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.

48 Engineer Regiment commences work to reclaim Lafa water retention basin at Mallam in Accra
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Accra Intensifies Flood Mitigation Works and Relief Distribution Following June 2026 Deluge

Following the devastating floods of June 2026, the Greater Accra Region has seen a surge in both humanitarian aid and critical infrastructure projects aimed at preventing future disasters. From the reclamation of vital water basins to the construction of massive underground drains, state agencies and international NGOs are working to address long-standing drainage failures that have plagued the capital for decades. These efforts coincide with large-scale relief distributions to thousands of displaced families, marking a coordinated push by the government and its partners to restore normalcy and build resilience in flood-prone communities. A major milestone in this infrastructure drive is the commencement of a 5.2-meter underground storm drain at the Hansonic Junction along the Dr. Busia Highway. The project, overseen by the Ablekuma North Municipal Assembly, aims to provide a permanent solution to a drainage problem that has persisted for 15 years. Municipal Chief Executive Adamu Musah Kalamu noted that the new system will connect to existing infrastructure near the Accra Academy School area. Maintenance Engineer Kwaku Tsegah highlighted that the previous system, dating back to 1985, had become obsolete due to heavy siltation and the illegal dumping of refuse, necessitating this modern intervention which is expected to be completed within four months. Simultaneously, the 48 Engineer Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces has been deployed to reclaim the Lafa water retention basin, a critical drainage point for Mallam, Weija, and Dansoman. The basin’s capacity had been severely compromised by illegal encroachments and years of compacted waste. Operating under the Post-Flood Mitigation Task Force, the military unit is utilizing heavy machinery for dredging and the demolition of illegal structures within the basin’s buffer zones. Officials emphasize that restoring the Lafa basin is essential for protecting surrounding residential areas from the torrential rains that frequently cause the Blue Lagoon and other neighborhoods to overflow. On the humanitarian front, the international NGO DirectAid has launched a GH"2 million relief program to support approximately 1,500 families affected by the mid-year floods. In Alajo, one of the hardest-hit areas, Country Director Sami Henedak Ahmed led the distribution of essential supplies including rice, cooking oil, mattresses, and towels. This intervention, funded by donations from Kuwait, specifically targets households whose livelihoods were disrupted by the June 2026 floods. Beneficiaries expressed profound relief as they continue the difficult process of recovery, with further distributions scheduled for surrounding communities in the coming weeks. While these projects represent significant progress, local authorities are urging residents to support the maintenance of new and reclaimed infrastructure. The persistent issue of refuse dumping in drains remains a primary cause of flooding, as seen in the failure of the older Hansonic system. As the government continues its national strategy to restore Accra’s waterways, officials stress that the success of these multi-million cedi investments depends on community cooperation and a collective shift toward better waste management practices to ensure the capital remains resilient against the changing climate.

The suspects
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Five Arrested in Murder of Gold Dealer Seth Kobina at Agona Nkwanta; Gang Leader Dies in Custody

The Western Regional Police Command has apprehended five suspects in connection with the brutal robbery and murder of a 40-year-old gold dealer in Agona Nkwanta. The victim, identified as Seth Kobina, was fatally shot during an attack on his business premises at Agona Fie on August 20, 2026. The swift police response led to the detention of the individuals allegedly responsible for the crime, which has sent shockwaves through the local business community in the Western Region. According to police reports and corroborating CCTV footage that has emerged since the incident, the assailants targeted Kobina at his shop, where he was shot in the chest during the heist. The arrested suspects have been identified as Christopher Seyiri, Bashiru Ibrahim, Thomas Odoom, and Isaac Quayeson. The alleged mastermind of the operation, Emmanuel Amponsah, was also taken into custody; however, authorities have confirmed that Amponsah subsequently died while in police detention. The police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the leader's death. The emergence of video evidence has played a critical role in the investigation, providing a clear account of how the robbers executed the attack and fled the scene. The Ghana Police Service indicated that the surviving suspects are currently cooperating with investigators to identify and locate additional accomplices who may be linked to the gang. This incident highlights ongoing security concerns for gold dealers in the Western Region, who are frequently targeted by armed criminal groups due to the high-value nature of their trade. The police have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring justice for Seth Kobina and his family, emphasizing that no effort will be spared in rounding up the rest of the criminal network. As the case moves toward prosecution, residents and business owners in Agona Nkwanta have called for increased patrols and enhanced security measures to protect the local economy. The Western Regional Command is expected to provide further updates as the remaining four suspects are processed through the judicial system.

some of the suspects
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Ashanti Regional Police Arrest Seven Suspects, Seize 860 Tramadol Tablets in Narcotics Crackdown

The Ghana Police Service has apprehended seven individuals during a series of intelligence-led operations targeting the distribution and sale of illegal narcotics across the Ashanti Region. The coordinated raids, which took place on August 20, 2026, were executed by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Special Operations Team (SOT) in response to growing concerns regarding drug-related activities in the area. The operations spanned three primary locations—Ejisu, Abrepo Junction, and Atimatim—resulting in the significant recovery of controlled substances and unregistered pharmaceuticals. Among the suspects taken into custody are 43-year-old Nana Kwadwo Adu and 48-year-old Nana Kwame Fella, both arrested in Ejisu. In a subsequent raid at Abrepo Junction, police detained four individuals: Stephanie Anokye, 23; Roland Anokye, 20; Gideon Owusu, 30; and Grace Fosua, 27. The final arrest occurred at Atimatim, where 27-year-old Kofi Opoku was apprehended. These arrests mark a concerted effort by the Ashanti Regional Police Command to dismantle local distribution networks that have been linked to various social challenges in the region. The operations yielded substantial evidence, most notably the seizure of 860 Tramadol tablets and capsules, a highly regulated painkiller frequently abused for its opioid-like effects. Beyond the Tramadol, officers recovered several pill pouches suspected to contain dried leaves believed to be narcotics, along with various other unregistered drugs. Law enforcement also confiscated an unspecified amount of currency suspected to be proceeds from illegal drug transactions. All seized materials have been processed as evidence as the police intensify their efforts to trace the supply chain behind these illicit substances. Currently, all seven suspects remain in police custody and are assisting with ongoing investigations aimed at identifying the primary sources of the narcotics and uncovering any wider criminal connections. The Ashanti Regional Police Command has emphasized that these operations are part of a broader strategy to ensure public safety and curb the drug menace. In a statement, authorities urged members of the community to remain vigilant and provide credible information that could lead to further arrests, reinforcing the importance of public-police cooperation in maintaining law and order.

Ghanaian Philanthropist Alhaji Seidu Agongo Donates GHS 55,000 to Support Bereaved Families and Seek Prayers for President Mahama
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Ghanaian Philanthropist Alhaji Seidu Agongo Donates GHS 55,000 to Support Bereaved Families and Seek Prayers for President Mahama

Alhaji Seidu Agongo, a prominent Ghanaian businessman and philanthropist, has reinforced his commitment to social cohesion and national leadership through a series of significant charitable contributions. Known for his advocacy of love and human coexistence, Agongo recently distributed a total of GHS 55,000 aimed at supporting bereaved families and seeking spiritual fortification for the nation’s leadership. These actions underscore a philanthropic philosophy that views financial wealth as a tool for bridging societal gaps and fostering hope across the country. A major portion of the recent outreach included a GHS 50,000 donation to the family of the late Sanni Jaja, who served the nation as a former Deputy Ambassador to Saudi Arabia. By providing this substantial financial support during their period of mourning, Agongo emphasized the duty of the community to stand in solidarity with those experiencing deep personal loss. The gesture was intended to go beyond simple financial assistance, serving as a reminder of the importance of communal values and empathy in maintaining a strong social fabric. Extending his philanthropy into the realm of national stability, Agongo also contributed GHS 5,000 to the National Chief Imam. This specific donation was designated to facilitate special prayers for President John Mahama, reflecting Agongo’s conviction that spiritual guidance is a necessary pillar for effective governance and national development. By engaging the office of the National Chief Imam, the businessman highlighted the vital role that faith and moral leadership play in supporting the executive branch as it navigates the country’s future. These acts are part of a broader pattern of humanitarian efforts by Agongo, who maintains that philanthropy is a moral responsibility rather than an elective choice. He continues to advocate for a society built on unity and collaboration, suggesting that such interventions are vital for national progress. As Ghana moves forward, Agongo’s emphasis on collective support and spiritual intercession offers a template for how private individuals can contribute to the greater public good and foster a more compassionate nation.

Interpol Coordinated Operation Jackal IV Leads to 58 Arrests in Global Crackdown on West African Cyber-Crime Networks
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Interpol Coordinated Operation Jackal IV Leads to 58 Arrests in Global Crackdown on West African Cyber-Crime Networks

In a massive global enforcement action, Interpol has announced the results of "Operation Jackal IV," a coordinated effort across 22 countries and six continents to dismantle West African organized crime syndicates. Conducted between November 2025 and June 2026, the operation led to the arrest of 58 individuals and the identification of 263 suspects. The crackdown primarily targeted networks known for large-scale cyber-enabled financial fraud, particularly the notorious Nigerian Black Axe group, which has expanded its reach far beyond the African continent. The investigation shed light on the diverse and increasingly predatory tactics used by these criminal organizations. While romance and investment scams remain their primary revenue streams, authorities uncovered a disturbing rise in sextortion cases, some involving victims as young as 14. These syndicates utilize sophisticated methods to launder illicit gains, including the use of cryptocurrencies and business email compromise (BEC) fraud. Interpol’s analysis suggests that these networks are not only involved in digital crimes but are also linked to serious violent activities, making their disruption a high priority for international security. The financial impact of the operation has been significant, particularly in South Africa, where police seized $2.67 million and successfully blocked 257 bank accounts linked to fraudulent activities. Arrests and seizures were also reported in Argentina, Italy, and Romania, demonstrating the vast geographic footprint of these groups. By targeting the financial infrastructure of these networks, law enforcement agencies aim to cripple their ability to fund further operations and recruit new members into their illicit schemes. Operation Jackal IV underscores the critical necessity of international cooperation in the digital age, as cyber-crime increasingly transcends national borders. Interpol officials emphasized that the success of this mission was made possible by the seamless sharing of intelligence and resources among the 22 participating nations. As West African criminal networks continue to evolve their tactics, this global crackdown serves as a stern warning that law enforcement remains committed to pursuing and dismantling organized crime wherever it operates.

NRSA Launches Sensitization Drive in Upper East Region for New Motorbike and Tricycle Regulations
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NRSA Launches Sensitization Drive in Upper East Region for New Motorbike and Tricycle Regulations

The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has commenced a comprehensive sensitization campaign in the Upper East Region to educate commercial motorbike and tricycle operators on the newly enacted Ghana Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (Legislative Instrument 2519). This legislative framework, which received parliamentary approval in December 2025, represents a significant step toward streamlining the operations of the commercial transport sector, particularly for "Pragia" and "Okada" services. The initiative marks the beginning of a six-month educational transition period designed to ensure that all stakeholders are fully informed of and compliant with the new standards before strict enforcement begins. Under the provisions of L.I. 2519, the regulatory landscape for two- and three-wheeled commercial transport is set to change fundamentally to enhance road safety. Key mandates include a requirement for all operators to belong to a recognized union, a move intended to facilitate better internal supervision, training, and accountability. Furthermore, the law sets a minimum age of 21 for commercial riders and reinforces the mandatory use of crash helmets for both riders and passengers. These measures are specifically targeted at reducing the high rate of road traffic accidents associated with these modes of transport and ensuring that operators possess the necessary maturity and protection to handle the responsibilities of public conveyance. The outreach program has received significant backing from local industry leaders, including the Upper East Regional Chairman of the National Union of Tricycle Operators Ghana. This collaboration between the NRSA and transport unions is seen as critical for the successful implementation of the law across the region. By focusing on education rather than immediate punitive action during this phase, the NRSA aims to foster a culture of voluntary compliance among riders. As the six-month grace period progresses, the Authority expects that these enhanced safety protocols will lead to a measurable decrease in road fatalities and injuries, ultimately creating a safer and more organized transport environment for all Ghanaians.

ECG Announces Scheduled Six-Hour Power Maintenance Outage for Key Ashanti Region Communities
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ECG Announces Scheduled Six-Hour Power Maintenance Outage for Key Ashanti Region Communities

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced a scheduled power outage affecting several communities in the Ashanti Region on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. The planned interruption is expected to last for six hours, beginning at 9:00 a.m. and concluding at 3:00 p.m. According to the utility provider, this downtime is essential for carrying out critical maintenance work designed to enhance service delivery and improve the overall reliability of the power grid in the region. Residents and businesses in the designated areas are advised to make the necessary arrangements to mitigate the impact of the temporary loss of power. The outage will affect a wide range of residential and commercial enclaves, including Effiduase, Apemso, Asekyerewa, and the Senkyi enclaves. Other areas listed in the maintenance schedule include Asenua, parts of Ahwiaa, Overseas, and Maase. Educational institutions are also expected to be impacted, with Simms Senior High School (SHS) specifically mentioned in the ECG’s announcement. Furthermore, parts of Fawoade, Adumakase Kese, Wawase, and Meduma will experience the six-hour disruption as technical teams work on the infrastructure. This maintenance exercise is part of a broader strategy by the ECG to address potential technical flaws and upgrade existing distribution systems. By performing these scheduled tasks, the company aims to prevent unexpected equipment failure and ensure a more stable electricity supply for the growing population in the Ashanti Region. The ECG has apologized for the inconvenience this maintenance may cause to its customers and has expressed its commitment to restoring power promptly by the 3:00 p.m. deadline. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels for any further updates regarding the power situation.

Rev. Wengam re-elected General Superintendent of Assemblies of God, Ghana
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Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam Re-elected as General Superintendent of Assemblies of God, Ghana with Overwhelming Majority

Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam has secured a decisive mandate to continue leading the Assemblies of God, Ghana, following his re-election as General Superintendent. During the church's 32nd Biennial General Council Meeting held on August 21, 2026, Rev. Wengam received an overwhelming endorsement from the delegates, signaling strong confidence in his leadership and the ongoing transformation of the denomination. His victory marks the commencement of a new four-year term dedicated to consolidating the church's growth and expanding its spiritual and social impact across the nation. The election results showcased a significant margin of victory for the incumbent. Rev. Wengam garnered 3,727 votes, representing approximately 89.61% of the total valid votes cast. His contender, Rev. Dr. Kwame B. Bansah, received 432 votes, or 10.39%. Alongside the General Superintendent, the council appointed a refreshed leadership team to support the executive vision. This new administration includes Rev. Dr. Kwadwo Bempah as Assistant General Superintendent and Rev. Dr. Albert Anane as General Secretary, forming a core executive body tasked with administrative and spiritual oversight. In his acceptance remarks, Rev. Wengam expressed profound gratitude for the renewed trust and emphasized a commitment to church unity and aggressive evangelism. A centerpiece of his upcoming tenure is the "MM33" agenda, a strategic focus on global evangelism and church planting. He also highlighted the continued progress of the Centenary City Project, a landmark infrastructure initiative designed to commemorate the church’s upcoming 100th anniversary. Looking ahead, Rev. Wengam called on the congregants and leadership to remain steadfast and united as they prepare for the World Assemblies of God Congress in October 2026. The meeting concluded with prayers for the church's future growth, with the leadership promising to prioritize spiritual revitalization and the completion of major legacy projects that will define the church's influence for the next century.

Madina Residents Raise Alarm Over Dangerous Proximity of High-Voltage Power Lines at Rawlings Circle
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Madina Residents Raise Alarm Over Dangerous Proximity of High-Voltage Power Lines at Rawlings Circle

Residents and traders at Rawlings Circle in Madina are calling for urgent state intervention as electricity poles and high-voltage power lines increasingly encroach on residential and commercial spaces. Recent investigations have revealed a perilous situation where multiple structures have been erected dangerously close to electrical infrastructure, with some utility poles even passing directly through existing buildings. This encroachment has sparked widespread fears of imminent electrocution and catastrophic electrical fires among the local community, many of whom feel trapped by the surrounding hazards. The risk is far from theoretical, as residents report a high frequency of fire outbreaks linked to substandard electrical installations and the overcrowding of structures near power grids. Kofi, a local shop attendant, emphasized the dire need for authorities to step in before a major tragedy occurs. Technical experts, including fibre-optic engineer Samuel, have highlighted the severe dangers of these encroachments, suggesting that a safety buffer of at least 50 meters should be strictly maintained between buildings and high-tension lines. Currently, many structures stand mere inches away from live wires, representing a blatant disregard for safety margins and standard building regulations. The safety crisis extends beyond Madina, with similar hazardous conditions recently observed at Pokuase ACP. In response to these mounting concerns, the Ga North Municipal Assembly has signaled its intent to take decisive action against unsafe constructions. Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) Akwetey Agbo stated that the Assembly plans to collaborate with relevant state agencies to dismantle structures that pose a clear danger to public safety. This enforcement drive will reportedly be paired with educational campaigns intended to sensitize the public on the legal and physical risks of building near high-voltage equipment. Despite the mounting pressure from residents and local authorities, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has yet to provide a formal response or a clear timeline for technical interventions. The situation at Rawlings Circle serves as a stark reminder of the broader challenges facing urban planning and utility management in Ghana’s rapidly expanding municipal areas. Moving forward, the success of the Ga North Municipal Assembly’s intervention will depend on consistent enforcement of building codes and regular inspections to ensure that commercial development does not continue to compromise human life.

Tragic Landfill Collapse in Conakry Claims at Least 30 Lives Following Heavy Rains
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Tragic Landfill Collapse in Conakry Claims at Least 30 Lives Following Heavy Rains

At least 30 people have been confirmed dead after a massive landfill mound collapsed onto residential homes in Guinea's capital, Conakry. The disaster occurred early Sunday morning in the Dar-es-salam neighborhood of the Bbessia district, triggered by days of torrential rainfall that destabilized the waste site. Rescue workers and local volunteers continue to search through the debris for survivors and more bodies, with at least six individuals reported injured and receiving medical attention. Initial reports from witnesses and officials had suggested a lower toll, but the recovery of more victims throughout the day confirmed the increased number of fatalities. Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos as the sodden mountain of trash gave way, burying informal housing built at the base of the landfill. The bodies recovered from the site have been transported to a local morgue as the community grapples with the scale of the tragedy. This incident highlights the severe risks faced by residents living in close proximity to massive waste disposal sites, particularly during the peak of West Africa's rainy season. The collapse follows repeated warnings from Guinean government officials regarding the precarious state of the landfill. Authorities had previously identified the site as a high-risk zone and had even initiated measures to expel residents from the immediate vicinity to prevent such a catastrophe. Despite these safety efforts and official warnings, many families remained in the area, often due to a lack of affordable alternative housing options in the densely populated capital. As recovery efforts transition toward assessing the long-term safety of the remaining structures, the Guinean government faces mounting pressure to address urban waste management and housing safety. This tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need for sustainable infrastructure and stricter enforcement of zoning laws in rapidly expanding urban centers. For now, the focus remains on supporting the bereaved families and ensuring that those displaced by the collapse receive immediate humanitarian assistance.

Ghana National Fire Service Denies Unpaid 2025 Rent Allowance Claims, Confirms April 2026 Completion
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Ghana National Fire Service Denies Unpaid 2025 Rent Allowance Claims, Confirms April 2026 Completion

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has officially dismissed circulating reports and social media rumors suggesting that it has failed to pay personnel their 2025 rent allowances. In a formal statement released on August 21, 2026, the Service characterized these claims as "false and unfounded," clarifying that all financial obligations regarding the previous year's rent allowance were concluded months ago. The denial comes in response to growing speculation that threatened to cause unrest among the ranks of the national emergency response agency. According to the GNFS management, the final installment for the 2025 rent allowance was disbursed to all eligible personnel as of April 2026. The Service urged both the general public and its staff members to disregard the misinformation, which they claim is intended to mislead. By providing specific timelines for the completion of these payments, the GNFS administration aimed to reassure its workforce and external stakeholders of its adherence to administrative and financial schedules despite any external narratives to the contrary. Looking ahead, the GNFS announced that proactive measures are already being implemented to manage future disbursements and prevent similar misunderstandings. A dedicated committee has been established to facilitate the payment process for the 2026 rent allowance, ensuring a streamlined and transparent approach. The management expressed its appreciation for the patience shown by personnel and reaffirmed its commitment to their welfare, emphasizing an open-door communication policy designed to address internal concerns directly and maintain organizational morale.

VIDEO from Ejisu: How a suspected car thief tried to run away and ended up running over a crowd
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Suspected Car Snatcher Apprehended in Ejisu After Crashing Into Crowd During Failed Escape

A suspected robber is currently in police custody following a dramatic and violent attempt to snatch a taxi in Ejisu, Ashanti Region, on Saturday. The incident, which occurred near the Ejisu traffic junction, took a dangerous turn when the suspect lost control of the stolen vehicle during his attempt to flee the scene. The ensuing crash resulted in several bystanders being run over, causing significant alarm and injuries among the local crowd. According to eyewitness accounts and reports from the scene, the suspect allegedly attacked a taxi driver within the Ejisu vicinity, forcefully demanding the keys to the vehicle. After seizing the car and attempting a high-speed getaway, the suspect quickly lost control of the taxi. The vehicle veered off its path and plowed into a group of people gathered near the junction. Footage of the aftermath, which shows the damaged vehicle and the chaotic scene, has since circulated widely on social media platforms. Following the collision, a mob of residents and onlookers moved in to apprehend the suspect, preventing him from escaping on foot. Officers from the Ejisu Police Station arrived swiftly at the scene to take the suspect into custody and restore order. The quick intervention of the police likely prevented the situation from escalating into a case of mob justice, as tensions were high following the injuries to the pedestrians. Police have launched a formal investigation into the robbery and the subsequent accident that left several people injured. While the suspect remains in detention awaiting charges, authorities are also monitoring the condition of those who were struck by the vehicle. The incident has raised fresh concerns among residents regarding the safety of transport operators and the prevalence of car-related crimes in the Ashanti Region.