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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.

Ghana Police Launch Nationwide Crackdown After High-Profile Murder, Jailbreak, and Surge in Violent Crimes
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Ghana Police Launch Nationwide Crackdown After High-Profile Murder, Jailbreak, and Surge in Violent Crimes

The Ghana Police Service has intensified its operations across the country following a series of high-profile crimes, including the murder of an Indian national in Kumasi and a jailbreak in Accra. In Kumasi, authorities arrested a suspect in connection with the death of Devendra Singh, whose body was discovered in the boot of his car on April 25, 2026. Mr. Singh, who had been reported missing, was found with multiple stab wounds in his vehicle parked near the Royal Lemosey Hospital. To bolster the local investigation, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has deployed a specialized team of intelligence and homicide investigators to ensure a thorough pursuit of justice. Simultaneously, the Accra Regional Police Command is on high alert following the escape of six inmates from the Adabraka District Police Station on April 26. While three of the escapees have since been rearrested, a massive manhunt continues for the remaining three suspects. In the Upper West Region, police scored a significant victory with the arrest of Tall Moumouni, a suspected hardened armed robber linked to multiple serious crimes, including murder, in the Sissala East Municipality. These operations underscore a broader effort to dismantle criminal networks, which also saw the arrest of a local blacksmith in Akatsi, Volta Region, for allegedly manufacturing firearms for robbery syndicates. The justice system is also processing severe cases of sexual violence and mysterious deaths reported over the same period. In the Central Region, police are appealing for public help in identifying a severely mutilated body discovered between Eyisam and Ekumfi Techiman on April 26. Meanwhile, legal proceedings are underway for two significant defilement cases. Saviour Awi, a 22-year-old motor rider, appeared in court for the alleged defilement of an 11-year-old girl in Twifo Nyinase, while in Amasaman, 56-year-old Simon Wiafe has been remanded for the repeated abuse of his 13-year-old stepdaughter, which resulted in a pregnancy. These various incidents have prompted law enforcement to reiterate the importance of community vigilance. Police authorities are urging the public to rely on verified information and report any suspicious activities or leads regarding the outstanding fugitives and unidentified victims. As investigations into these diverse cases continue, the Ghana Police Service remains committed to maintaining security and ensuring that perpetrators of violent and predatory crimes face the full rigors of the law.

National Power Grid Stabilizes as Akosombo Dam Units Return After Major Substation Fire
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National Power Grid Stabilizes as Akosombo Dam Units Return After Major Substation Fire

Ghana's energy sector is grappling with the aftermath of a catastrophic fire at the Akosombo GRIDCo substation, which forced a total shutdown of the Akosombo Dam and triggered nationwide power outages. The inferno, which broke out on April 23 at approximately 2:01 p.m., caused what officials describe as a "serious system shock," stranding over 1,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity. The Ministry of Energy confirmed that the shutdown was a necessary safety measure after critical infrastructure, including the primary control room and switchgear systems, was severely damaged or destroyed, making continued operations unsafe. Energy Minister Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor and Ministry spokesperson Richmond Rockson detailed the extent of the disaster, noting that the destruction at the substation was unprecedented. The fire ravaged the facility’s control systems, making the evacuation of power to the national grid impossible. Engineers and technical teams from GRIDCo and the Volta River Authority (VRA) have been working under difficult conditions to assess the damage and salvage the operations. Despite the scale of the destruction—with some key installations declared beyond recovery—emergency interventions were prioritized to stabilize the grid and prevent a prolonged total blackout. In a positive turn, Dr. Jinapor announced that partial restoration has been achieved as of April 27. Following intensive technical work, two generating units have been successfully brought back online and synchronized with the national grid. Efforts are currently focused on restoring a third unit, with the Minister praising the dedication of the engineering teams who have worked continuously since the crisis began. While the system is not yet at full capacity, the gradual return of these units has begun to alleviate the nationwide supply interruptions that have affected millions of consumers. The Ministry of Energy expects power supply to return to normalcy within the week as technical assessments and repairs continue. Beyond immediate restoration, the government has signaled a move toward greater grid resilience, including a nationwide transformer upgrade plan intended to prevent similar failures in the future. An official investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing. As the nation awaits a full return to stability, the unprecedented nature of this substation disaster serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of the country's central power hub and the critical need for modernized energy infrastructure.

National and International News Briefing: Ghana Advances Hajj 2026 Planning Amid Global Security Alarms and Personal Leadership Insights
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National and International News Briefing: Ghana Advances Hajj 2026 Planning Amid Global Security Alarms and Personal Leadership Insights

Ghana has officially commenced its logistical preparations for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, with an advance team led by Abubakar BN Tanko already on the ground in Saudi Arabia. The delegation is currently engaged in high-level consultations with Ghana’s Consul General and Saudi authorities to secure essential services, including accommodation, catering, and transportation. Preliminary inspections of hotels and healthcare facilities in Medina, Mina, and Arafat are underway to ensure the safety and comfort of Ghanaian pilgrims. This proactive approach aims to finalize all critical arrangements well ahead of the pilgrimage season to avoid previous years' logistical challenges. On the international front, a significant security incident occurred at a White House Correspondents' Dinner, where former President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance were evacuated following gunshots. Footage from the event captured the moment Trump stumbled while being ushered to safety by the U.S. Secret Service. Authorities have since taken a suspect, identified as Cole Tomas Allen, into custody, and have confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to the public. Trump later remarked on the shocking nature of the incident, which occurred during a high-profile gathering of political and media figures. Back in Ghana, two prominent public figures have shared deeply personal stories of resilience and life-altering challenges. Ruth Dela Seddoh, the Director-General of the National Service Authority, recently opened up about a traumatic childbirth experience involving 48 hours of labor and complications following a caesarean section. She highlighted the dangers of returning to professional duties too quickly after surgery, which led to her stitches reopening, and urged working mothers to prioritize their recovery and childcare planning. Similarly, Dr. Darius Kofi Osei, the founding CEO of the University of Ghana Medical Centre, shared an emotional account of his upbringing, revealing that he only discovered his true biological parentage at the age of 16. These personal histories, detailed in Dr. Osei’s upcoming book, shed light on the private struggles behind Ghana’s public leadership. Together, these developments highlight a week defined by rigorous institutional planning and the navigation of unexpected crises. While the Hajj advance team focuses on the meticulous coordination of international travel and religious observance, the security breach in Washington serves as a reminder of the volatility of the global political landscape. Meanwhile, the personal testimonies from Ruth Dela Seddoh and Dr. Darius Osei provide a human perspective on leadership, emphasizing the importance of maternal health support and the strength required to overcome complex family histories. These narratives collectively underscore the multifaceted nature of governance, ranging from international diplomacy to the personal well-being of citizens.

GMet Issues Severe Weather Warning for Ghana Amidst Fatal Bus Accident in Biakoye District
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GMet Issues Severe Weather Warning for Ghana Amidst Fatal Bus Accident in Biakoye District

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has issued an urgent weather alert for April 26, warning of a significant rainstorm moving westward from the Togo–Benin border. This weather system is expected to bring widespread cloudiness, intense thunderstorms, and varying rainfall intensities across several regions. Authorities have specifically highlighted the coastal and middle zones, including major urban centers such as Accra, Keta, and Cape Coast, as areas likely to experience the brunt of the storm, which is accompanied by warnings of dangerously strong winds. Residents in the affected regions are strongly advised to take necessary precautionary measures as the storm system progresses. GMet emphasizes the importance of staying indoors during the peak of thunderstorms to avoid risks associated with lightning and potential damage from high winds. The westward movement of the system suggests that weather conditions may deteriorate rapidly, potentially impacting transportation and daily activities across the southern half of the country throughout the day. In a separate and tragic development on the same calendar day, a fatal road accident has claimed two lives at Nkonya Bumbula in the Biakoye District. A 50-seater passenger bus, traveling fully loaded from Accra to Salaga, overturned while negotiating a curve on the Accra–Salaga highway. Preliminary reports from the scene suggest the vehicle lost control due to a suspected tyre burst and excessive speed. This incident has once again brought road safety concerns to the forefront of national discourse as emergency services manage the aftermath. Emergency response teams from the Ghana National Fire Service were quickly deployed to the site of the crash to rescue passengers trapped within the wreckage. Beyond the two confirmed fatalities, several other passengers sustained varying degrees of injuries and were transported to the Margaret Marquart Catholic Hospital for urgent medical attention. The fire service's prompt intervention was crucial in ensuring that survivors were extracted safely and received immediate care following the devastating rollover. These two events—the impending severe weather and the tragic highway accident—highlight a day of heightened risk for citizens across Ghana. Public safety officials are urging the public to remain vigilant, whether they are navigating the nation's highways or preparing for the incoming rainstorm. Continued monitoring of weather updates and strict adherence to road safety protocols, such as maintaining moderate speeds and checking vehicle conditions, are essential to preventing further loss of life during these volatile periods.

Fire Ravages Sunyani Court Complex, Destroying Critical Legal Records and Equipment
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Fire Ravages Sunyani Court Complex, Destroying Critical Legal Records and Equipment

A devastating fire outbreak in the early hours of Sunday, October 1, 2023, has razed the Sunyani Court Complex, resulting in the total destruction of critical judicial infrastructure. The fire, which engulfed the Circuit Court and the District Magistrate Courts ‘A’ and ‘B’ in the Bono Region, has left the legal community and local residents in a state of shock. Reports indicate that the blaze effectively erased years of judicial records, case files, and modern computing equipment, creating a significant setback for the administration of justice in the region. Firefighters from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) responded to the scene, though reports on the exact start time vary between 1:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m. Despite their timely response, the firefighting efforts were severely hampered by significant logistical hurdles. Personnel faced critical water shortages and issues with firefighting equipment, which delayed the containment of the inferno. It took approximately eight hours of continuous effort to finally bring the flames under control, but by that time, the interior of the courts, including furniture and essential archives, had been reduced to ashes. The aftermath of the fire has raised urgent concerns among litigants and legal practitioners who had pending cases within the affected courts. The loss of physical case files and digital records on computers poses a major challenge to the continuity of legal proceedings and the security of judicial data. While the cause of the fire remains undetermined, officials are expected to launch a full investigation to identify the source of the outbreak. As the judicial service assesses the extent of the damage, the incident highlights a pressing need for improved fire safety protocols and the robust digitization of legal archives to prevent such catastrophic data loss in the future.

Police Arrest Suspect Following Discovery of Indian National’s Body in Car Boot in Ashanti Region
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Police Arrest Suspect Following Discovery of Indian National’s Body in Car Boot in Ashanti Region

The Ashanti Regional Police Command has launched a high-profile investigation following the discovery of the body of an Indian national, identified as Devendra Singh (also referred to as Davindra Singh), in the boot of his own vehicle. Mr. Singh, a resident of Ahenema Kokoben, had been reported missing several days prior to the gruesome discovery on April 25, 2026. Preliminary reports from the scene in the Sabin Akrofuom area indicate that the victim sustained multiple stab wounds, with significant bloodstains found inside the vehicle, pointing to a violent act of foul play. The vehicle was found abandoned along the roadside in the Konkoli vicinity, prompting local residents to alert the authorities. Upon inspection, officers discovered the victim's remains in the trunk. In a swift response to the incident, the police have already taken one suspect into custody in connection with the murder. The vehicle has been impounded for forensic examination, and the body has been transported for an autopsy to officially determine the cause of death and assist in the ongoing criminal inquiry. To ensure a comprehensive investigation, a specialized team of intelligence and homicide officers has been deployed to assist local authorities in Kumasi. Police officials, including Deputy Superintendent of Police Godwin Ahianyo, are urging members of the public who may have witnessed suspicious activity or have relevant information to come forward. The regional command has reaffirmed its commitment to tracking down all individuals involved in the crime and ensuring that justice is served for the deceased and his family.

Major Power Outage Hits Ashanti, Central Regions and Tema Following Akosombo Substation Fire
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Major Power Outage Hits Ashanti, Central Regions and Tema Following Akosombo Substation Fire

On April 25, 2026, a major fire at the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) substation in Akosombo triggered widespread power outages across southern and middle Ghana. The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) confirmed that the incident severely curtailed electricity supply to the Ashanti and Central Regions, as well as the industrial heartland of Tema. This disruption has left thousands of homes and critical institutions in darkness, highlighting the fragility of the national grid during a sudden infrastructure failure. The blackout has had a profound impact on major urban centers and educational institutions. In the Ashanti Region, the city of Kumasi and the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) were among the hardest hit. Similarly, in the Central Region, disruptions were reported in Cape Coast, Pedu, and the University of Cape Coast (UCC). The industrial hub of Tema faced significant setbacks, with production slowing down at major manufacturing plants such as Olam Grains and Nestlé, raising immediate concerns about the economic cost of the outage to the manufacturing sector. ECG has assured the public that engineering teams are working around the clock to restore power and stabilize the grid. While the immediate focus remains on restoration, the incident has reignited a national conversation regarding the vulnerabilities of Ghana’s power infrastructure. Small businesses and healthcare facilities have also reported disruptions, emphasizing the far-reaching consequences of substation failures on essential services and the local economy. Formal investigations into the cause of the fire are expected to commence shortly as part of the efforts to prevent future occurrences. Beyond the immediate technical repairs, the incident underscores the urgent need for improved response systems and infrastructure upgrades within the energy sector. As ECG and GRIDCo work toward a full recovery, stakeholders continue to call for more robust preventive measures to safeguard the nation's energy security.

One of the classroom blocks
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Ghana News Brief: Oti Region Bus Tragedy, 2026 Hajj Logistics, and New School Infrastructure

Ghana faces a mix of tragedy and progress this week as a fatal bus accident in the Oti Region claims lives, while national preparations for the annual Hajj pilgrimage and educational improvements in the North gain momentum. In a somber development on the Nkonya Wurupong–Kwamekrom road, a Marcopolo bus traveling from Accra to Salaga overturned in the early hours of the morning, resulting in at least two fatalities. Preliminary reports from the Biakoye District suggest the victims were a couple traveling for a family introduction ceremony. Several other passengers sustained injuries and were rushed to Kpando Hospital for emergency treatment after being rescued from the wreckage by local emergency services. On the national front, the Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana has confirmed that the 2026 Hajj airlifting operations will commence on May 1. A total of 18 flights are scheduled to transport approximately 5,000 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia, with the first leg of departures set to begin from Tamale before moving to Accra. Communications Director Alhaji Mohammed Amin Lamptey stated that an advance team has already been dispatched to coordinate logistics. He emphasized the importance of security and strict adherence to regulations, specifically warning pilgrims against carrying contraband to protect Ghana's international reputation during the holy pilgrimage. In the Upper East Region, the Kassena Nankana West District Assembly has successfully inaugurated four significant educational projects aimed at enhancing teaching and learning environments. Funded by GETFund and the SOCO Project, the new facilities include classroom blocks and sanitation facilities in Nakolo, Nyonga, and Katiu, as well as a kindergarten block in Yidania. District Chief Executive Stephen Aeke Akurugo urged local communities to take ownership of these facilities while acknowledging the ongoing need to address furniture shortages and improve access roads to the schools. Rounding out the week’s news, social and relationship guidance took center stage as Pastor Ernest Acquah Wesley of Love Crusaders Chapel addressed the dynamics of financial support in dating. Speaking at a session titled "Choosing the Right Partner," the Head Pastor cautioned single women against feeling a sense of marriage obligation toward men who sponsor their education or business ventures. He argued that genuine relationships should be built on mutual intention and clear communication rather than emotional debts, advising both men and women to clarify their expectations before significant financial support is exchanged.

Former Ghana Coach Chris Hughton Declares Recovery from Prostate Cancer, Urges Early Detection Awareness
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Former Ghana Coach Chris Hughton Declares Recovery from Prostate Cancer, Urges Early Detection Awareness

Chris Hughton, the former head coach of the Black Stars and veteran Premier League manager, has officially announced that he is cancer-free following a diagnosis and subsequent surgery for prostate cancer. The 67-year-old tactician, who managed the Ghanaian national team until early 2024, underwent a successful operation in May 2025 to remove his prostate. His recovery marks a significant personal victory for the coach, who is widely respected for his contributions to football in both England and Africa. Reflecting on the initial diagnosis, Hughton shared that the illness was detected during a routine health check. Despite the gravity of the news, he maintained a remarkably calm and pragmatic perspective, stating that the diagnosis did not scare him. "My first impression was: ‘I’ll be fine,’" Hughton remarked, adding that he focused immediately on the necessary medical steps rather than the fear of the disease. He noted that as a Black man over the age of 50 with a family history of prostate cancer, he fell into a high-risk category. Regular blood tests monitoring his prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels were instrumental in the early identification and successful management of the condition. Now one year post-operation, Hughton reports feeling energetic and healthy, attributing his smooth rehabilitation to staying both physically and mentally active. His storied coaching career, which includes managing 169 Premier League matches and securing top-flight promotions for Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion, has always been defined by his activity and focus. Hughton’s decision to opt for surgery followed expert medical advice and a comprehensive review of treatment options, a choice that has now allowed him to regain his health and vitality. Beyond his personal recovery, Hughton is now dedicated to using his platform to advocate for greater awareness regarding prostate health and the life-saving importance of early detection. By sharing his journey, he hopes to encourage other men—particularly those in high-risk demographics—to prioritize regular screenings and health checks. His experience serves as a powerful reminder that early action, supported by professional medical guidance, remains the most effective tool in the fight against prostate cancer.

23-Year-Old Man Sentenced to Seven Years for Defiling Minor in Hohoe
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23-Year-Old Man Sentenced to Seven Years for Defiling Minor in Hohoe

The Hohoe Circuit Court has sentenced 23-year-old Felix Agbodzi to seven years in prison with hard labour for the defilement of a 12-year-old girl. The ruling, delivered on April 14, 2026, marks a swift resolution to a case that has drawn significant attention to the protection of minors in the Gbi-Akplamafu area of the Volta Region. The conviction followed a rapid investigation and prosecution process spearheaded by the Volta North Regional Police Command, which successfully brought the perpetrator to justice shortly after the crime was reported. Details emerging from the proceedings indicate that Agbodzi lured the young victim to his residence, where the abuse occurred. Following the incident, the Volta North Regional Police acted decisively, apprehending the suspect on April 13, 2026. When he was brought before the Hohoe Circuit Court the following day, Agbodzi pleaded guilty to the charges, which constituted a clear violation of the Criminal Offences Act of Ghana. This admission of guilt facilitated an immediate custodial sentence, reflecting the judiciary's commitment to handling cases of sexual violence against children with urgency. The Ghana Police Service has lauded the prompt judicial response in this matter, citing it as a significant victory for child safety and legal accountability. By securing a conviction within 24 hours of the arrest, the authorities have sent a strong message regarding the efficiency of the regional justice system. The inclusion of hard labour in the seven-year sentence underscores the gravity with which the court views the exploitation of minors and serves as a deterrent to potential offenders within the community. In the aftermath of the sentencing, the Volta North Regional Police Command has encouraged members of the public to remain vigilant and proactive in reporting cases of defilement and other forms of abuse. Officials emphasized that public cooperation and the timely reporting of crimes are essential for the successful prosecution of offenders and the maintenance of community safety. This case highlights the ongoing efforts by Ghanaian law enforcement and the judiciary to provide justice for victims and foster a safer environment for children across the country.

Ernest Chemists Supports Ghana Prisons Service with Vital Supplies Amidst Growing Healthcare Crisis
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Ernest Chemists Supports Ghana Prisons Service with Vital Supplies Amidst Growing Healthcare Crisis

Ghana’s prison system is currently grappling with a significant healthcare crisis, driven by a critical shortage of essential medicines that affects both inmates and officers across the country. This shortage has severely compromised the ability of the Ghana Prisons Service to provide timely and effective medical care within its facilities. To address this systemic failure, the Ghana Prisons Service has announced an ambitious plan to establish a centralized "medicine bank." This initiative is designed to ensure a consistent and reliable supply of drugs across all prison facilities, mitigating the risks associated with the current fragmented and inadequate supply chain. In a direct response to this burgeoning crisis, pharmaceutical giant Ernest Chemists Limited has stepped forward to provide essential medical supplies to the service. This intervention is part of the company's broader commitment to improving healthcare access for underserved populations. Deputy Director of Prisons, Edward Ashun, has acknowledged that the lack of adequate medical resources has long been a stumbling block for the service, noting that these shortages have historically hindered the effective treatment of patients. The support from Ernest Chemists is seen as a vital intervention that provides immediate relief while the broader infrastructure for the medicine bank is being developed. The current situation highlights a broader need for structural reforms and enhanced collaboration within Ghana's correctional healthcare system. By moving toward a centralized medicine bank, the Ghana Prisons Service aims to create a sustainable model for healthcare delivery that is less vulnerable to localized shortages and procurement delays. Furthermore, the partnership with Ernest Chemists serves as a call to action for other private sector entities. Officials hope this initiative will inspire more public-private collaborations to close the healthcare gaps that persist in the prison system, ensuring that the right to health is upheld for all individuals within the correctional system.

KNUST Clarifies Off-Campus Status of Alleged Student Assault and Extortion Cases
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KNUST Clarifies Off-Campus Status of Alleged Student Assault and Extortion Cases

On April 24, 2026, the Management of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) issued a formal rejoinder addressing reports of sexual assault and extortion involving two of its students. The university clarified that while the victims are indeed students, the distressing incidents occurred outside the boundaries of the main university campus, specifically within the Ayeduase community. This clarification was released to correct what the university described as "misleading impressions" regarding the location of the crimes and the safety of its campus environment. According to the university’s official statement, the primary suspect—a private security guard who is currently in police custody—has no professional affiliation or ties to KNUST’s internal security services. The university emphasized that the incidents happened in an area not under its direct security oversight. Despite the off-campus location, the institution has been actively involved in the legal process, ensuring the cases were reported to the District Police Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) for thorough investigation and prosecution. In response to the gravity of the allegations, KNUST management confirmed that they are providing comprehensive psychological and medical support to the affected students. This intervention is part of the university's commitment to student welfare and victim advocacy, ensuring that those impacted receive the necessary care to aid their recovery. The university remains in close communication with law enforcement to monitor the progress of the suspect's detention and the subsequent legal proceedings. To prevent the further spread of misinformation, the University Relations Office has urged media outlets and the public to verify sensitive details with their office before publication. Management stressed that accurate reporting is essential to maintain public trust and protect the dignity of the individuals involved. As the investigation continues, the university continues to advocate for the safety of its student body, highlighting the importance of security vigilance in both on-campus and off-campus residential areas.