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.

news|

Seven Dead, Including Five Americans, in Kenya Helicopter Crash Near Mount Ololokwe

A tragic helicopter crash in northern Kenya has claimed the lives of seven people, including six foreign tourists and a pilot. The incident occurred near the iconic Mount Ololokwe in Samburu County, shortly after the aircraft departed from the Loisaba nature reserve on Wednesday. The crash has drawn international attention, with confirmation of the victims' nationalities coming from official government channels in both Kenya and the United States. Among the deceased, the U.S. State Department has confirmed that five were United States citizens, while one has been identified as an Ecuadorian national. While the operator and the tour company have confirmed the deaths of all seven individuals on board, the identity and nationality of the pilot remain undisclosed at this stage. The aircraft involved in the fatal accident was identified as a Eurocopter EC130 B4, a model frequently used for scenic tours and wildlife viewing in Kenya's expansive wilderness regions. In the wake of the tragedy, Kenya's Ministry of Transport and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) have launched a full-scale investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Investigators are expected to examine weather conditions at the time of the flight, the mechanical records of the helicopter, and the specific timeline of events following its departure from the nature reserve. Both the tour operator and the Loisaba nature reserve management are reportedly cooperating with the ongoing probe. This incident underscores the inherent risks associated with remote aerial tourism, even within sectors that typically maintain high safety standards. As the KCAA works to analyze the wreckage and retrieve any available flight data, the international community remains focused on the repatriation of the victims. Further updates from the Ministry of Transport are expected once the preliminary investigation concludes, which will hopefully provide much-needed clarity for the families of the deceased.

GRIDCo Announces Sunday Power Outages Across Greater Accra and Ashaiman for Urgent Transmission Tower Repairs
news|

GRIDCo Announces Sunday Power Outages Across Greater Accra and Ashaiman for Urgent Transmission Tower Repairs

Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) has announced a significant power interruption scheduled for Sunday, August 23, 2026, affecting numerous residents and businesses across the Greater Accra Region and the Ashaiman municipality. The planned outage, which is expected to last up to 15 hours in some sectors, is necessary to facilitate emergency maintenance and the replacement of a transmission tower that was previously damaged by a tanker explosion. This critical infrastructure work is aimed at restoring the long-term reliability of the national grid after the unforeseen damage. The interruption is scheduled to begin at 3:00 a.m. and is expected to conclude by 6:00 p.m. Impacted areas span across both the Accra West and Accra East operational zones of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). Specific communities identified include James Town, Mamprobi, Nima Township, and Madina Township. In the Ashaiman area, specifically along the Volta–Achimota 161kV transmission line, work is focused on the V19H and V24H lines. Reports indicate that some specific maintenance windows in the Ashaiman section may occur between 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. as part of the broader repair schedule. GRIDCo noted that these repairs were originally scheduled for completion on August 16, 2026, but additional efforts were required to ensure the total safety and integrity of the transmission line. The utility provider has officially requested the cooperation of the ECG to manage local power loads during the maintenance period to protect technical teams working on the high-voltage equipment. This coordination is essential to prevent broader system instability while the V19H and V24H lines are offline. GRIDCo has issued a formal apology to the public for the inconvenience these outages will cause to domestic and commercial activities. Residents in the affected communities are advised to plan their Sunday activities accordingly and to treat all electrical installations as live, as power may be restored earlier than anticipated if work progresses ahead of schedule. The company remains committed to completing the emergency works safely and efficiently to maintain Ghana's power transmission infrastructure.

18-Year-Old Former Student Arrested Following Fatal Sword Attack at Brinell School in Sweden
news|

18-Year-Old Former Student Arrested Following Fatal Sword Attack at Brinell School in Sweden

A tragic sword attack at Brinellskolan secondary school in Fagersta, Sweden, has left a 17-year-old girl dead and three others injured. The incident occurred as students were returning from their summer break, turning a period of academic renewal into a scene of violence. Authorities quickly apprehended an 18-year-old male suspect, identified as a former student of the institution, and have since charged him with murder and several counts of attempted murder. The attack took place approximately 170 kilometers northwest of Stockholm, sending shockwaves through the local community and the nation. Among the injured are two boys, aged 12 and 17, who sustained serious wounds during the assault, while a third individual was treated for minor injuries. Law enforcement officers who arrived at the scene reportedly fired their service weapons during the confrontation, though it remains unclear whether the suspect was struck. In the immediate aftermath, police conducted extensive house searches related to the 18-year-old and established a heavy security presence around the school grounds. Brinellskolan, which serves nearly 500 students, was placed under a precautionary lockdown alongside other nearby schools until the area was deemed secure. The gravity of the event prompted a high-level response from Swedish leadership. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and opposition leader Magdalena Andersson visited Fagersta to lay tributes and meet with affected families, emphasizing national unity in the face of the tragedy. King Carl XVI Gustaf also expressed his deep sorrow over the incident. While the region briefly declared a state of emergency, which has since been lifted, the municipality continues to offer counseling and support services to students and staff grappling with the trauma of the attack. As investigations continue, the motive behind the violent outburst remains unknown. Swedish government officials and law enforcement agencies are closely monitoring the situation, with a focus on understanding how the former student gained access and whether there were any prior warnings. The tragedy has reignited discussions regarding school safety and public security across Sweden, as the Fagersta community begins the long process of mourning and recovery.

Man shot dead by a suspected poacher at the Kakum Forest Reserve in the Assin South District of the Central Region
news|

Wildlife Guard Richard Otwey Fatally Shot by Suspected Poacher at Kakum Forest Reserve

In a tragic incident at the Kakum Forest Reserve on August 22, 2026, a 58-year-old Wildlife Resource Guard named Richard Otwey was shot and killed while on a routine anti-poaching patrol. Mr. Otwey was part of a three-member team in the Assin South District when they encountered two men suspected of illegal hunting within the protected area. The confrontation turned fatal when one of the suspects allegedly opened fire, highlighting the persistent and deadly risks faced by those tasked with protecting Ghana's natural heritage. The incident unfolded as the patrol team attempted to arrest the two suspects, identified as Bukari Abudu and John Mensah. According to police reports and colleague testimonies, Abudu allegedly fired a single-barrel gun at Mr. Otwey, striking him in the chest. While the other guards managed to apprehend John Mensah at the scene, Abudu succeeded in fleeing into the dense forest and remains at large. Officers later discovered Mr. Otwey's body positioned under a wawa tree, where he had succumbed to his injuries instantly. Chief Superintendent Edmund Agyemang Badu confirmed the shooting and stated that the police have recovered significant evidence from the crime scene, including a spent cartridge and the single-barrel gun used in the attack. The body of the deceased has been moved to a local morgue for a formal post-mortem examination as part of the ongoing criminal investigation. Law enforcement agencies are currently intensifying their search for Bukari Abudu and have called on the general public to provide any information that might lead to his capture. This killing marks a somber moment for the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission, emphasizing the increasing volatility of encounters between law enforcement and poachers in Ghana’s forest reserves. As illegal hunting continues to threaten the biodiversity of sites like Kakum, authorities are being urged to review the safety protocols and equipment provided to guards. The community is encouraged to assist the police in ensuring that justice is served for Mr. Otwey’s family and that the sanctity of the nation's protected lands is maintained.

Police arrest suspect in GH¢1.1million fake gold deal at Berekum
news|

Bono Regional Police Arrest Suspect in GH¢1.1 Million Fake Gold Fraud Syndicate at Berekum

The Bono Regional Police Command has apprehended 36-year-old Gyamfi Christian in connection with a major fraudulent gold transaction in Berekum that resulted in the loss of GH¢1.1 million. The suspect, who was captured following an intelligence-led operation on August 17, 2026, is alleged to be part of a sophisticated syndicate targeting gold buyers in the region. The arrest followed a formal complaint by a gold aggregator, Christopher Awuni, who discovered he had been sold counterfeit material instead of the precious metal he bargained for. The scheme began in July 2026 when the victim, Mr. Awuni, was approached by a group of four men posing as legitimate gold sellers. He eventually purchased 110 troy ounces of what was presented as genuine gold for a total sum of GH¢1.1 million. However, subsequent testing by the authorities confirmed that the entire quantity was fake. Upon realizing the deception, the aggregator reported the matter to the Bono Regional Police, triggering an investigation that eventually traced Gyamfi to a hideout in Wamfie. During police interrogation, Gyamfi reportedly admitted his involvement in the fraudulent deal and identified three other accomplices who played key roles in the operation. These individuals currently remain at large, and police have intensified their search to bring them to justice. Disturbingly, preliminary investigations suggest that this group may be linked to a separate, even larger fraud case reported earlier this year, where another victim was allegedly swindled out of GH¢1.4 million using a similar modus operandi. In light of these developments, the police have issued a stern warning to gold dealers and prospective buyers to exercise extreme vigilance. Authorities are urging the public to utilize legitimate channels and verify the credentials of sellers through official regulatory bodies before committing to high-value transactions. Gyamfi Christian remains in police custody as investigations continue to uncover the full extent of the syndicate's operations and to track down the remaining fugitives.

National Road Safety Authority Launches New Motorbike Regulations as Asantehene Departs for United States
news|

National Road Safety Authority Launches New Motorbike Regulations as Asantehene Departs for United States

The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has launched a significant sensitization drive in the Upper East Region to educate commercial motorbike and tricycle operators on the newly passed Ghana Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (Legislative Instrument 2519). Parliament approved these regulations in December 2025 as a critical measure to curb road accidents and improve transit safety. Key mandates under the new law include a minimum age requirement of 21 for commercial riders, compulsory membership in a recognized union for better supervision, and the mandatory use of crash helmets. This six-month educational transition period is intended to ensure that operators are fully compliant with the legal framework before enforcement begins in earnest. Complementing these regulatory shifts, road safety experts like DCOP David Senanu Eklu (Rtd.) are advocating for a more robust, UK-style "penalty-points" system to replace Ghana's current one-time licensing process. Such a system would track a driver’s traffic history through a National Driver Safety Profile, allowing for early interventions and mandatory retraining for repeat offenders. While the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) maintains basic records, Eklu argues that an integrated system utilizing modern technology is essential to monitoring driver behavior over time. These proposals highlight a growing national shift toward viewing driving as a lifelong responsibility rather than a static certification. In the commercial and corporate sectors, the automotive industry saw high engagement at the commencement of the Absa Auto Fair at Ghud Park. Despite heavy morning rains, the event drew a significant crowd of car enthusiasts and potential buyers interested in test drives and various dealer promotions. Simultaneously, a separate corporate interaction involving billionaire Tony Elumelu sparked a national conversation on professional etiquette. Elumelu’s public correction of a trainee who addressed him informally has triggered a debate on the balance between modern corporate culture and traditional hierarchies in professional settings, reflecting differing cultural perspectives on office formality. Rounding out the week’s major events, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has officially departed for a high-profile trip to the United States. His departure from the Manhyia Palace for the Prempeh I International Airport was marked by a ceremonial convoy and significant police presence, as captured in widely shared social media footage on August 23, 2026. This journey follows a week characterized by significant policy transitions in transportation and a vibrant focus on the nation's automotive and corporate landscapes, signaling a period of active development across various sectors of Ghanaian public life.

Tragedy in Ashanti Region: Infant Found Dead in Obuasi Drain and Gold Buyer Slain in Manso Adubia
news|

Tragedy in Ashanti Region: Infant Found Dead in Obuasi Drain and Gold Buyer Slain in Manso Adubia

The Ashanti Region has been gripped by a series of tragic events following the separate deaths of a seven-month-old infant in Obuasi and a gold buyer in Manso Adubia. These incidents, occurring in two of the region's prominent districts, have sparked significant concern regarding public safety and community welfare. While the nature of the two deaths differs—one involving a mysterious discovery and the other a violent robbery—both have left local residents reeling and calling for swift action from law enforcement authorities. In the Obuasi Old Estate, residents were met with a harrowing sight when the body of a seven-month-old baby was discovered in a local drain. Although the infant was reportedly found between midnight and 1:00 a.m., the news quickly spread throughout the community by dawn, around 6:30 a.m. The Assembly Member for the area, Kofi Mensah, played a pivotal role in retrieving the body and has since facilitated arrangements for the child’s burial. Currently, the circumstances surrounding how the baby ended up in the drain and the exact cause of death remain unknown, pending further investigation by the police. Simultaneously, the community of Manso Adubia is mourning the loss of a gold buyer who was fatally shot during a brazen daylight robbery. Reports indicate that an armed assailant attacked the victim, opening fire and leaving him with life-threatening injuries. Despite efforts to save him, the gold buyer later succumbed to his wounds. The identities of both the victim and the perpetrator have not yet been officially released, and the specific details of the items stolen during the heist are still being established as detectives gather evidence from the scene. These incidents highlight an urgent need for heightened security measures and community vigilance across the Ashanti Region. Authorities in both Obuasi and Manso Adubia have launched investigations to bring those responsible to justice and to provide answers to the grieving families. Local leaders are encouraging community members to come forward with any information that could assist in these cases. As the region processes these losses, the focus remains on ensuring that justice is served and that measures are put in place to prevent such tragedies from recurring.

Madina Residents Sound Alarm Over Life-Threatening Proximity to High-Voltage Power Lines at Rawlings Circle
news|

Madina Residents Sound Alarm Over Life-Threatening Proximity to High-Voltage Power Lines at Rawlings Circle

Residents and traders at Rawlings Circle in Madina are calling for urgent government intervention as high-voltage electricity lines and utility poles sit dangerously close to residential and commercial properties. A Channel One News investigation revealed a harrowing scene where multiple permanent structures have been erected perilously near electrical infrastructure, with some utility poles even passing directly through the fabric of buildings. The community now lives in constant fear of imminent electrocution and the high risk of devastating electrical fires that could sweep through the densely populated area. The hazards have prompted outcry from local stakeholders who witness the daily risks firsthand. Kofi, a shop attendant in the area, emphasized that the situation requires immediate authority intervention before a tragedy occurs. Samuel, a fibre-optic engineer, explained the technical gravity of the situation, noting that safety standards typically require a minimum distance of at least 50 meters from high-tension lines to prevent accidents. He urged for the immediate relocation of structures that violate these safety zones. While some traders expressed alarm, others remained hesitant to speak publicly, fearing that the illegality of their own building placements might lead to immediate demolition. This crisis of urban planning and safety enforcement is not isolated to Madina; similar hazards have been identified at Pokuase ACP. In response, the Ga North Municipal Assembly has signaled its intent to take decisive action. Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) Akwetey Agbo stated that the Assembly plans to collaborate with relevant technical agencies to dismantle unsafe structures and clear the rights-of-way for power lines. Beyond enforcement, the MCE stressed the importance of public education to ensure residents understand the severe risks associated with building under or near high-voltage cables and comply with existing building regulations. Despite the mounting public concern and the clear physical evidence of safety breaches, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has yet to provide an official response to inquiries regarding these installations. The silence from the national utility provider highlights a broader failure in the enforcement of building regulations and the lack of regular inspections of electrical infrastructure. Moving forward, the safety of Rawlings Circle residents depends on a coordinated effort between municipal authorities and utility regulators to prioritize human life over illegal construction and to rectify these hazardous living conditions.

Ghana National Fire Service Dismisses Claims of Unpaid 2025 Rent Allowances
news|

Ghana National Fire Service Dismisses Claims of Unpaid 2025 Rent Allowances

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has officially debunked reports circulating on social media regarding the alleged non-payment of rent allowances for the 2025 calendar year. In a formal statement released on August 21, 2026, the GNFS management characterized these claims as entirely false and unfounded, urging both personnel and the general public to disregard the misinformation. The Service clarified that the final installment of the 2025 rent allowance was fully settled and disbursed to all eligible officers by April 2026, leaving no outstanding arrears for that period. Management emphasized that the rumors appearing on various digital platforms do not reflect the reality of the Service’s financial obligations to its staff. By providing this clarification, the GNFS aims to maintain trust and prevent the spread of unnecessary anxiety among its workforce. The statement reiterated that the records of the Controller and Accountant General’s Department confirm the completion of these payments, and any claims to the contrary are intended to cause disaffection within the ranks of the emergency service. Looking forward, the GNFS has announced the establishment of a specialized committee to oversee and facilitate the payment process for the 2026 rent allowances. This proactive step is part of a broader strategy to ensure timely disbursements and to enhance communication regarding personnel benefits. The Service reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of its officers and its "open-door" policy, encouraging staff to use internal channels for grievances rather than relying on unverified social media reports. This transparent approach aligns with the current administration's focus on improving the working conditions of security and emergency personnel across the country.

Conakry Landfill Collapse Claims at Least 30 Lives Following Torrential Rains in Guinea
news|

Conakry Landfill Collapse Claims at Least 30 Lives Following Torrential Rains in Guinea

A catastrophic landfill collapse in Conakry, Guinea, has claimed the lives of at least 30 people and left several others injured after a massive mound of waste gave way during torrential rains. The disaster struck early Sunday morning in the Dar-es-salam neighborhood within the Bbessia district, where heavy downpours triggered a landslide of refuse that buried several homes. While early reports from witnesses and local officials indicated that at least 18 bodies had been recovered, the confirmed death toll has since risen as search and rescue operations intensified. Witnesses described a scene of devastation as the unstable hillside of garbage slid onto the residential area below, catching many residents off guard in their homes. In addition to the fatalities, at least six people were reported injured and have been transported to local medical facilities for treatment. Recovery operations remain active at the site, with emergency teams and volunteers working through the debris to recover further victims. The bodies recovered so far have been taken to a local morgue for identification. This tragic incident follows repeated warnings from government officials regarding the precarious nature of the landfill and the inherent dangers of residing in such close proximity to the waste site. In response to these known risks, authorities had previously initiated safety measures, including attempts to expel residents from the high-risk zone to prevent a disaster of this magnitude. Despite these prior efforts and the enforcement of some safety protocols, many families continued to live in the shadow of the landfill mound. The tragedy highlights the ongoing challenges of urban waste management and housing safety in Conakry, particularly during the rainy season when refuse sites become increasingly unstable. As recovery efforts continue, there is a growing call for more stringent enforcement of zoning laws and the permanent relocation of communities living in ecologically hazardous areas. For now, the focus remains on the immediate humanitarian response and supporting the families affected by this preventable disaster.

Rev. Wengam re-elected General Superintendent of Assemblies of God, Ghana
news|

Rev. Stephen Wengam Re-elected as Assemblies of God General Superintendent with Overwhelming Mandate

Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam has secured a second four-year term as the General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God, Ghana, following a decisive victory at the church's 32nd Biennial General Council Meeting. On August 21, 2026, delegates reaffirmed their confidence in Wengam’s leadership, granting him nearly 90% of the total votes cast. The election results signal a strong endorsement of his previous tenure and provide a clear mandate to continue his administrative and spiritual vision for one of Ghana's largest Pentecostal denominations. The polling results saw Rev. Wengam garner 3,727 votes, representing 89.61% of the electorate, while his contender, Rev. Dr. Kwame B. Bansah, received 432 votes (10.39%). Alongside the General Superintendent, the church appointed a new executive team to support the administration’s objectives for the coming term. This leadership cohort includes Rev. Dr. Kwadwo Bempah, who was elected as the Assistant General Superintendent, and Rev. Dr. Albert Anane, who takes on the role of General Secretary. In his acceptance remarks, Rev. Wengam expressed profound gratitude for the renewed trust and called for total unity across the denomination following the electoral process. He highlighted several ambitious infrastructure and spiritual goals, most notably the Centenary City Project, which is being developed to mark the church's upcoming 100th anniversary. Wengam also underscored the "MM33 agenda," a strategic focus on aggressive evangelism and church planting intended to significantly expand the denomination's reach and impact across the country. The Biennial General Council Meeting concluded with a call for prayer and collective action toward the church's future growth and stability. This leadership transition comes at a pivotal time as the Assemblies of God, Ghana, prepares to play a prominent role in the international religious landscape. The church is now looking ahead to the World Assemblies of God Congress, scheduled for October 2026, where the newly elected leadership team is expected to represent the Ghanaian constituency on the global stage.

VIDEO from Ejisu: How a suspected car thief tried to run away and ended up running over a crowd
news|

Suspected Car Snatcher Arrested in Ejisu After Crashing Into Crowd During Escape Attempt

A suspected car thief is in police custody following a dramatic and violent incident at the Ejisu traffic junction in the Ashanti Region on Saturday. The suspect allegedly snatched a taxi from its driver but saw his escape cut short when he lost control of the vehicle, crashing into a crowd and injuring several bystanders. The incident, which unfolded in broad daylight, caused significant panic among residents and commuters in the busy commercial hub. According to eyewitness accounts and reports from the scene, the suspect targeted a taxi driver within the Ejisu vicinity. After attacking the driver and forcibly seizing the vehicle, the suspect attempted a high-speed getaway. However, the flight ended abruptly when the stolen car veered off the road and plowed into a group of people nearby. The impact left several individuals injured, though the exact extent of their medical conditions has not yet been fully disclosed by authorities as they receive treatment. Footage of the incident, captured by bystanders and widely circulated on social media, shows the chaotic moments following the crash. Rather than allowing the suspect to flee on foot, a mob of residents and onlookers quickly converged on the wreckage to apprehend him. Officers from the nearby Ejisu Police Station responded swiftly to the scene, taking the suspect into custody and preventing the situation from escalating into an act of mob justice. The Ghana Police Service has launched a formal investigation into the robbery and the subsequent accident that resulted in multiple injuries. While the suspect remains in detention awaiting charges, the focus of the authorities has also turned toward the welfare of those struck by the vehicle during the botched escape. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding car snatchings in the Ashanti Region and the immediate, often volatile, response of local communities to criminal acts.