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.

NADMO Accelerates Demolition of 16 Unsafe Structures in Accra Following Deadly Avenor Building Collapse
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NADMO Accelerates Demolition of 16 Unsafe Structures in Accra Following Deadly Avenor Building Collapse

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has intensified its crackdown on structurally compromised buildings in the Greater Accra Region, confirming that three out of 16 identified unsafe structures have already been demolished. This urgent safety initiative follows a tragic building collapse in Accra’s North Industrial Area three weeks ago, which claimed three lives and left several others injured. Dennis Nartey, the Greater Accra Regional Director of NADMO, emphasized that while progress is being made, the process of removing the remaining 13 structures is complicated by ongoing evacuations, legal hurdles, and the need for rigorous technical assessments to ensure public safety during the demolition process. A primary point of concern remains an unstable building in Avenor, which stands adjacent to the site of the recent fatal collapse. Although NADMO initially planned to demolish the structure immediately after clearing debris, the action has been delayed pending final clearance from National Security. Experts have collected structural samples for integrity testing, and while the area is currently barricaded, local commercial activities have resumed nearby, raising fears of further casualties if the building fails before it can be professionally razed. Nartey noted that the case has been referred to the police as authorities navigate the legal requirements necessary to proceed with the demolition. In Tema, the demolition efforts are focusing on the Kaiser Flats, which consist of six residential blocks that have long been flagged as high-risk. NADMO is working closely with the Tema Development Company (TDC) to facilitate the relocation of occupants currently residing in these hazardous blocks. Officials have set a two-week target to complete the evacuation process, after which the blocks will be brought down. This specific operation highlights the broader challenge facing the organization: balancing the immediate need for structural safety with the logistical and humanitarian complexities of displacing residents from long-standing housing units. As the rainy season continues to pose risks to weak structures, NADMO has reiterated its commitment to clearing all 16 identified death traps across the capital. The organization is calling for stricter enforcement of building regulations and faster legal processing to allow for the preemptive removal of dangerous buildings. For now, the site in Avenor remains under security watch to prevent unauthorized access, while the public is urged to adhere to safety warnings and avoid areas marked as high-risk until all sanctioned demolitions are completed.

Floods claim 18 lives in Central Region - NADMO orders evacuation of unsafe buildings
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NADMO Issues Evacuation Orders as Floods and Landslides Claim 18 Lives Across Ghana's Central and Western Regions

At least 18 people have been confirmed dead and nearly 9,000 others displaced following a series of devastating floods and rain-related disasters across Ghana’s Central Region. The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) reports that the heavy rainfall, which intensified between June 19 and June 21, has impacted 13 metropolitan and district assemblies. Cape Coast emerged as the hardest-hit area, accounting for a significant portion of the fatalities. The disaster has left a trail of destruction, with at least 58 buildings collapsing and critical infrastructure severely damaged, forcing hundreds of families to seek temporary shelter as their homes became uninhabitable. The fatalities in the Central Region were attributed to a range of tragic incidents, including five deaths resulting from building collapses and at least one confirmed drowning. In response to the structural instability caused by the persistent rains, NADMO has issued a 14-day mandatory evacuation notice for residents living in buildings identified as unsafe. The agency warned that the integrity of many structures has been compromised, posing an immediate threat to life. Ongoing assessments are being conducted to evaluate the full extent of the damage, though officials admit that the scale of the displacement has already stretched local resources to their breaking point. Parallel to the crisis in the Central Region, the Western Region also suffered significant impact due to the inclement weather. At the Albert Bosomtwi-Sam Fishing Harbour in Sekondi, a massive landslide triggered a catastrophic fire and explosion. Continuous rains destabilized a nearby hill, causing a high-tension electricity pole to uproot and ignite a pre-mix fuel dump. The resulting blaze destroyed several vehicles and harbour facilities, requiring an intensive operation by the Ghana National Fire Service to bring the fire under control. Local authorities have since ordered an evacuation of the harbour vicinity, citing the high risk of further landslides as the ground remains saturated. NADMO has made an urgent public appeal for relief items and financial support, noting that its emergency stockpiles are critically depleted. With the Ghana Meteorological Agency forecasting additional rainfall in the coming days, disaster management officials are urging residents in flood-prone areas and low-lying terrains to relocate to higher ground immediately. The current crisis highlights a pressing need for improved urban planning and more robust disaster preparedness measures to mitigate the recurring impact of seasonal flooding on vulnerable communities across the country.

The suspects
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Ghana Police Arrest 186 in Massive Ashanti Region Crackdown on Human Trafficking and Organized Crime

The Ghana Police Service has executed a sweeping intelligence-led operation in the Ashanti Region, resulting in the arrest of 186 suspects linked to a transnational organized crime network. Conducted between June 8 and June 17, 2026, the operation was spearheaded by the Inspector-General of Police’s (IGP) Special Operations Team in collaboration with the Ashanti Regional Police Command. The crackdown specifically targeted sophisticated criminal activities, including human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and narcotics trafficking, with intensive raids focused on areas such as Asafo and Kenyase Aframa. Among those apprehended are 86 Ghanaians, 96 Nigerians, and four Togolese nationals, highlighting the cross-border nature of the criminal enterprise. A significant breakthrough in the operation was the capture of a key suspect identified as Gladys Ibrahim, popularly known as ‘Mama Gee,’ along with other foreign nationals. During the multi-day raids, police successfully rescued numerous victims, including several minors, who have since been placed under protective care to ensure their safety and well-being as the legal process unfolds. In a related judicial development, the Accra Circuit Court has remanded 43-year-old Eugenia Ifeoma, a Nigerian national, for her role in a similar trafficking scheme. Ifeoma was charged with human trafficking and illegal entry after allegedly recruiting two victims, aged 17 and 19, from Nigeria for the purposes of prostitution. The court heard evidence that she provided the victims with condoms and demanded daily payments while using threats to maintain control. Although Ifeoma pleaded guilty, she claimed ignorance of the law; she is scheduled for sentencing on June 29, 2026. The Ghana Police Service has commended the professionalism of the tactical teams involved in these high-stakes operations, emphasizing that these arrests are a critical step in dismantling broader criminal syndicates. Authorities have indicated that investigations remain active as they work to track down remaining members of the network. This intensified enforcement effort signals a robust national stance against transnational crime and a renewed commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation and modern-day slavery.

NACOC Arrests Mastermind Linked to $296 Million Methamphetamine Shipment to Australia
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NACOC Arrests Mastermind Linked to $296 Million Methamphetamine Shipment to Australia

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), in collaboration with the National Investigations Bureau (NIB), has announced the arrest of a major drug trafficking kingpin linked to a massive 320-kilogram methamphetamine shipment intercepted in Australia. The illicit cargo, valued at approximately $296 million, was discovered by Australian authorities concealed in bags of charcoal earlier this year. This breakthrough follows months of intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling a sophisticated transnational syndicate using Ghana as a transit point. Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, Director General of NACOC, described the arrest as a crucial step in disrupting organized criminal networks that threaten international security. Supporting the investigation, Australian officials revealed that the shipment was traced to a storage facility in Girraween in April 2026. The case has already seen significant developments abroad, with three individuals, including British actress Emaa Hussen, charged in Australia for their alleged involvement in unloading the narcotics. In Ghana, NACOC officials have emphasized that the investigation remains active, with the commission working alongside global law enforcement partners to identify and apprehend all remaining members of the network. Authorities have vowed that no political or social affiliations will protect those implicated in the trade. Parallel to the arrest, NACOC conducted a large-scale public exercise in Accra to destroy over 9.6 tonnes of illicit drugs, including cannabis, 46.89 kilograms of cocaine, and cannabis-infused products. The destroyed substances, valued at more than GH"37 million, were seized through various joint operations across the country. During the event, Brigadier General Mantey highlighted the broader societal impact of drug trafficking, noting that such seizures prevent addiction and the strengthening of criminal elements. He also noted recent local enforcement actions, such as the legal proceedings against five Central University students for the production of cannabis-infused goods. As NACOC marks this successful operation, the commission has reiterated its commitment to a multi-faceted approach to drug control that balances aggressive enforcement with community education and prevention. Brigadier General Mantey urged the Ghanaian public, particularly the youth, to abstain from drug use and support efforts to maintain community health. With more arrests anticipated, the commission remains focused on completely neutralizing the syndicate responsible for the Australia-bound shipment and ensuring Ghana remains a hostile environment for international drug traffickers.

Francis Addae Arrested for Human Remains Possession in Sefwi Atronsu as Religious and Conservation Debates Emerge
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Francis Addae Arrested for Human Remains Possession in Sefwi Atronsu as Religious and Conservation Debates Emerge

Police in Sefwi Atronsu have apprehended 22-year-old Francis Addae, also known as Nana Kwame, after he was discovered in possession of human skeletal remains during a police search. The suspect was found with a bag containing a human skull and a femur, initially claiming he gathered the bones while clearing land near a local cemetery. However, police investigations revealed a disturbed grave belonging to the late Nana Badu, leading to suspicions of illegal exhumation and grave tampering. Addae remains in custody as authorities continue their investigation into the incident, which has caused significant distress among local residents and the family of the deceased.\n\nIn a separate development, a controversial claim by Ghanaian preacher Fire Oja has sparked a vigorous debate across social media regarding sexual health and morality. The preacher alleged that women who sleep with multiple men risk damaging their skin tone, attributing physical changes to spiritual and lifestyle factors. While these claims have been met with skepticism and lack medical verification, they have highlighted the ongoing influence of religious figures in shaping public discourse on personal conduct and health in Ghana, prompting discussions on the need for scientific literacy in social media discussions.\n\nOn the continental front, conservationists in Uganda are intensifying efforts to protect the mountain gorilla, one of humanity's closest living relatives. With these primates sharing more than 98% of their DNA with humans, conservation groups are highlighting the critical importance of safeguarding their habitats to ensure the survival of the species. The initiative emphasizes the broader African commitment to wildlife preservation and the ecological significance of protecting endangered species that share such close genetic links to mankind.\n\nTogether, these events illustrate a week of diverse developments within the region, touching on themes of criminal justice, social morality, and environmental stewardship. While the legal proceedings against Francis Addae move forward in Sefwi Atronsu, the broader conversations surrounding health and conservation reflect a society balancing traditional beliefs with modern scientific and legal standards. Local officials and international observers alike continue to monitor these situations as they evolve.

GMet issues severe weather warning as rainstorm batters northern Ghana
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Police Arrest 19 Drivers for Traffic Violations as GMet Issues Severe Rainstorm Warning for Northern Ghana

Ghana is currently navigating a dual challenge of maintaining public order on its roads and preparing for volatile weather conditions in the north. In a significant enforcement drive, the Central East Regional Police Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) has apprehended 19 motorists for various traffic violations. Simultaneously, the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has issued an urgent weather alert, warning residents in northern sectors of impending severe rainstorms and potential flash flooding. The police operation in the Central East Region focused on curbing the rampant abuse of sirens and the use of unauthorized lighting systems, which have become a growing concern for road safety. Out of the 19 arrests, three individuals were cited specifically for siren abuse, while ten others were found using unapproved lamps. Additionally, six drivers were detained for driving on road shoulders—a practice that often exacerbates traffic congestion and poses risks to pedestrians. The MTTD emphasized that these measures are part of a broader strategy to enforce compliance with traffic regulations and reduce road accidents. In the northern parts of the country, the weather outlook remains precarious. GMet's warning covers the Upper East, North East, and Northern regions, where a moderate to heavy rainstorm is expected to bring thunderstorms and gusty winds. The agency predicted the storm would likely spread to the Savannah, Bono East, Oti, and Upper West regions later in the day. Officials have warned that flash flooding is a high risk and have advised residents to avoid low-lying areas and refrain from attempting to cross flooded paths. These developments highlight a period of heightened vigilance for both law enforcement and emergency services across Ghana. While the police continue their clampdown on traffic offenders to ensure smoother transit and public discipline, the meteorological services are urging citizens to prioritize safety during the current rainy season. Authorities in both sectors remind the public that adherence to official guidelines—whether on the road or during weather emergencies—is crucial for minimizing loss of life and property.

Ashanti Region Residents Face Violent Weekend as Fatal Crash, Police Shootout, and Destructive Fire Leave Many Displaced
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Ashanti Region Residents Face Violent Weekend as Fatal Crash, Police Shootout, and Destructive Fire Leave Many Displaced

The Ashanti Region has recorded a series of tragic incidents over the weekend, resulting in the loss of life, numerous injuries, and significant property damage across several districts. In the early hours of Sunday, June 21, 2026, a fatal road accident at Offinso Namong, near the SDA Hospital, claimed one life and left 31 others with varying degrees of injury. The collision involved a KIA Grandbird bus and a HOWO articulator truck, once again highlighting the persistent dangers on the nation’s highways. Emergency services were deployed to the scene to transport the injured for medical attention, while authorities began assessing the circumstances that led to the devastating crash. In a separate security operation, the Ashanti South Regional Police successfully apprehended a suspected fugitive car snatcher, William Opoku, also known as "Father Blessing," during a raid in Ahwiaa near Kumasi. The operation turned violent when Opoku’s accomplices, identified as Suley (alias "Shangu Spirit") and "Long Story," engaged officers in a shootout; both suspects subsequently died from injuries sustained during the exchange. Following his arrest, Opoku confessed to multiple vehicle thefts, including several Toyota Corollas, and admitted to an assault on a police officer that resulted in the theft of an AK-47 rifle. Police have since recovered one stolen vehicle and are continuing their pursuit of other members of the criminal syndicate. Adding to the region's distress, a massive fire swept through a residential area in Aboabo within the Asokore Mampong Municipality, destroying six self-contained apartments. The blaze left approximately 15 people homeless, though miraculously, all occupants managed to escape without injury. Firefighters from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) responded with two fire tenders, but the intensity of the flames had already caused extensive damage by the time they arrived. Preliminary findings suggest the fire originated in a single room before spreading rapidly to adjacent units, prompting Fire Commander ACFO II Peter Tetteh to urge residents to invest in domestic fire extinguishers to mitigate future risks. These collective events have placed a heavy burden on the region's emergency response systems and local infrastructure. As investigations continue into the cause of the Aboabo fire and the specifics of the Offinso road crash, regional authorities are calling for heightened public vigilance. The police have reaffirmed their commitment to dismantling car theft rings and recovering illegal firearms, while fire officials emphasize the need for improved safety protocols in high-density residential areas to prevent further displacements and loss of property.

Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Probes 320kg Methamphetamine Shipment to Australia
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Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission Probes 320kg Methamphetamine Shipment to Australia

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has launched a high-profile investigation into the seizure of 320 kilograms of methamphetamine concealed within a charcoal shipment exported from Ghana to Australia. This probe follows reports from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) regarding the interception, which underscores the persistent threat of transnational drug trafficking networks utilizing legitimate commercial channels to move illicit substances across continents. In response to the interception, NACOC is actively collaborating with both domestic security agencies and international partners to uncover the individuals and syndicates behind the trafficking operation. The Commission has emphasized its commitment to ensuring that Ghana’s international trade routes are not exploited by criminal organizations. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to trace the logistical chain of the charcoal shipment and identify the point of origin for the methamphetamine. This development coincides with a period of heightened vigilance and record-breaking enforcement activity in Australia. In a separate landmark operation known as "Operation Minjiang," Australian police recently executed a raid on an underground bunker in Londonderry, western Sydney, resulting in the seizure of 2.7 tonnes of cocaine. Valued at approximately A$816 million, the bust is the largest in Australia's history and led to the arrest of two men, aged 21 and 25, who now face life imprisonment. These dual incidents highlight the sophisticated concealment tactics employed by modern drug cartels, ranging from hiding substances within bulk commodities like charcoal to utilizing sophisticated underground storage facilities. For Ghana, the meth seizure serves as a critical call to strengthen port security and intelligence sharing. As NACOC and the AFP continue their respective investigations, the focus remains on dismantling the global criminal networks that facilitate these multi-million-dollar illicit trades.

Tema Metropolitan Assembly and Police Launch Investigation into Death of Unidentified Man at Assembly Premises
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Tema Metropolitan Assembly and Police Launch Investigation into Death of Unidentified Man at Assembly Premises

The Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA), in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, has launched a formal investigation following the discovery of an unidentified man’s body at the assembly’s forecourt on Wednesday, June 19. The sudden death of the individual, who was found in the early hours of the day, has prompted a swift response from local authorities as they work to uncover the circumstances leading to the tragic incident and establish the identity of the deceased. According to reports from eyewitnesses present at the scene, the deceased appeared noticeably unwell shortly before he collapsed. Bystanders observed a substance emanating from his mouth as he lost consciousness, leading to immediate calls for medical assistance. Despite the rapid arrival of emergency services, the medical team on-site confirmed that the man had already passed away. The presence of the body at such a high-profile administrative location caused a significant stir among staff and visitors alike, highlighting the urgency of the official inquiry. Following the pronouncement of death, the body was transported to a local morgue for preservation and a scheduled autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. Officials from the TMA and the police are now calling on members of the public who may have missing relatives or any information regarding the identity of the deceased to come forward. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities analyze the scene and wait for medical examinations to provide more clarity on this unfortunate event.

Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena I Assumes Leadership of Kristo Asafo Mission Amidst Public Allegations by Osebo
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Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena I Assumes Leadership of Kristo Asafo Mission Amidst Public Allegations by Osebo

Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena I, the son of the late Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka, has officially assumed the leadership of the Kristo Asafo Mission of Ghana. In his inaugural address as the new head of the mission, Akofena I emphasized the critical need for unity and collective strength among the church's members. His plea for solidarity comes at a time when the organization is navigating the transition following the death of its founder, a figure central to the mission's spiritual and industrial identity in Ghana. However, this transition into leadership has been complicated by a series of high-profile allegations from Osebo the Zaraman, a prominent Ghanaian fashion icon. In a video shared on TikTok on June 21, 2026, Osebo accused the new leader of causing significant distress to his late father, Dr. Apostle Kwadwo Safo, during his final days. The fashion personality claimed that Akofena I's actions contributed to the late apostle's troubles, suggesting a deep-seated friction within the family that was previously kept from the public eye. Beyond the allegations of past familial discord, Osebo also raised concerns regarding the safety of former Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo, who is Akofena I’s elder sister. The allegations include claims of threats directed at the former MP in the aftermath of a recent shooting incident. These serious accusations have added a layer of legal and personal controversy to the leadership succession, casting a shadow over the unified front the Kristo Asafo Mission is attempting to project. As Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena I begins his tenure, the focus remains on whether he can reconcile these internal family disputes with his public mission for church harmony. The Kristo Asafo Mission of Ghana is not only a religious body but also a significant contributor to local innovation and industry. Consequently, the resolution of these personal and leadership tensions is seen as vital for the continued stability and growth of the organization founded by the late Dr. Apostle Kwadwo Safo.

Webkid Granted GH¢100,000 Bail Following 41 Days in Custody Over Alleged Cyberbullying of Stonebwoy's Family
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Webkid Granted GH¢100,000 Bail Following 41 Days in Custody Over Alleged Cyberbullying of Stonebwoy's Family

The Accra High Court has granted bail to social media personality Webkid, ending his 41-day stint in police custody. Webkid, whose legal troubles began following allegations of cyberbullying and making derogatory remarks against the wife and family of celebrated dancehall artiste Stonebwoy, was granted bail set at GH¢100,000 on June 22, 2026. The court's decision marks a significant turn in a case that has captured the attention of both the legal community and the Ghanaian entertainment industry, highlighting the growing consequences of digital harassment. Upon his arrival at the court premises, Webkid appeared composed and confident, reportedly declaring "God is here" as he was escorted by security personnel for the hearing. The legal proceedings center on accusations that the social media influencer used his platform to target Stonebwoy's family with harmful and derogatory content. Following the deliberations, the defense team successfully argued for his release, leading to the lawyer’s formal announcement of the bail conditions and the eventual release of the defendant after more than a month in detention. The court session was marked by a notable disruption when an enthusiastic supporter, identified as a fan of musician Shatta Wale, caused a scene during the proceedings. The individual entered the High Court vicinity carrying a "Free Webkid" placard and playing loud music, ignoring multiple warnings from security officials to cease the disturbance. His actions eventually led to his forceful removal from the courtroom, during which he expressed vocal frustration at the authorities, shouting that the law would eventually catch up with them as he was escorted out by security. While the granting of bail provides temporary relief for Webkid, the case underscores the increasing judicial scrutiny surrounding cyberbullying and digital conduct in Ghana. As the legal process continues, the outcome of this case is expected to set a critical precedent for how social media interactions are regulated under Ghanaian law, particularly concerning the protection of individuals against online vitriol. The case has also sparked broader conversations about the intersection of fan culture and the legal system in the digital age.

Upper East Regional Police Arrest Four Suspects for Zebilla Double Murder
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Upper East Regional Police Arrest Four Suspects for Zebilla Double Murder

The Upper East Regional Police Command has successfully apprehended four suspects in connection with the cold-blooded murder of a middle-aged couple in the Zebilla District. The suspects were arrested during an intelligence-led raid on June 19, 2026, nine days after the violent attack that claimed the lives of 45-year-old Apam Azubilla and his 35-year-old wife, Apam Anomsigna. The arrests follow a period where the suspects had reportedly gone into hiding after the incident, which occurred on the night of June 10, 2026. Following the initial attack, the Regional Police Command launched an intensive search, culminating in the recent successful operation. Preliminary investigations suggest that the couple was targeted in their home by four armed assailants who broke into their bedroom. During the invasion, the attackers opened fire on the victims, inflicting fatal gunshot wounds. Despite the harrowing nature of the attack, Mr. Azubilla managed to make a distress call to seek assistance. Local residents and emergency responders transported the couple to a nearby health facility; however, both victims ultimately succumbed to their injuries. Forensic teams at the crime scene recovered three spent AK-47 ammunition shells, underscoring the high-powered weaponry used by the perpetrators. The successful capture of the suspects has been attributed to strategic intelligence gathering and a coordinated raid by the regional police force. Authorities have emphasized that the suspects are currently in custody and are being prepared for arraignment as the investigation continues to build a solid case for prosecution. This development marks a significant step in the police’s commitment to addressing violent crime and ensuring justice for the victims and their families in the Upper East Region. The swift action by the command highlights the increasing effectiveness of intelligence-led policing in the area. The Regional Police Command has also taken the opportunity to commend the residents of Zebilla for their cooperation and for providing vital information that led to the arrests. This partnership between the police and the community is seen as a crucial component in the broader effort to maintain peace and security across the district. As the legal proceedings commence, the case serves as a stern warning to criminal elements while offering a measure of closure to a community shaken by this brutal double homicide. Moving forward, the police have assured the public of their continued vigilance and dedication to safety.