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.

Cargo truck collision kills Okada rider at Kasoa
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Roads Minister Governs Kwame Agbodza Inspects Accra-Tema Motorway as Project Hits 50% Completion Milestone

The reconstruction and expansion of the Accra-Tema Motorway has reached a significant 50 percent completion milestone, marking a major step forward for Ghana's transportation infrastructure. During a recent site inspection, the Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, lauded the progress of the 19.5-kilometer project. Kwabena Bempong, CEO of Associated Consultant Ltd, noted that the new 10-lane dual carriageway is engineered for a 25-year lifespan and includes the replacement of aging steel bridges and the installation of 10 new footbridges. To maintain momentum and meet upcoming deadlines, Minister Agbodza has urged contractors to consider extending work hours, emphasizing the project's role in improving regional flood management and drainage. While major highway projects advance, the government is also addressing localized infrastructure challenges to combat perennial flooding. In the Ablekuma North Municipality, construction is underway for a massive new underground drainage system at Dansoman Junction, also known as Hansonic. Maintenance Engineer Kwaku Tsegah explained that the new structure, measuring two meters high and five meters wide, is designed to replace inadequate existing drains and significantly enhance stormwater flow. Similarly, the Kadjebi District Assembly has announced a long-term development initiative spanning 2025-2040 to address drainage issues that were recently exposed by a heavy three-hour downpour which flooded homes and disrupted local commerce. However, the expansion of road networks continues to be shadowed by safety concerns, as evidenced by a recent fatal accident at Budumburam near Kasoa. An "Okada" motorcycle rider lost his life and his passenger was left in critical condition after a cargo truck ran over them on the Winneba highway. Witnesses reported that the truck driver was attempting to maneuver around a parked vehicle when the collision occurred. The driver was subsequently arrested by police to assist with investigations. This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures and stricter enforcement of traffic regulations alongside the nation's physical infrastructure developments. As President John Mahama’s administration moves forward with its developmental agenda, the focus remains on delivering high-quality, durable infrastructure that meets the needs of a growing population. The ongoing work on the Accra-Tema Motorway and the strategic drainage interventions in Dansoman and Kadjebi reflect a dual priority of improving transport efficiency and urban resilience. Moving forward, the Ministry of Roads and Highways expects these projects to not only alleviate traffic congestion but also provide long-term solutions to environmental challenges that have historically plagued these communities.

Augustine Okechuku Maazi Remanded Over GCB Bank Robbery Attempt as Anani Bakar Receives Prison Sentence for Theft
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Augustine Okechuku Maazi Remanded Over GCB Bank Robbery Attempt as Anani Bakar Receives Prison Sentence for Theft

An Accra Circuit Court has remanded 49-year-old Augustine Okechuku Maazi into custody following his alleged involvement in an attempted robbery at the GCB Bank branch in Labone. Maazi, an unemployed man, faces eight charges including conspiracy to commit robbery and attempted robbery. The prosecution has linked the suspect to a sophisticated robbery syndicate operating across Accra and Tema, with further allegations that the group has conducted criminal operations across borders in Togo and C$te d'Ivoire. The court denied bail after the prosecution argued that Maazi posed a significant flight risk, particularly as he was residing in a hotel at the time of his arrest. During the proceedings, Maazi and five other accomplices pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against them. The trial judge emphasized the gravity of the allegations and the necessity of keeping the lead suspect in custody while investigations continue into the wider network. The case has been adjourned to September 2, 2026, as security agencies intensify their efforts to track down additional suspects linked to the cross-border syndicate. This high-profile case highlights the ongoing challenges of organized crime within the capital and the judiciary's commitment to rigorous pre-trial oversight. In a separate judicial matter in the Eastern Region, the Odumase-Krobo Circuit Court has sentenced 35-year-old Anani Bakar to four weeks in prison for the theft of a bundle of plantains. Bakar, an unemployed resident of Kpong Zongo, pleaded guilty to charges under Section 124(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960. The court heard that Bakar was caught in the act at a plantation in Nuaso Newtown on August 16. The theft was witnessed by a 71-year-old woman who raised an alarm, leading to Bakar's apprehension by local residents before he was handed over to the police. The plantation owner, Mr. Moses Narh Ogyam, a local driver and farmer, reported that his farm had been targeted by a series of thefts prior to this incident. Upon his arrest and subsequent interrogation, Bakar confessed to the crime, prompting the court to issue a custodial sentence intended to serve as a deterrent to others in the community. The presiding judge noted that such petty thefts significantly impact the livelihoods of local farmers and require firm judicial responses to maintain order and security in agricultural areas. These recent rulings underscore the active role of the Ghanaian judiciary in addressing a spectrum of criminal activities, from organized bank robberies to localized agricultural theft. Under the current administration of President John Mahama, there is a continued emphasis on strengthening the rule of law and ensuring that both community-level grievances and national security threats are addressed with legal precision. As the GCB Bank robbery trial moves toward its next phase in September, the swift sentencing in the Odumase-Krobo case reflects a broader effort to provide timely justice across all regions of the country.

Police gun down 3 robbery suspects over GH¢430,000 Buipe cattle market incident
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Ghana Police Intensify Crime Crackdown: Three Robbery Suspects Killed in Savannah Region Amidst High-Value Fraud and Cyber Arrests

The Ghana Police Service has intensified its enforcement operations across multiple regions, resulting in the death of three robbery suspects in a shootout and the arrest of several individuals linked to multi-million cedi fraud and provocative digital content. These operations, spanning the Savannah, Bono, and Northern regions, underscore a heightened state of vigilance by the security agencies to curb rising criminal activities and maintain public order. This surge in enforcement comes as the police look to provide a more secure environment for businesses and traditional institutions alike. In the Savannah Region, police neutralised three suspected members of a violent robbery gang following a fierce exchange of gunfire. The suspects were wanted in connection with a high-profile robbery at the Buipe Cattle Market on June 29, 2026, where they allegedly stole GH¢430,000 and attacked two Mobile Money vendors. The breakthrough followed extensive surveillance and the prior arrest of Yacouba Oumar on July 23, who provided intelligence on his accomplices. While firearms used in the robbery were recovered, a manhunt remains active for the final suspect, identified as Alhaji Yacouba. Simultaneously, the Bono Regional Police Command successfully intercepted a massive gold fraud syndicate operating in the Berekum Municipality. On August 17, 2026, intelligence-led investigations led to the arrest of 36-year-old Christian Gyamfi in Wamfie. Gyamfi is accused of defrauding a gold aggregator, Christopher Awuni, of GH¢1.1 million in exchange for 110 troy ounces of fake gold. Upon his arrest, Gyamfi reportedly admitted to the crime and named three accomplices who are currently at large. This incident has prompted the police to issue a stern warning to the public, particularly those in the mining and trading sectors, to exercise extreme caution during high-value gold transactions. Further north, the Northern Regional Police Command arrested 27-year-old Abdulai Mohammed Saani for his involvement in the creation of a provocative TikTok video. The video, which surfaced following the death of Mion Lana, Mahamaru Abdulai, was deemed a threat to public peace and sensitivity. Saani was apprehended in Kumbungu on August 20, 2026, after an investigation by the Regional Police Intelligence and Criminal Investigations Departments. As the police continue to investigate the context of the video and identify potential collaborators, the public is reminded of the legal consequences of using social media to incite unrest or disrespect traditional institutions. These collective actions by the Ghana Police Service demonstrate a commitment to tackling both physical and digital threats to national security.

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Eight Fatalities Confirmed After Civilian-Contracted Aircraft Crashes Near Remote Alaskan Military Radar Site

A tragic aviation accident at a remote U.S. Air Force site in Alaska has resulted in the deaths of all eight individuals on board, including two pilots and six passengers. The civilian-contracted aircraft crashed near Cape Newenham shortly after midday on Thursday, with rescuers later confirming there were no survivors at the scene. The U.S. Air Force Alaskan Command has described the victims as dedicated professionals who were engaged in a vital mission at the time of the incident. The ill-fated flight originated from Anchorage International Airport and was en route to the Cape Newenham Long Range Radar Site. This facility is a critical component of the Alaska Radar System, which is responsible for monitoring air traffic and maintaining security across the state's vast airspace. Due to the remote nature of the destination, recovery efforts required a swift and specialized response from search teams to reach the crash site and secure the area. Lt. Gen. Robert Davis, commander of the U.S. Air Force Alaskan Command, expressed deep condolences to the families affected by the tragedy. He emphasized the profound loss felt across the military and contracting communities, noting the commitment and professionalism of those on board. Davis also praised the dedication of the recovery teams who operated in the challenging Alaskan terrain to assist in the aftermath of the crash. An official investigation into the cause of the crash is currently underway, led by military and aviation authorities. While the recovery of the victims has been completed, their identities are being withheld from the public until all next of kin have been properly notified. The incident highlights the inherent risks involved in maintaining and operating critical surveillance infrastructure in some of the most isolated and geographically demanding regions of the United States.

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GRIDCo Attributes Second Nationwide Power Outage in Three Weeks to Major Akosombo–Volta Line Fault

The Ghana Grid Company Ltd. (GRIDCo) has reported a significant nationwide power outage that occurred in the early hours of Thursday, August 20, 2026. This incident, which struck at approximately 4:30 a.m., was triggered by a major disturbance in the National Interconnected Transmission System (NITS). The disruption has left large swathes of the country without electricity, marking the second time in just three weeks that Ghana has faced a total grid collapse. According to statements from GRIDCo’s Corporate Communications Directorate, the root cause of the blackout was identified as a major fault on the Akosombo–Volta transmission line. This technical failure necessitated an immediate and automatic shutdown of several generating units at the Akosombo hydroelectric station, as well as various thermal power plants. These automated safety measures are designed to protect the national grid from catastrophic damage during severe system instabilities. In response to the outage, GRIDCo engineers were promptly dispatched to the affected sites to troubleshoot the fault and initiate recovery protocols. As of the latest update, the company confirmed that power has been successfully restored to several communities, though many regions remain in the dark. GRIDCo has issued an apology to the public for the inconvenience caused by the outage and assured citizens that its technical teams are working diligently to reestablish full supply across the entire country. The recurrence of a nationwide blackout within a three-week window has raised concerns regarding the stability of Ghana's energy infrastructure. While GRIDCo focuses on the immediate technical resolution of the Akosombo–Volta line fault, the frequency of these incidents suggests a need for deeper scrutiny of the transmission system's resilience. For now, the priority remains the phased reconnection of the national grid to minimize further economic and social disruption.

UK Deputy High Commissioner Emphasizes Ethical Journalism as Foundation for Democracy at GJA 77th Anniversary
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UK Deputy High Commissioner Emphasizes Ethical Journalism as Foundation for Democracy at GJA 77th Anniversary

Chris Halliday, the Deputy British High Commissioner to Ghana, has underscored the critical role of ethical journalism in sustaining a robust and resilient democracy. Speaking at the 77th Anniversary Symposium of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in Accra, Halliday emphasized that the media's commitment to accuracy and integrity serves as the bedrock of democratic governance, especially in an era defined by rapid technological shifts and the proliferation of misinformation. Addressing the evolving media landscape, the Deputy High Commissioner warned that the manipulation of information often poses a more significant threat to democratic stability than direct censorship. He noted that while technological advancements offer new avenues for communication, they also present challenges that demand a higher standard of journalistic ethics. Halliday urged practitioners to safeguard the public's right to truthful information, asserting that a free and independent press is non-negotiable for any society seeking to maintain transparency and accountability. Beyond the theoretical importance of media freedom, the symposium highlighted the practical necessity for journalists to continuously upgrade their professional skills. Halliday called on members of the GJA to adapt to the changing digital environment to remain effective gatekeepers of information. He further reiterated the United Kingdom’s ongoing commitment to supporting press freedom in Ghana, viewing it as a vital partnership aimed at strengthening the country’s democratic institutions against the rising tide of disinformation. The GJA’s 77th-anniversary milestone serves as a reflective period for the Ghanaian media fraternity to evaluate its impact on national development. As Ghana continues to navigate complex political and social terrains, the call for ethical steadfastness remains paramount. The discussions at the symposium suggest that the future of Ghana's democracy is intrinsically linked to the ability of its journalists to balance speed with accuracy and innovation with traditional ethical principles.

Man, 20, drowns while helping travellers cross Ghana-Togo border river
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Search Intensifies for 20-Year-Old Man Drowned While Assisting Travellers Across Ghana-Togo Border River

A tragic incident has occurred in the Upper East Region where a 20-year-old man, Kombat Yaw Yiremiah, drowned while assisting travellers in crossing a river that separates Ghana and Togo. The event, which took place on August 16, 2026, has left the local community in a state of mourning and distress. Yiremiah was reportedly acting as a guide and helper for individuals navigating the waterway when he was swept away, highlighting the perilous conditions often faced at informal border crossing points between the two West African nations. Following the disappearance, a joint search operation was launched involving the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and dedicated local community members. Despite these ongoing efforts, the young man's body has yet to be recovered. The search teams have been working tirelessly under difficult conditions, prompting community leaders to issue urgent appeals for professional aquatic support and specialized diving equipment to bolster the recovery mission. The lack of immediate technical resources in the remote border area has complicated the search process significantly. In tandem with the physical search, the community has also engaged in traditional consultations and customary rites, a practice frequently employed in rural Ghanaian settings during such tragedies to seek spiritual guidance in locating the missing. This multifaceted approach reflects the cultural significance of proper recovery and burial rites in the region. Local residents have described Yiremiah as a helpful individual, and his loss is deeply felt by both his family and the travellers he sought to assist. This drowning incident underscores the critical need for improved infrastructure and safer transit routes in border communities. While the government under President John Mahama continues to address national development priorities, this tragedy brings into focus the vulnerabilities of citizens living in remote areas who rely on informal crossings for trade and movement. As the search efforts enter their next phase, the focus remains on bringing closure to the grieving family and evaluating measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Egypt National Coach Hossam Hassan Collapses Amidst Family Dispute as Global Reports of Targeted Violence Rise
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Egypt National Coach Hossam Hassan Collapses Amidst Family Dispute as Global Reports of Targeted Violence Rise

The Egyptian sports community and international observers were recently shaken by reports concerning Egypt national team coach Hossam Hassan, who reportedly collapsed following a domestic confrontation. The incident occurred at a hotel in Porto Marina on Egypt’s North Coast, where a physical brawl broke out between Hassan’s two wives, Howaida El-Gharbawy and Dina Mostafa. The heated argument reportedly escalated until the coach suffered a physical collapse, prompting immediate concerns for his health and the potential impact on his leadership of the national team. Beyond the sports world, separate incidents of physical violence have sparked outcry in both the United Kingdom and Ghana. In North London, a Muslim woman wearing a hijab was attacked near a bus stop in Edmonton. Video footage revealed a man punching the woman in an unprovoked assault until a bystander intervened. While the suspect was detained by police, the attack has fueled anxieties regarding a surge in anti-Muslim sentiment and the safety of women in public spaces. Meanwhile, in Kumasi’s commercial hub of Adum, a young man was subjected to a mob assault after allegedly being caught stealing from a local shop. Footage of the encounter showed a group of men dragging the suspect before he eventually escaped, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding the prevalence of "instant justice" and the role of local security. Complementing these reports of physical altercations are accounts of emotional and financial exploitation within personal relationships. A 45-year-old individual recently shared a harrowing account of a year-long online relationship that culminated in a significant financial scam, illustrating the persistent dangers of digital dating and social engineering. Collectively, these events highlight a troubling landscape of domestic volatility, hate-motivated crimes, and criminal exploitation. As public discussions continue, there is a heightened call for improved security measures, communal tolerance, and the prioritization of formal legal channels over physical confrontation.

COMAC Uncovers Hazardous Safety Violations at Fuel Retail Outlets Across Northern Ghana
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COMAC Uncovers Hazardous Safety Violations at Fuel Retail Outlets Across Northern Ghana

The Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) has sounded a stern warning regarding persistent safety standard violations at fuel retail outlets in northern Ghana. Following a recent mystery shopping exercise conducted across the region, the organization revealed a shocking level of non-compliance among both motorists and station attendants. Dr. Riverson Oppong, the Chief Executive Officer of COMAC, expressed deep concern over the flagrant disregard for basic safety protocols, which poses significant risks of fire outbreaks and environmental hazards in these operational areas. During the assessment, COMAC investigators documented several alarming practices that have become commonplace at these stations. Key among the violations was the practice of motorists refueling their motorcycles while still mounted, a high-risk behavior that can lead to catastrophic accidents if fuel spills onto a hot engine. The exercise also uncovered the widespread use of inappropriate containers, such as plastic bottles, for transporting fuel. In one particularly harrowing instance, a father and his young son were observed refueling a motorcycle in an entirely unsafe manner, illustrating a lack of public awareness regarding the volatility of petroleum products. Beyond consumer behavior, the mystery shopping exercise also scrutinized the technical and operational standards of the fuel stations themselves. The COMAC compliance and operations team evaluated the functionality of Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG) systems, which are critical for monitoring fuel levels and detecting leaks. The findings suggested that many outlets are facing ongoing challenges with these systems, potentially compromising the accuracy of inventory management and the early detection of underground environmental threats. In response to these findings, COMAC has announced plans to compile a comprehensive report detailing the observed lapses. This document will be shared with the Chamber's member companies and the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) to facilitate a coordinated effort to enforce stricter safety measures. By collaborating with the industry regulator, COMAC aims to implement enhanced training for station staff and launch public education campaigns to ensure that safety remains the paramount priority at fuel retail points across the northern regions.

Rev. Felix Hinson (left), the Resident Pastor of the International Gospel Church, Exalted Temple, giving words of exhortation during the ceremony. Picture: ESTHER ADJORKOR ADJEI
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NADMO Honors Late Deputy Director Samuel Aboagye as Funeral Rites for Mrs. Evelyn Naa-Otua Addo are Announced

Ghana has entered a period of solemn reflection as the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and the family of Pastor Mensa Otabil announce significant memorial and funeral rites. In Accra, NADMO officials and staff gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of the late Deputy Director-General, Samuel Aboagye, following a tragic helicopter accident that claimed his life and those of seven others. Simultaneously, details have been released for the final farewell to Mrs. Evelyn Naa-Otua Addo, the mother-in-law of the founder of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC), Pastor Mensa Otabil, marking a significant moment of mourning for both the national disaster management body and the Christian community. The memorial service for Mr. Aboagye was a poignant event attended by family members, colleagues, and friends who gathered to honor his dedicated service to the nation. Major (Rtd) Dr. Joseph Bikanyi Kuyon, the Director-General of NADMO, delivered a moving tribute, reflecting on the profound impact of the tragedy. Dr. Kuyon emphasized that the gathering was intended not to prolong the grief of the disaster but to celebrate the enduring legacy and contributions Mr. Aboagye made to NADMO and Ghana. The spiritual tone of the service was guided by Rev. Felix Hinson of the International Central Gospel Church, who urged attendees to cherish the values of life and the positive influence they leave behind for future generations. In a related development concerning the ICGC community, the family of Mrs. Evelyn Naa-Otua Addo has officially announced the arrangements for her burial and thanksgiving services. Mrs. Addo, who passed away on June 28, 2026, was a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother. Her burial service is scheduled for Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at the ICGC Christ Temple East in Teshie, Accra. Following the service, the family will proceed with a private interment. A Thanksgiving service is also scheduled for Sunday, August 23, at 10:00 a.m. at the same location, where mourners have been requested to wear white to celebrate her life and memory. These events highlight the shared values of service, faith, and community that define Ghanaian public and private life. Whether through the professional commitment shown by Samuel Aboagye at NADMO or the matriarchal influence of Mrs. Evelyn Naa-Otua Addo, the tributes reflect a nation that pauses to honor those who have contributed significantly to its social and spiritual fabric. As the country supports the bereaved families through these final rites, the calls from religious leaders to create lasting legacies serve as a reminder of the impact individual lives have on the collective consciousness of the nation.

Ghana Police Investigate Separate Cases of Infant Abandonment in Kasoa and Ada After Successful Rescues
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Ghana Police Investigate Separate Cases of Infant Abandonment in Kasoa and Ada After Successful Rescues

Authorities in the Central and Greater Accra regions are investigating two separate cases of infant abandonment after two babies were rescued by members of the public within recent days. In Kasoa, a newborn was discovered discarded in a public toilet, while in the Ada area, a three-month-old girl was found in a bush. Both infants are currently receiving medical attention at regional facilities as police work to track down their parents or guardians and determine the circumstances surrounding their abandonment. At the Kasoa Main Lorry Station, a woman using a public toilet facility made a harrowing discovery when she found a newborn baby wrapped in tissue inside a dustbin. Her immediate alarm drew the attention of commercial drivers and other bystanders at the busy station. Together, they retrieved the infant and rushed her to the Kasoa Polyclinic for emergency medical care. Local witnesses credited the swift response of the "Good Samaritan" and the transport workers for ensuring the baby’s survival following the abandonment. In a similar incident in Ada, a 20-year-old farmer named Julius Tottimeh discovered a three-month-old baby girl abandoned in a bush near a local checkpoint on August 17, 2026. Tottimeh was on his way to his farm when he heard the child's cries coming from beneath a tree. Upon investigation, he found the infant wrapped in cloth. He immediately transported the baby to the Ada East District Hospital for a thorough medical examination and subsequently reported the matter to the local police to initiate a formal search for the child's family. These incidents have sparked significant concern regarding the welfare of vulnerable children and the social pressures leading to such desperate acts. The Ghana Police Service has confirmed that investigations are active in both Kasoa and Ada, with officers appealing to the public for any information that could lead to the identification of the individuals responsible. While both babies are reported to be in stable condition, these cases highlight the urgent need for enhanced social support systems and community vigilance to protect at-risk infants.

Oswal Investments Commits to Dodowa Road Completion as Ga West Supports PWDs and Bolgatanga Faces Road Crisis
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Oswal Investments Commits to Dodowa Road Completion as Ga West Supports PWDs and Bolgatanga Faces Road Crisis

Infrastructure development and social interventions are taking center stage across Ghana as construction on the Dodowa-Afienya-Dawhenya road reaches a critical milestone and the Ga West Municipal Assembly provides essential tools to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). However, these advancements contrast sharply with a burgeoning transportation crisis in the Bolgatanga Municipality, where residents of Sumbrungu, Saponbisi, and Nyariga are pleading for emergency intervention following the total collapse of a vital road link. These developments highlight the dual challenge of maintaining existing infrastructure while expanding social safety nets and completing major capital projects under the current administration. In the Greater Accra Region, Oswal Investments Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to finishing the 20.8-kilometre Dodowa-Afienya-Dawhenya road by December 2026. Group Chairman Humphrey Awuletey-Williams reported that the project is currently 62% complete, featuring a single-carriageway with walkways and a strategic 4-kilometre dual carriageway at major junctions. During a recent inspection, the Roads and Highways Minister was assured that the contractor would meet the year-end deadline, with the chairman urging authorities to prepare for commissioning by the close of 2026 to facilitate smoother regional travel and economic activity. Simultaneously, the Ga West Municipal Assembly (GWMA) has distributed working tools and financial aid to 67 Persons with Disabilities as part of the District Assemblies Common Fund allocation. Municipal Chief Executive John Desmond Sowah Nai presented items including deep freezers, sewing machines, laptops, and various trade commodities to enhance the livelihoods of the beneficiaries. Member of Parliament Sedem Kweku Afenyo emphasized that these tools are intended for economic empowerment, strictly warning recipients against selling the items and calling for the community to support the entrepreneurial efforts of the PWDs. Conversely, the situation in the Bolgatanga Municipality remains dire as torrential rains have led to the complete collapse of a critical road serving Sumbrungu, Saponbisi, and Nyariga. This destruction has cut off access to the municipal capital, leaving farmers, traders, and expectant mothers stranded and unable to reach essential healthcare services. Local Assembly Member Dr. Elias Apasiya noted that while residents have repeatedly requested a simple culvert to restore passage, the Municipal Assembly has cited budgetary constraints as the reason for inaction. The affected communities are now urgently calling on the central government to intervene and restore safe passage to prevent further economic and health-related hardships.