arrested suspects
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Ghana Police Dismantle Major Robbery Syndicates as Bekwai Court Jails Trio for 22 Years

The Ghana Police Service has intensified its crackdown on violent crime, dismantling several organized robbery syndicates and securing significant prison sentences for offenders. Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno confirmed that a series of coordinated operations conducted between April and September 2026 led to the apprehension of 20 suspects across multiple regions. These operations yielded a substantial cache of illegal weaponry, including 11 AK-47 rifles and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. The IGP noted that these arrests have provided critical leads in high-profile cases, including the murder of a missing couple and several major bank robberies that had previously unsettled the public. Among the most recent successes is the disruption of a gang operating along the N6 highway on the Nsawam stretch of the Accra-Kumasi road. Police arrested five individuals, including a 14-year-old who allegedly served as a lookout for the group. In a notable development, Isaka Nafse, the mother of the suspected gang leader known as "Obotan," was also taken into custody for her alleged role in concealing a firearm used during their operations. A subsequent search of their premises led to the recovery of multiple guns and an unregistered motorbike, highlighting the involvement of family networks in shielding criminal activities. Parallel to these field operations, the judiciary has delivered a stern message to criminals through the Bekwai Circuit Court. Three men—Eric Afful, 21; Abdul Ganiu, 24; and David Mensah, 26—were sentenced to long terms of hard labour for a violent robbery at Adansi Akwaaku. The court handed a 20-year sentence to Afful for abetment, while Ganiu and Mensah each received 22 years for the robbery itself. The trio had ambushed a gold buyer on September 3, 2026, stealing significant amounts of cash and gold. While some items were recovered, the police are still searching for two pounds of missing gold. These combined efforts by the police and the judiciary underscore a renewed commitment to restoring public safety and order. Inspector-General Yohuno emphasized that the dismantling of these networks is part of a broader strategy to proactively neutralize violent crime before it escalates. As investigations continue into the remaining members of these syndicates and the location of stolen assets, the authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperative, signaling that the current sweep is only one phase of an ongoing national security initiative.

A section of the road
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Minister Agbodza Signals Completion of Suame Interchange Phase 2 as Prisons Service Reports Rising Congestion

The Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, has announced that Phase 2 of the Suame Interchange project in the Ashanti Region is nearing completion and is expected to be opened to traffic by late October. During a recent inspection, the Minister expressed satisfaction with the progress of the GH"3 billion project, which is currently 87% complete. The initiative is designed to significantly alleviate the chronic traffic congestion that has long plagued motorists in Kumasi, with officials aiming to have the new routes fully operational before the upcoming Christmas season. Technical details provided by Resident Engineer Dennis Kusi Boateng indicate that the second phase includes the construction of three major overpasses at Anoamangye, Maakro, and Abusuakruwa. Additionally, the widening of the Offinso Road (N10) into a dual carriageway is approximately 77% finished. While the work has progressed steadily, the project team has encountered challenges such as the vandalism of construction materials and the necessity of further structure demolitions to clear the right-of-way. Once Phase 2 is commissioned, construction focus will shift to Phase 1, which has an estimated completion date of 2028. Parallel to these infrastructure developments, the Ghana Prisons Service is addressing a growing crisis within the nation's correctional system. Director-General Mrs. Patience Baffoe-Bonnie reported that Ghana's prisons are currently 23% over-congested, housing approximately 13,000 inmates—a figure that significantly exceeds the authorized capacity of the facilities. To manage this pressure, the Service is coordinating inmate transfers and working closely with justice sector institutions through the Justice for All Programme to review remand cases and facilitate the release of eligible prisoners. In response to these challenges, the Prisons Service has introduced the "Think Prisons 360 Degrees" initiative, which seeks to open correctional facilities to the public and strengthen inmate reintegration efforts. Mrs. Baffoe-Bonnie highlighted the expansion of prison farms and vocational training programs as essential components of the current reform agenda. These programs are intended to provide inmates with productive skills and reduce recidivism, ensuring that the prison system balances security with effective rehabilitation as the government continues to invest in both national infrastructure and social justice reform.

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Asokwa Circuit Court Fines Trader GH¢12,000 for Sale of Counterfeit Amuzu Bitters

The Asokwa Circuit Court has delivered a significant ruling against trade malpractice by fining Jeanice Mensah, a trader, GH¢12,000 for the sale of counterfeit Amuzu Bitters. This legal action follows her conviction on charges related to the forgery of trademarks and the distribution of unauthorized alcoholic beverages. The case underscores the rigorous stance the Ghanaian judiciary is taking against intellectual property theft and the potential health risks posed by unregulated herbal products. During the court proceedings, it was established that Mensah had engaged in the illicit distribution of the bitters by mimicking the branding and trademarks of the legitimate producers. Forging trademarks is a criminal offense under Ghanaian law, intended to safeguard both the reputations of established brands and the health of the public, who may unknowingly consume unregulated products. The court's decision to levy a substantial fine reflects the gravity of economic crimes that undermine the integrity of local markets. The presiding judge emphasized the deterrent nature of the sentence, noting that economic crimes of this nature have far-reaching consequences for the national economy. Beyond the GH¢12,000 fine, the court stipulated a custodial alternative to ensure compliance; should Mensah fail to pay the sum, she will be required to serve two months in prison with hard labor. This ultimatum highlights the judicial system's commitment to enforcing trade laws and protecting both domestic industries and unsuspecting consumers from the dangers of counterfeit goods. This conviction is expected to serve as a cautionary tale for traders and wholesalers who may be tempted to engage in the sale of counterfeit products. Industry analysts suggest that while the fine is a step in the right direction, more collaborative efforts between law enforcement, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and brand owners are necessary to completely sanitize the market. As the government continues to promote the "Made in Ghana" agenda, ensuring a fair and transparent trading environment remains a top priority for sustainable economic growth and public health safety.

Government Repatriates Musician Barosky From UK as Ashanti GJA Launches Media Excellence Awards
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Government Repatriates Musician Barosky From UK as Ashanti GJA Launches Media Excellence Awards

Veteran highlife musician Barosky has been successfully repatriated to Ghana from the United Kingdom following a coordinated effort by the Ghanaian government. The move follows widespread public concern after distressing footage of the musician surfaced in Manchester. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa confirmed that the government funded the repatriation and is now overseeing Barosky’s reintegration process. This diplomatic intervention, facilitated by Ghana’s High Commissioner to the UK, Sabah Zita Benson, highlights the state's commitment to the welfare of its citizens abroad, particularly those who have contributed significantly to the nation's cultural heritage. The government also extended gratitude to broadcaster Nana Romeo and the general public for raising awareness about the musician's situation. Closer to home, the media landscape in the Ashanti Region is set for a celebration of professional standards with the launch of the 2025 Ashanti Media Excellence Awards in Kumasi. Organised by the regional chapter of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), the awards aim to recognize exceptional journalism across various sectors including sports, health, and education. GJA Ashanti Chairman Kofi Adu Domfeh emphasized that this year’s theme, "Celebrating Excellence, Championing Credibility: Journalism in the Age of AI," is a timely call for journalists to uphold accountability and transparency. Amidst the rising tide of misinformation and the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, the GJA is prioritizing the integrity of the profession, with the awards ceremony scheduled for the first week of October. On the international front, King Charles III has provided further clarity on the status of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan, following their return to the UK from North America. The monarch reiterated that the couple will remain non-working royals and private citizens, maintaining the strict boundaries established in the 2020 Sandringham Agreement. A formal letter from the Lord Chamberlain clarified that their roles could not evolve into a hybrid status. While the couple focuses on independent ventures, Buckingham Palace ensured that any matters requiring public funds or operational security will be handled through the appropriate official channels. These developments, spanning from domestic cultural preservation to international royal protocols, reflect a period of significant transitions in the diplomatic and professional spheres.

Ghana Police Investigate Murder Plot in Madina and Unexplained Deaths in Volta and Central Regions
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Ghana Police Investigate Murder Plot in Madina and Unexplained Deaths in Volta and Central Regions

The Madina Divisional Police Command has successfully intercepted a murder plot targeting a local susu collector, Esther Danquah, resulting in the arrest of two prominent taxi rank executives. Eric Tettey, the former chairman of the Botwe Old Town Taxi Rank, and the current chairman, Abubakar Altine, were apprehended on September 3, 2026, following a two-week intelligence operation. Investigators revealed that the conspiracy was allegedly motivated by a financial dispute, as one of the suspects owed Danquah a significant sum of money and sought to avoid repayment. Both men remain in custody as the police finalize investigations for their eventual arraignment. In the Volta Region, the Ghana Police Service has launched a separate investigation following the discovery of a woman's body in Have Etoe, located within the Afadzato South District. The deceased, identified as Enyonam, was found by residents in her backyard on a Sunday afternoon. Madam Peace Ayisem, the local Assembly Member, reported that she alerted community chiefs and law enforcement immediately after receiving the news. While the body has been conveyed for an autopsy to establish the exact cause of death, the circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear, and the family has been formally notified to assist in the process. Tragedy also struck the Central Region, where residents of Assin Amoabeng near Nyankumasi Ahenkro discovered the body of 52-year-old Baba Ibrahim. Ibrahim, a well-known spiritualist, farmer, and prominent advocate against illegal mining, was found dead in his home in what is suspected to be a suicide. He was discovered hanging shortly after his daughter had left to escort a younger sibling to school. As a father of seven, his sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the community, particularly given his vocal stance on environmental protection and his active role as a local spiritual leader. These three separate incidents highlight a demanding period for the Ghana Police Service across the Greater Accra, Volta, and Central regions. From proactive interventions against violent crime in urban centers to sensitive investigations into unexplained deaths in rural communities, law enforcement remains focused on establishing facts and ensuring justice for the victims. The police have urged the public to remain calm and provide any information that could assist in these ongoing cases as the affected families and local communities seek closure.

Tarkwa Court Sentences Galamsey Operator to 15 Years as Judiciary Cracks Down on Defilement and Attacks on Officers
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Tarkwa Court Sentences Galamsey Operator to 15 Years as Judiciary Cracks Down on Defilement and Attacks on Officers

In a series of significant judicial developments across Ghana, circuit courts have delivered sentences and heard cases involving severe physical assaults and child exploitation. Notably, the Tarkwa Circuit Court sentenced 20-year-old Kelvin Oppong, a galamsey operator, to 15 years in prison for the defilement of a 14-year-old student. Oppong reportedly deceived the victim by posing as a pastor and luring her to his home under the pretext of buying sausages. The court heard that the victim was given a concoction that caused her to lose consciousness, after which she was sexually assaulted. The crime was uncovered when the victim’s stepmother reported the incident following a medical examination that confirmed the assault. Meanwhile, in the Ashanti Region, the Nkawie Circuit Court sentenced 24-year-old tricycle (Pragyia) rider Abdul Aziz to three months in prison for biting a Community Police Assistant (CPA). The incident, which occurred on September 3, 2026, began when police officers stopped Aziz for operating without a driver’s license or proper documentation. While being escorted to the police station for processing, Aziz resisted and bit the CPA on the chest. Aziz pleaded guilty to charges of negligently causing harm, and his sentencing reflects a growing concern regarding friction between commercial transport operators and law enforcement officers performing their duties. Parallel to these cases, 32-year-old Okada rider Zordzi Kwame appeared before the Odumase Krobo Circuit Court on September 7, 2026, charged with a violent machete attack. Kwame is alleged to have been part of a mob of approximately 30 individuals who attacked a retired police officer and two others during a land dispute in Belekorpe, near Kpong. The victims sustained severe injuries from cutlasses during the August 26 confrontation. Presided over by His Honour Kwesi Appiatse Abaidoo, the court proceedings continue as authorities investigate the broader group involved in the land-related violence. These cases underscore a heightened judicial focus on maintaining public order and protecting vulnerable populations from predatory behavior. The heavy sentence handed to Oppong serves as a stern warning against the exploitation of children, while the jail time for Aziz highlights the zero-tolerance policy toward the physical obstruction of law enforcement. As these legal battles move forward, the Ghana Police Service continues to urge the public to resolve civil disputes, particularly over land ownership, through official legal channels rather than through vigilante violence.

National Security and Public Safety Concerns Rise Following Bunkpurugu Unrest and Berekum Flooding
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National Security and Public Safety Concerns Rise Following Bunkpurugu Unrest and Berekum Flooding

Ghana’s security and disaster management agencies are currently on high alert following a series of incidents ranging from renewed communal violence in the North East Region to devastating floods in the Bono Region. In Bunkpurugu, residents are grappling with escalating gunshot reports that have prompted emergency security meetings, while in the Berekum Municipality, a severe rainstorm has left several families displaced and property destroyed. These developments highlight ongoing challenges in regional stability and infrastructure resilience across the country. In the North East Region, the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has convened an emergency meeting to address a resurgence of violence in Bunkpurugu. Following incidents on Monday that left two people injured, renewed gunshots were reported on Tuesday afternoon, heightening fears among the local population. To restore order, authorities have deployed a combined force of police and military personnel to strategic locations. Officials are currently deliberating the implementation of a full curfew to curb the volatility, urging residents to remain calm and cooperate with security forces during this period of heightened tension. Simultaneously, the Berekum Municipality in the Bono Region is dealing with the aftermath of a catastrophic downpour that caused extensive damage in the Kyiribaa, Brenyekwa, and Berekum Zongo areas. Although no loss of life was recorded, floodwaters breached numerous homes, leading to significant displacement. Assembly Member Florence Adusah and local residents pointed to clogged drainage systems and unregulated building practices as primary catalysts for the disaster. Affected communities are now calling on the Municipal Assembly and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) for urgent humanitarian assistance and long-term drainage improvements. The risks of structural failure were further underscored by reports of a building collapse in Abuja's Wuse Zone 4, which occurred shortly after authorities had sealed the premises for safety violations. Aminst these crises, proactive efforts are being made to enhance public safety through education and community engagement. In the Bono East Region, the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) recently held a landmark fire safety drive in Techiman. Led by ACFO I Rev. Naomi Ofori-Adubea Sarpong, the regional command engaged 55 leaders from various artisan groups to equip them with the knowledge necessary to prevent workplace hazards. This initiative, described by participants as the first of its kind, aims to create a culture of safety among craftsmen and apprentices, providing a potential blueprint for reducing domestic and industrial accidents as the country navigates seasonal and security-related challenges.

Mother of suspected robber arrested for hiding gun, four suspects including 14-year-old picked up
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Ghana Security Agencies Intensify Crackdown on Highway Robberies and Narcotics Trade

Security operations across Ghana have seen a significant surge, marked by high-profile arrests on the Accra-Kumasi N6 highway and a major narcotics raid in Accra. During a press briefing at the National Police Headquarters on September 7, 2026, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno showcased several handcuffed robbery suspects, who appeared visibly stunned as they were shown video footage of their alleged crimes. These developments highlight a more aggressive, intelligence-led approach by the Ghana Police Service and specialized agencies like the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) to dismantle criminal syndicates.\n\nIn one of the most notable cases, police arrested a suspected robbery gang leader, identified as Obotan, alongside his mother, Isaka Nafse, for their roles in a violent robbery on the N6 highway. Nafse is accused of concealing weapons used by the gang. The operation also led to the apprehension of four other individuals, including a 14-year-old minor who allegedly served as a lookout. A subsequent search of their premises resulted in the recovery of multiple firearms and an unregistered motorbike, providing critical evidence for the ongoing investigation into the highway attacks.\n\nSimultaneously, the Narcotics Control Commission has stepped up its enforcement against illicit drug activities. On September 4, 2026, NACOC officials conducted an overnight raid at the Amsterdam Pub in the Laboma area of Accra. The operation resulted in the closure of the establishment and the arrest of three individuals suspected of facilitating narcotics trade. While the primary suspect remains at large, NACOC has issued a stern warning to entertainment venue owners, cautioning that any premises found to be hosting drug-related activities will face immediate closure and prosecution.\n\nBeyond enforcement, the government is also focusing on morale and professionalism within the security ranks. In the Upper West Region, Regional Minister Charles Lwanga Puozuing recently honored four police officers for their exceptional bravery in dismantling an armed robbery syndicate. The officers, who were promoted and received Awards of Honour, were instrumental in intelligence-led operations that disrupted violent attacks in early August. These collective efforts—ranging from specialized raids to public recognition of merit—underscore a multi-faceted national strategy aimed at restoring public confidence and ensuring safety across Ghana's transport corridors and urban centers.