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.

Nabdam: Police arrest 14 for cultivating and distributing 'wee' at at Daliga
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Upper East Regional Police Command Arrests 14 for Narcotic Cultivation and Distribution in Nabdam District

The Upper East Regional Police Command has successfully apprehended 14 individuals suspected of being major players in the cultivation and distribution of narcotic plants in Daliga, located within the Nabdam District. The arrests, which took place on August 16, 2026, were the result of a meticulously planned intelligence-led operation aimed at disrupting the supply chain of illegal substances in the region. This crackdown highlights the ongoing efforts of the security services to curb the spread of narcotics and maintain public safety under the current administration. The operation was spearheaded by the Police Intelligence Directorate in collaboration with the specialized Black Cobra Team. During the raid, officers discovered a substantial quantity of suspected Indian hemp, commonly referred to as 'wee.' In a sophisticated attempt to evade detection, the suspects had concealed the illicit drugs within sacks of staple food items, specifically millet and maize. This method of concealment underscores the deceptive tactics used by distributors to transport illicit products across the region while attempting to bypass routine security checks. According to reports from the Ghana Police Service, the 14 suspects are believed to be primary suppliers for local drug peddlers throughout the Nabdam District and its surrounding areas. By targeting both the cultivation sites and the major distribution nodes, the police intend to significantly reduce the availability of narcotics on the streets. The arrest of such a large group is viewed as a significant blow to the narcotics trade in the Upper East Region, which has seen increased surveillance by security agencies in recent months. All 14 individuals are currently being held in police custody as investigations continue. They are expected to be arraigned before a court to face formal charges related to the illegal cultivation, possession, and distribution of narcotic substances. The police have reiterated their commitment to using intelligence-driven strategies to purge communities of criminal activities and have urged the public to continue providing timely information to assist in maintaining law and order.

Ghana National Fire Service Rescues Six Following Road Crashes in Akuapem South and Suhum
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Ghana National Fire Service Rescues Six Following Road Crashes in Akuapem South and Suhum

The Eastern Region has recorded multiple road traffic accidents resulting in several injuries and significant property damage, prompting the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) to issue fresh warnings about road safety. In two major incidents occurring between August 2025 and August 2026, emergency responders were called to the Akuapem South Municipality and the Accra–Kumasi Highway to manage crash sites and rescue trapped victims. These incidents underscore the ongoing challenges of highway safety as the administration of President John Mahama works to enhance emergency response systems across the country. On Friday, August 14, 2025, a serious collision at the Ahwerase Christland School Junction in the Akuapem South Municipality left five people injured. The crash involved a Toyota Altis and a Ford Ranger Crew Cab and occurred at approximately 8:38 PM. Firefighters from the Aburi Fire Station arrived on the scene promptly, concluding their rescue and clearing operations within an hour. The impact was severe enough to cause extensive damage to both vehicles and a nearby electrical shop, though the precise cause of the accident remains under official investigation. In a separate incident on August 16, 2026, emergency crews from the Suhum Municipal Fire Station successfully rescued a man trapped inside a Kia Rio on the Accra–Kumasi Highway near Suhum Niifio. The accident was triggered by a Ford F-150 which struck the rear of the Kia while attempting a wrongful overtaking maneuver. While the victim was hospitalized and no fatalities were reported, the GNFS used the occasion to remind motorists of the dangers of reckless driving. Personal items, including cash and identification cards, were recovered at the scene and secured by authorities. The Ghana National Fire Service continues to emphasize that adherence to traffic regulations, especially regarding overtaking and speed, is the most effective way to prevent such accidents. As the government continues to monitor road safety trends, officials are urging drivers to remain vigilant to ensure the protection of all road users.

British Newlyweds Alexander Cromie and Marie Ebert Killed in Sifnos Helicopter Crash During Honeymoon
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British Newlyweds Alexander Cromie and Marie Ebert Killed in Sifnos Helicopter Crash During Honeymoon

A tragic helicopter crash on the Greek island of Sifnos has claimed the lives of a young British couple, Alexander Cromie and Marie Ebert, who were celebrating their honeymoon. The incident, which occurred as the private aircraft attempted to land, also resulted in the death of the pilot. The couple had departed from Markopoulo, near Athens, for what was intended to be a romantic getaway before the Bell 206 helicopter went down just meters from its designated landing pad. Eyewitnesses at the scene reported hearing unusual engine noises shortly before the aircraft crashed. Following the impact, a blaze erupted, necessitating an immediate response from local firefighters who worked through the evening to extinguish the flames. Local officials on Sifnos described a devastating scene, noting that very little remained of the helicopter after the crash and subsequent fire. The Greek aviation safety authority has launched a full investigation to determine the exact cause of the mechanical failure or pilot error that led to the disaster. Both Alexander Cromie and Marie Ebert were highly regarded professionals in the corporate world. Mr. Cromie was an employee at the global investment firm Blackstone, while Ms. Ebert served as a senior specialist at the management consultancy Bain & Company. In the wake of the tragedy, both companies have issued statements expressing their profound condolences and shock. Their families are currently receiving support as they navigate this difficult period, and the local community in Sifnos has expressed deep grief over the loss occurring on their shores. As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to examine the maintenance records of the Bell 206 and analyze any communication between the pilot and ground control. The tragedy has highlighted the risks associated with private air travel in the region during the peak tourism season. While the specific timeline of the investigation remains unclear, the focus remains on providing answers to the grieving families and ensuring such a catastrophic failure does not recur.

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Russian Drone Strikes Kill Two in Zaporizhzhya and Injure Nine in Odessa Amid Escalating Attacks on Civilian Targets

In a sharp escalation of hostilities, Russian drone attacks targeting civilian infrastructure across Ukraine have resulted in multiple casualties. On August 17, local authorities confirmed that a man and a woman were killed in Zaporizhzhya following a direct strike on an allotment garden. Meanwhile, in the port city of Odessa, at least nine people were left injured after waves of drones struck residential areas, including restaurants and private homes. These latest strikes come as the full-scale conflict approaches its four-and-a-half-year mark, with Ukrainian officials reporting an increasingly deliberate focus on non-military targets. In the Zaporizhzhya region, the impact of the drone strikes extended beyond the tragic loss of life. According to local officials, the attacks targeted essential infrastructure, resulting in significant power outages that left many residents without electricity. The deaths of the two civilians in a garden area highlight the indiscriminate nature of the recent barrages. Emergency services were deployed immediately to the scene to mitigate the damage and restore power, but the psychological toll on the community remains high as drone incursions become a frequent threat in the eastern territory. Simultaneously, the city of Odessa faced a harrowing night as Russian drones penetrated civilian zones. The regional administration reported that the nine injured individuals were caught in strikes that damaged several restaurants and residential buildings. Officials condemned the ongoing terror against civilians, pointing out that the locations targeted had no military significance. This pattern of attacking social hubs and domestic properties has drawn renewed international criticism, as the humanitarian situation in the southern port city grows more precarious with each successive wave of aerial assaults. As the invasion continues into its fifth year, the Ukrainian government and regional leaders are sounding the alarm over the increasing frequency of strikes on non-combatants. The transition from front-line military engagements to the bombardment of civilian energy grids and residential quarters is seen by analysts as an attempt to weaken national resolve. With the war showing no signs of de-escalation, local authorities in both Zaporizhzhya and Odessa are urging citizens to remain vigilant and strictly follow air raid protocols as they brace for further potential strikes on urban centers.

Police urge public to disregard flyer on use of AirPods and earphones while driving 
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Ghana Police Service Discredits Viral Flyer Falsely Claiming Ban on AirPods While Driving

The Ghana Police Service (GPS) has officially debunked a viral flyer circulating on social media which falsely alleged that the use of AirPods, earphones, and other audio devices while driving is prohibited under Ghanaian law. In a public statement issued to clarify the situation, the police administration confirmed that the information contained in the flyer is misleading and does not represent an official directive or policy from the service. The denial comes as a response to widespread public concern and confusion regarding the legality of wearing personal audio devices behind the wheel. To address the spread of this misinformation, the Police have tasked their Cybercrime Unit with investigating the origins of the unauthorized flyer. Officials emphasized that the document was neither authored nor sanctioned by the Ghana Police Service. This proactive step aims to identify and hold accountable those responsible for creating and disseminating deceptive graphics that mimic official police communication. The service has reiterated that the public should disregard the specific claims made in the viral post and instead look to verified platforms for any legitimate changes to traffic enforcement policies. While the specific ban mentioned in the flyer is non-existent, the Ghana Police Service used the opportunity to remind motorists and riders of the existing Road Traffic Regulations, specifically L.I. 2519. The police highlighted that while audio devices themselves may not be explicitly banned in the manner described by the flyer, any activity that causes distraction while operating a vehicle remains a significant safety hazard. Drivers are strongly encouraged to maintain full focus on the road to minimize the risk of accidents, as distractions remain a leading cause of traffic-related incidents across the country. In conclusion, the GPS has urged the general public to rely exclusively on official communication channels, such as the service's verified social media pages and formal press releases, to obtain accurate information on road safety and law enforcement. By encouraging citizens to verify information before sharing it online, the police hope to curb the spread of "fake news" that can lead to unnecessary panic or confusion. Motorists are reminded that adhering to established traffic laws is essential for collective road safety, and any legitimate updates to these regulations will always be communicated through the appropriate national authorities.

Tragedy Hits Accra Airport as Ghanaian Evacuee Dies Following Return from South Africa
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Tragedy Hits Accra Airport as Ghanaian Evacuee Dies Following Return from South Africa

A somber atmosphere enveloped the Kotoka International Airport following the death of a Ghanaian citizen moments after touching down from South Africa on August 14, 2026. The deceased was part of a cohort of 50 evacuees returning to the country via an Air Tanzania flight. Reports indicate that the individual’s health took a critical turn approximately 30 minutes before landing. Despite the rapid response of medical teams upon the aircraft's arrival at the tarmac, he was pronounced dead at 6:55 pm. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed the incident and is currently in the process of reaching out to the bereaved family to provide support and formal notification. This tragic event in Accra coincides with reports of a violent incident in the United States, where a shooting at Virginia State University (VSU) has left five people injured. The shooting occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning outside campus residence halls. Local law enforcement officials have confirmed that while four individuals sustained non-life-threatening injuries, one victim remains in critical condition. While the campus was briefly placed under lockdown, authorities have since lifted the restriction, though a heavy police presence remains. Investigators are currently reviewing surveillance footage to identify multiple suspects believed to be involved in the attack, emphasizing that the victims themselves are not considered suspects as classes prepare to resume. On the international weather front, the state of Hawaii is currently grappling with the destructive force of Hurricane Lala. The Category 1 storm, packing sustained winds of 80 mph, has hit the Big Island particularly hard, bringing life-threatening conditions including a projected 25 inches of rainfall and a three-foot storm surge. Governor Josh Green has issued an urgent safety plea to residents as widespread flight cancellations disrupt travel across the islands. The storm has already claimed one life in a weather-related car accident. Although Lala is expected to weaken into a tropical storm by Sunday, emergency services remain on high alert across Maui, Oahu, and Kauai as they brace for further impact. These disparate incidents highlight a period of significant challenge both domestically and for the Ghanaian diaspora abroad. The government under President John Mahama continues to monitor the situation of citizens returning from abroad, ensuring that evacuation protocols prioritize the health and safety of all returnees. As the Ministry of Foreign Affairs manages the aftermath of the airport tragedy, Ghanaian officials are also keeping a close eye on international safety developments that may affect citizens traveling or residing in high-risk zones, whether due to extreme weather in the Pacific or security volatility in North America.

Kasoa Trader Summoned to Court After Allegedly Biting Municipal Taskforce Official During Pavement Decongestion
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Kasoa Trader Summoned to Court After Allegedly Biting Municipal Taskforce Official During Pavement Decongestion

A routine enforcement exercise in the Kasoa Central Business District turned physical when a trader allegedly bit a member of the Awutu Senya East Municipal Assembly (ASEMA) taskforce. The incident occurred during an ongoing decongestion drive aimed at removing unauthorized structures and clearing traders from the pavements. The exercise is part of a broader effort by the municipal assembly to restore order to the busy commercial area, which often suffers from severe pedestrian and vehicular congestion due to the spillover of trading activities onto public walkways.\n\nThe confrontation reportedly broke out as the taskforce attempted to enforce the assembly’s bylaws regarding street hawking and the placement of temporary stalls. In the heat of the operation, the trader allegedly resorted to physical violence, inflicting a bite wound on the taskforce official who was on duty. While the extent of the official's injuries has not been fully detailed, the act has been condemned as a significant escalation of the resistance often faced by municipal workers performing their duties in Kasoa.\n\nIn the immediate aftermath of the assault, the trader was apprehended and has since been issued a court summons to answer for the incident. Authorities have indicated that the legal action serves as a deterrent to others who might consider obstructing or attacking public officials during the discharge of their lawful mandates. The Awutu Senya East Municipal Assembly has maintained that while it understands the economic pressures on traders, the safety and accessibility of public infrastructure must be prioritized to prevent chaos in the heart of Kasoa.\n\nThis incident underscores the persistent challenges facing urban management in Ghana's rapidly growing municipalities. Under the current administration of President John Mahama, there is a continued focus on improving urban infrastructure and ensuring that municipal assemblies effectively manage public spaces. As this case moves to the court, it remains a focal point for discussions on the balance between informal economic activities and the enforcement of city planning regulations intended to benefit the wider public.

new town
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Firefighters Contain Accra New Town Apartment Blaze Sparked by Charging Power Bank

Personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) were deployed to Accra New Town on Sunday to battle a fire that broke out at a residential apartment complex. The fire originated on the first floor of a four-storey building, sending thick plumes of smoke into the air and drawing a large crowd of concerned onlookers. Despite the potential for a major disaster in the densely populated area, emergency responders acted swiftly to manage the situation, and no injuries or casualties have been reported thus far. Firefighters faced significant operational challenges upon arrival, primarily due to difficulties in accessing the affected floor. To navigate these obstacles, GNFS personnel utilized ladders to reach the building's exterior and enhance their firefighting efforts from a better vantage point. This tactical adjustment allowed the team to combat the blaze more effectively while managing the heavy smoke that initially hindered their entry. The coordinated response prevented the flames from spreading to higher floors or adjacent properties in the neighborhood. Preliminary reports regarding the cause of the incident suggest that the fire was ignited by an overheated power bank that had been left charging. This finding highlights the growing concern over electrical fires caused by unattended electronic devices. As the GNFS completes its cooling-down operations and conducts a final assessment of the damage, the incident serves as a stark reminder to the public about the importance of fire safety and the risks associated with leaving electronic gadgets plugged in for extended periods. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as the formal investigation concludes.

Ghana Police and Prisons Service Respond to Death of Awutu Odupong Chief and Manhunt for Escaped Inmate Peter Kyeremeh
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Ghana Police and Prisons Service Respond to Death of Awutu Odupong Chief and Manhunt for Escaped Inmate Peter Kyeremeh

The Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Prisons Service have been placed on high alert following a series of high-profile criminal developments, including the mysterious death of a traditional ruler and the escape of a convict from lawful custody. In the Awutu Odupong Traditional Area, the death of the overlord, Nai Awoshie Tetteh, has sparked a major investigation after his remains were allegedly concealed. Meanwhile, prison authorities have launched a nationwide manhunt for Peter Kyeremeh, a 29-year-old inmate who successfully fled from confinement while serving a five-year sentence for theft and unlawful entry. The investigation into the death of Nai Awoshie Tetteh has already resulted in the apprehension of two suspects, Daniel Awer and Chris Banahene. According to the Homicide Unit of the Ghana Police Service, the arrests were made in connection with the alleged concealment of the chief's body, which was only discovered following specialized police intervention. The circumstances surrounding the traditional ruler's passing remain under close scrutiny, as his significant role within the community has heightened public interest and demands for transparency regarding the cause of death and the motives behind the attempt to hide his remains. Simultaneously, the Ghana Prisons Service is appealing to the general public for assistance in recapturing Peter Kyeremeh. Described as fair in complexion and slim in stature, Kyeremeh was serving time for his involvement in unlawful entry and stealing before his escape. Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any sightings of the individual to the nearest police station or to contact the Prisons Service directly via their emergency hotline. The escape has raised questions regarding security protocols at correctional facilities, particularly concerning inmates serving multi-year sentences. In a separate incident highlighting concerns over vigilante justice and community-led punishment, a disturbing video has gone viral on social media platforms, showing the public flogging of a young man. The footage, which surfaced on August 16, 2026, depicts local residents and an unidentified man assaulting the individual for allegedly engaging in an affair with a married woman. The victim was seen being tied to a pillar with a rope, an act that has drawn sharp criticism from netizens and human rights advocates who are calling for legal action against the perpetrators of the assault. These collective incidents underscore a busy period for Ghanaian law enforcement as they navigate complex traditional issues, custodial security, and the rise of social-media-documented vigilantism. As the Homicide Unit continues its probe into the Awutu Odupong case and the search for Kyeremeh intensifies, officials are stressing the importance of the rule of law. They have cautioned the public against taking the law into their own hands, emphasizing that both the concealment of a body and the administration of unauthorized physical punishment are serious offenses that will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

EPA A crumpled red bus sits at the bottom of a ravine as firefighters attend.
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National Fire Service Rescues Driver on Kintampo-Tamale Highway as Experts Debate New Traffic Rules

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) successfully executed a critical rescue operation on Wednesday, August 14, 2026, following a severe accident on the Kintampo-Tamale Highway. A Shacman trailer, carrying a significant load of bottled drinks, crashed at the Water Falls Junction, leaving the driver pinned within the wreckage. Upon receiving a distress call at 4:36 p.m., a specialized rescue team from the Kintampo Fire Station, led by Assistant Station Officer (ASTNO) Agyekum Emmanuel, arrived at the scene within ten minutes. Using specialized extrication equipment, the eight-member team managed to free the trapped driver, who was subsequently rushed to the hospital for urgent medical attention before the site was secured. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges of road safety in Ghana and coincides with intensified public discourse regarding the country's legislative framework for motorists. During a recent edition of JoyNews’ "The Law," legal experts and safety advocates analyzed Ghana’s newly introduced road traffic regulations. The discussion, hosted by Samson Anyenini, featured Kwame Koduah Atuahene from the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) and Appiah Kusi Adomako of CUTS International. The panelists examined how these updated rules will impact various stakeholders, including pedestrians and transport operators, while emphasizing the need for more rigorous enforcement measures to curb the frequency of highway accidents. The urgency for improved road safety is further highlighted by recent international tragedies, such as a devastating accident on Hungary’s M3 motorway where twelve people lost their lives. In that instance, a Polish tourist bus overturned late Saturday night, with investigators suggesting driver fatigue as a possible cause. As Ghana implements its new traffic laws, the GNFS and NRSA continue to urge drivers to exercise maximum caution and adhere to safety protocols to prevent both local and international road fatalities. The successful rescue at Water Falls Junction serves as a stark reminder of the vital role of emergency services and the critical importance of ongoing regulatory reforms aimed at protecting lives on Ghanaian roads.

Ghana Bolsters Security Operations through Private Sector Support and International Peacekeeping Training
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Ghana Bolsters Security Operations through Private Sector Support and International Peacekeeping Training

Ghana’s law enforcement and security apparatuses are undergoing significant capacity-building efforts on both domestic and international fronts. In a move to strengthen local drug enforcement, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) recently received vital logistical support in the Ashanti Region. Simultaneously, the Ghana Formed Police Unit (GFPU-5) stationed in Beletweyne, Somalia, has commenced rigorous tactical training to ensure operational readiness in its peacekeeping mission. These developments highlight a dual focus on enhancing mobility for domestic operations and maintaining high professional standards for officers serving abroad. In the Ashanti Region, Nana Susubiribi Aboboyaa I, CEO of the Aboboyaa Group of Companies, donated two motorcycles to the Ashanti Regional Command of NACOC. This contribution is specifically designed to enhance the mobility and operational capacity of the commission as it intensifies efforts to combat substance abuse and illicit drug activities. Major General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, Director-General of NACOC, expressed his profound gratitude for the donation, emphasizing that such private-sector partnerships are crucial for improving field operations and ensuring the safety of communities throughout the region. On the international stage, the Ghana Formed Police Unit (GFPU-5) began a five-day intensive weapons training program on August 13, 2026. The training is focused on improving the weapon-handling skills, discipline, and proficiency of personnel operating in the volatile environment of Somalia. Instruction covers a range of equipment, including machine guns, AK-47 rifles, and NP-18 sidearms, with a heavy emphasis on safety and professionalism. Two specialist instructors were brought in to facilitate the program, which aims to bolster the unit's capabilities as they support peace and stability in the region. These collective efforts reflect a broader commitment to strengthening Ghana’s security architecture through both equipment acquisition and human resource development. Major General Mantey has encouraged other corporate entities to follow the lead of the Aboboyaa Group, noting that achieving a drug-free society requires a collaborative approach. As the GFPU-5 continues its training in Somalia, the focus remains on ensuring that Ghanaian security personnel, whether at home or abroad, are fully equipped to handle the evolving challenges of modern law enforcement.

Two Dead and Hundreds Evacuated as Twin Wildfires Ravage Greek Island of Salamina
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Two Dead and Hundreds Evacuated as Twin Wildfires Ravage Greek Island of Salamina

Two people have been confirmed dead and more than 360 residents have been evacuated following the outbreak of two nearly simultaneous wildfires on the Greek island of Salamina. The blazes, which erupted on the island located near the capital city of Athens, spread rapidly through mixed residential and forested terrain, driven by aggressive winds and high temperatures. Emergency services are currently on high alert as they struggle to contain the flames and prevent the two separate fire fronts from merging into a single, uncontrollable inferno. The first fire was reported at approximately 14:40 local time, with a second ignition occurring just twenty minutes later. The rapid escalation of the situation prompted a massive emergency response involving roughly 200 firefighters, supported by five patrol boats and a fleet of firefighting aircraft. In addition to the two confirmed fatalities discovered in a residential area, at least four other individuals have been hospitalized with burns. Local authorities have also deployed water tankers and heavy construction machinery to create firebreaks in an effort to protect homes and preserve the remaining forested zones. This tragedy on Salamina comes amidst a wider surge in wildfire activity across the European continent this weekend. Similar emergency situations have been reported in Belgium and Croatia, highlighting a growing regional crisis as heatwaves and dry conditions persist. In Salamina, the evacuation of hundreds of people remains a priority while fire officials monitor unpredictable wind patterns that could further complicate containment efforts. The Greek government is expected to maintain a heightened state of readiness as fire crews work around the clock to stabilize the region and prevent further loss of life.