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.

Massive Sekondi fishing harbour fuel farm fire extinguished, no casualties recorded
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Emergency Teams Avert Disaster at Sekondi Fishing Harbour Following Landslide-Induced Fuel Fire

A multi-agency emergency response successfully contained a major fire at the Albert Bosomtwe-Sam Fishing Harbour in Sekondi on June 21. The blaze, which broke out during a period of torrential rainfall, was triggered when a landslide caused an electricity pole to collapse onto a premix fuel station. Despite the intensity of the flames and the challenging weather conditions, fire crews were able to extinguish the inferno within four hours, with no casualties or fatalities recorded. The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has launched an investigation into the structural integrity of the area following the incident. The incident began when heavy rains destabilized the surrounding terrain, leading to a mudslide that downed power lines. The resulting sparks ignited fuel vapors at the harbor’s storage facility, creating a massive blaze that spread rapidly as rainwater carried burning fuel through gutters. The fire destroyed the premix fuel station, two vehicles, and three handcarts. Additionally, portions of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) administration block, as well as nearby office and ice storage areas, sustained significant damage before the situation was brought under control. The containment of the fire was the result of a highly coordinated effort involving the GNFS, the Ghana Navy, and the Ghana Air Force. Deploying five fire tenders, the emergency teams worked until approximately 8:15 PM to ensure the flames did not reach critical infrastructure, specifically the coastal fuel tank, which could have triggered a far more catastrophic explosion. DCFO Jimmy Nab Daisie and other senior officials commended the bravery and efficiency of the responders who operated under the constant threat of further structural collapses and adverse weather. In the aftermath of the disaster, Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson ordered the immediate evacuation of traders from the affected area due to the ongoing risk of further landslides. This event has reignited urgent discussions regarding the safety of fuel storage at the harbor. James Richard Quayson, Director of the Port of Takoradi, noted that while there have been previous attempts to relocate the premix fuel activities to a safer location, these efforts had previously been unsuccessful. Authorities are now emphasizing the necessity of permanent preventive measures and the relocation of high-risk activities to ensure the long-term safety of the harbor’s operations and its personnel.

Cape Coast: Toddler and 2 others confirmed dead, 2 injured as rain induced mudslide destroys homes
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Central and Western Regions Devastated by Floods: 18 Dead and Thousands Displaced Following Building Collapses

Torrential rainfall has left a trail of destruction across Ghana’s Central and Western regions, resulting in at least 18 fatalities and the displacement of thousands of residents. The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) reports that the Central Region has been particularly hard-hit, with 58 building collapses recorded across 15 districts. The disasters, triggered by persistent heavy downpours, have affected over 5,000 individuals, many of whom have lost their homes, belongings, and livelihoods. In the Western Region town of Samreboi, the situation is equally dire, with over 2,000 people displaced as overflowing rivers submerged entire neighborhoods. The human toll of the disaster has been profound, marked by the tragic death of 20-month-old Hanson Mensah in a rain-induced mudslide at Tantri, Cape Coast. Other casualties include 12-year-old Anastasia Abakah and 40-year-old Adwoa Baduwa, who were killed when their home collapsed. NADMO officials have identified human activities as a primary driver of the severity of these floods. Emmanuel Kwesi Dawood, a NADMO Director, noted that encroachment on natural water channels and the blockage of drainage systems with refuse have prevented the free flow of water, leading to unprecedented flooding in urban centers like Cape Coast. In the Western Region, Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson has attributed the flooding in Samreboi to environmental degradation caused by illegal mining activities, known locally as galamsey. Despite the scale of the displacement, the Minister assured the public that a coordinated response between the district assembly and NADMO is underway. Relief items, including food, mattresses, and bedding, are being distributed to the 2,000 displaced persons currently seeking refuge in local schools and temporary shelters. However, local residents continue to express concern over the lack of long-term infrastructure to manage the recurring threat of seasonal floods. In response to the crisis, NADMO has issued a final 14-day evacuation order for occupants of structurally weak and dilapidated buildings across the Central Region. Authorities have warned that buildings identified as unsafe will be demolished at the owners' expense if they are not vacated voluntarily. While NADMO is coordinating with state agencies to fumigate affected areas and prevent disease outbreaks, the organization has admitted that a lack of adequate funding is hindering comprehensive disaster prevention measures. Moving forward, authorities are under increasing pressure to enforce building regulations and improve national drainage systems to mitigate the impact of future weather events.

Three arrested as NACOC raids cannabis production hub in Volta
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NACOC Dismantles Integrated Cannabis and Hashish Oil Production Hub in Volta Region; Three Arrested

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has arrested three suspects following a major tactical operation that dismantled a sophisticated cannabis production and distribution hub in the Volta Region. The overnight raid, conducted on June 22, targeted multiple locations including the communities of Koleonu, Wegbe, and Akplamafu. Based on credible intelligence, the operation uncovered an integrated facility where cannabis was not only cultivated but also processed and stored for distribution, marking a significant breakthrough in the commission's 2026 anti-narcotics campaign. During the raid, NACOC's tactical team discovered that the illicit operation was notably advanced, featuring specialized equipment for the production of hashish oil. This discovery is particularly significant as the facility functioned as a complete production chain under one roof—from cultivation to processing and final distribution. The commission noted that this operation resulted in the first arrests of the year in this specific sector, following a previous large-scale recovery of cannabis in May where no suspects were apprehended. The Volta Region remains a primary focus for law enforcement due to its status as a major hub for cannabis intended for both local markets and international trafficking. The three suspects currently in custody are assisting NACOC investigators in identifying broader supply routes and additional collaborators within the trafficking network. NACOC has expressed concern over the increasing sophistication of drug syndicates in Ghana and has pledged to pursue sustained enforcement strategies to dismantle these networks. Officials confirmed that the suspects will face prosecution in accordance with the law once investigations are finalized, highlighting the commission's reinforced stance against the narcotics trade. Authorities are urging the public to support law enforcement efforts by reporting suspicious activities within their communities, emphasizing that all tips will be handled with strict confidentiality. NACOC underscored that the success of such intelligence-led operations depends heavily on the collaboration between security agencies, community members, and international partners. By dismantling production hubs at their source, the commission aims to significantly disrupt the flow of illicit substances and enhance public safety across the country.

Volta Region: Six dead, 34 rescued in multiple road accidents
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Volta Region Road Carnage: Six Dead and 34 Rescued Following Multiple Tragic Crashes

A series of devastating road accidents across the Volta Region on Sunday, June 21, 2026, has left six people dead and 34 others injured or rescued. The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) reported three separate major incidents that spanned from the regional capital, Ho, to the Peki-Kpeve stretch. The day's events have once again brought road safety in the region into sharp focus, as emergency services worked throughout the afternoon to retrieve victims from wreckage and provide life-saving assistance to dozens of passengers. The scale of the accidents required a massive mobilization of emergency personnel to manage the multiple scenes occurring nearly simultaneously. The most prominent of these incidents occurred at the Ho Civic Centre traffic light area around 12:22 PM. A Hyundai truck, driven by Julius Adjei, reportedly suffered a total brake failure while descending the steep Galenkui Mountain. The uncontrolled vehicle barreled into a Bajaj tricycle, a TVS tricycle, and a Hoajue motorbike before finally coming to a halt against a fence wall. Two brothers, identified as Eric and Joshua Ganogo, were tragically pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. This specific location has become a notorious hotspot, with residents noting that this crash occurred just eight days after another fatal accident involving a cargo truck on June 13. Simultaneously, emergency crews responded to two other significant crashes that contributed to the grim toll. On the Peki-Kpeve Road, a collision between a MAN Diesel truck and a Toyota Camry required the GNFS to rescue several occupants who were trapped before the fire crews even arrived. More tragically, an accident involving a Metro Mass Transit (MMT) bus carrying 28 passengers resulted in four fatalities. While 24 individuals were successfully rescued from the bus wreckage, the loss of life highlighted the extreme severity of the day's traffic incidents. The GNFS emphasized that while many were saved, the high number of incidents in a single day is a major cause for concern. In the wake of these tragedies, community members in Ho have voiced urgent demands for authorities to implement enhanced safety measures on the Galenkui Hill descent, such as speed ramps or truck diversions. Local police have impounded the vehicles involved in the Civic Centre crash for further inspection as part of an ongoing investigation into the mechanical failures cited. Meanwhile, the Ghana National Fire Service has renewed its call for motorists to strictly adhere to road safety regulations and ensure regular vehicle maintenance to prevent similar brake-failure-related disasters in the future. The fatalities have been deposited at local morgues as investigations continue into the root causes of each collision.

Central University Student Drug Ring Busted Amidst Rising Legal Investigations and Social Disputes in Ghana
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Central University Student Drug Ring Busted Amidst Rising Legal Investigations and Social Disputes in Ghana

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has apprehended five students from Central University for their alleged involvement in the production and distribution of cannabis and cannabis-infused products. The suspects, who include Level 100, Level 300, and Level 400 students, were taken into custody following a targeted operation based on intelligence regarding drug-related activities on the university campus. This incident highlights growing concerns regarding substance abuse and illegal manufacturing within higher education institutions, prompting calls for stricter campus surveillance and drug prevention measures. In a separate legal development, the Airport Police Command has arrested two pilgrims returning from the Hajj for an alleged assault on a member of the Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana (PAOG). The incident, which occurred at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Saudi Arabia, led to the suspects' apprehension upon their arrival in Accra after Saudi authorities shared their details. While the suspects have been granted bail, the PAOG has publicly urged all pilgrims to maintain respect for officials during Hajj operations. Simultaneously, police in Tema are investigating the mysterious death of an unidentified man who collapsed at the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA) forecourt; witnesses reported seeing an unknown substance coming from the man's mouth before he died. Societal tensions have also flared in the religious and domestic spheres. Bishop Daniel Obinim of the International God’s Way Church has declared a "spiritual war" against Prophet Ogyaba, citing persistent disrespect and disappointment over recent actions. Obinim’s public criticism follows what he describes as a long-standing effort to remain silent during their feud. Meanwhile, a domestic dispute has gone viral as Apraku Kelvin Darlington, a Ghanaian based in Asia, demanded a DNA test for his child. This request followed claims by his wife, Ernestina Nti Konadu, that he is not the biological father, sparking a wider conversation on social media regarding paternity and family law. On the international front, extreme environmental conditions have forced the French government to implement a total ban on alcohol at public events for the Fête de la Musique festival. With a red heatwave alert in effect and temperatures reaching 41°C (105.8°F), authorities are taking drastic measures to preserve healthcare capacity and emergency services. This global context of crisis management parallels the localized efforts by Ghanaian authorities to maintain order and public safety amidst a series of disparate social, religious, and criminal investigations currently unfolding across the country.

Makindu Motors Proprietor Stephen Ngei and Wife Killed in Fatal Nairobi–Mombasa Highway Crash
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Makindu Motors Proprietor Stephen Ngei and Wife Killed in Fatal Nairobi–Mombasa Highway Crash

The Kenyan business community is in mourning following the tragic death of Stephen Ngei, the prominent proprietor of Makindu Motors Limited, and his wife, Ginnaphina Mumbua. The couple lost their lives in a devastating road accident on June 20, 2026, along the busy Nairobi-Mombasa Highway. The incident, which occurred in the Makindu area of Makueni County, has sent shockwaves through the Ukambani region and the automotive trade industry. Details from the scene indicate that the fatal crash involved a trailer, marking another grim chapter on a highway known for high-traffic volumes and frequent accidents. Stephen Ngei was a well-known figure in the regional motor trade, recognized for his leadership at Makindu Motors and his contribution to the local economy. His wife, Ginnaphina Mumbua, was also a respected member of the community, and their sudden passing has left a significant void in the social and commercial fabric of the Makueni district. The Nairobi-Mombasa Highway remains one of the most critical yet dangerous transit corridors in the region, frequently claiming lives despite various road safety interventions. As investigations into the specific cause of the collision continue, local authorities have once again urged motorists to exercise extreme caution when navigating this stretch of road. The loss of Mr. Ngei and his wife serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenges regarding road safety in the country. Funeral arrangements and memorial services are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.

Francis Owusu, Founder of Christ Upper Room Church, Granted GH¢100,000 Bail for Careless Driving
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Francis Owusu, Founder of Christ Upper Room Church, Granted GH¢100,000 Bail for Careless Driving

Francis Owusu, the 55-year-old founder of the Christ Upper Room Church, has been granted bail in the sum of GH¢100,000 with one surety by the Nkawie Circuit Court. The legal action follows a road traffic incident involving the clergyman, which led to multiple injuries and significant property damage. Owusu appeared before the court to answer charges related to his conduct behind the wheel, highlighting the judiciary's ongoing efforts to enforce road safety regulations regardless of a defendant's social or religious standing. The prosecution’s case centers on an incident that occurred on April 21, 2026. According to court records, Owusu was driving unsafely when his vehicle collided head-on with a passenger bus. The impact of the crash was severe, resulting in injuries to seven passengers on board the bus. During the proceedings, it was detailed that the defendant’s driving was considered inconsiderate and unsafe, leading directly to the dangerous encounter on the road. In his appearance before the court, Owusu pleaded guilty to the charge of careless and inconsiderate driving. However, he entered a plea of not guilty regarding the charge of causing harm to the victims of the crash. The presiding judge, in setting the bail at GH¢100,000, emphasized the gravity of the incident while allowing the defendant to prepare his defense for the contested charges. This case has drawn attention to the critical issue of road safety in Ghana and the legal responsibilities of all motorists. As the legal process unfolds, the Nkawie Circuit Court has adjourned the matter, with Francis Owusu scheduled to reappear on July 27, 2026. The upcoming trial will likely focus on the extent of the harm caused and whether the defendant’s actions meet the legal threshold for criminal liability beyond the admitted careless driving.

Five Dead and Dozens Injured in Separate Road Crashes in Ashanti and Volta Regions
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Five Dead and Dozens Injured in Separate Road Crashes in Ashanti and Volta Regions

At least five people have lost their lives and over 40 others have sustained various degrees of injury following two separate major road accidents in the Ashanti and Volta regions. Both incidents, which occurred on June 21, involved passenger buses, highlighting the ongoing challenges of road safety on Ghana’s major highways. In the Volta Region, a Metro Mass Transit bus plunged into a ditch, while in the Ashanti Region, a collision between a bus and a heavy-duty truck resulted in significant casualties and extensive emergency response efforts. The accident in the Volta Region occurred on the Peki stretch and involved a Metro Mass Transit (MMT) bus traveling from Accra to Dambai. The bus, carrying 28 passengers including the driver, reportedly veered off the road and fell into a ditch. Tragically, four people were confirmed dead at the scene. Among the fatalities were two pregnant women, reported to be five and six months pregnant respectively. Emergency responders have since transported the survivors to medical facilities, where at least two victims remain in critical condition while others are receiving treatment for various injuries. Simultaneously, in the Ashanti Region, a fatal collision occurred near the SDA Hospital in Offinso Namong. This incident involved a KIA Grandbird bus and a HOWO articulator truck. According to reports from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), which led the rescue operations, the crash occurred at approximately 5:19 AM. The impact of the collision resulted in one confirmed death and left 31 other passengers with injuries of varying severity. The victims were quickly rushed to the Offinso SDA Hospital for emergency medical attention, while fire officers worked to clear the wreckage and restore the flow of traffic on the busy stretch. Authorities in both regions have launched formal investigations to determine the exact causes of these tragic events. While the specific triggers for the Peki plunge and the Offinso collision are yet to be finalized by the Motor Transport and Traffic Directorate (MTTD), these accidents underscore the critical need for enhanced vigilance and stricter adherence to road safety protocols. As families mourn the loss of their loved ones, including the expectant mothers in the Volta Region, the public is once again reminded of the devastating human toll of road traffic accidents and the urgent need for improved driver safety measures.

John Dramani Mahama Honors Fatherhood, Urging Ghanaian Men to "Build Giants" for the Nation's Future
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John Dramani Mahama Honors Fatherhood, Urging Ghanaian Men to "Build Giants" for the Nation's Future

Former President John Dramani Mahama has extended a heartfelt tribute to fathers across Ghana and the global community on the occasion of Father’s Day. In a stirring message, the former leader called on men to embrace their pivotal roles in both the domestic and public spheres, emphasizing that the strength of the nation rests significantly on the foundation laid by dedicated fathers. His address centered on the theme of legacy, urging current generations of men to remain steadfast in their commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders and responsible citizens. Shared primarily via his social media platforms, Mahama’s message featured the evocative call to "continue to build giants." He articulated that fatherhood extends beyond mere biological connection, encompassing the responsibility of molding innovators who can navigate the complexities of the modern world. By framing fatherhood as a cornerstone of nation-building, the former President highlighted the sacrifices and dedication required in family life, noting that the guidance provided by fathers is essential for the development of the youth and the overall progress of the state. Beyond the former President's message, the day was marked by a wide array of activities across Ghana as families and communities took the time to express gratitude for the guidance of father figures. From special church services dedicated to the men in the congregation to intimate family gatherings and a surge of tributes on social media, the national sentiment mirrored the call for appreciation and respect. These celebrations served as a reminder of the critical influence that fathers and male role models exert in shaping the moral and social fabric of Ghanaian society, reinforcing a collective commitment to supporting those who mentor the next generation.

IGP Deploys Special Operations Support Team to Nkwanta Following Violent Attacks and Three Deaths
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IGP Deploys Special Operations Support Team to Nkwanta Following Violent Attacks and Three Deaths

In response to a surge in violent incidents within the Nkwanta municipality of the Oti Region, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has ordered the immediate deployment of a Special Operations Support Team. This decisive action, announced on June 20, 2026, follows a series of deadly attacks that have resulted in at least three confirmed fatalities and multiple injuries. The primary objective of the elite unit is to restore calm to the area, enhance public safety, and prevent further escalations of violence that have plagued the community in recent days. The deployment comes amid growing concerns over security in the region, where recent clashes have disrupted daily life and spread fear among residents. By sending specialized personnel, the Ghana Police Service aims to bolster the existing security framework and provide a more robust presence on the ground. The Inspector-General has assured the people of Nkwanta that the police are fully committed to protecting both lives and property, emphasizing that every necessary resource will be utilized to maintain law and order during this volatile period. Beyond the physical presence of the Special Operations Support Team, the police administration is calling for active community participation to bring the perpetrators to justice. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and have appealed for credible information that could aid ongoing investigations into the root causes of the attacks. As the security forces work to stabilize the situation, the focus remains on ensuring a long-term resolution to the conflicts and safeguarding the peace for all citizens in the Oti Region.

Police Probe Death of Kofi Obed Following Alleged Attempted Attack on Continuation Church in Sefwi Asafo
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Police Probe Death of Kofi Obed Following Alleged Attempted Attack on Continuation Church in Sefwi Asafo

Police in the Western North Region have launched an investigation into the mysterious death of a young man, identified as Kofi Obed, whose body was discovered by a roadside near Sefwi Asafo in the Sefwi Wiawso Municipality. The incident, which occurred on June 20, 2023, has sparked concerns in the local community. Obed, a resident of Sefwi Afere in the Bodi District believed to be in his late 20s, was found motionless shortly after he was reportedly involved in a confrontation at a local place of worship. According to preliminary reports, the deceased was allegedly part of a group that attempted to attack members of the Continuation Church earlier that morning. Following the attempted assault, Obed was apprehended by individuals at the scene. While the intention was reportedly to hand him over to the police, he was later found unresponsive near the roadside. The sequence of events between his apprehension and the discovery of his body remains the subject of intense police scrutiny as investigators work to determine if foul play was involved. The body of the deceased has been transported to the St John of God Hospital Mortuary for preservation and a pending autopsy to establish the exact cause of death. Regional police are currently managing two distinct but related inquiries: one focusing on the reported attempted attack on the church congregation and the other on the circumstances surrounding Obed's death. Authorities have called for patience as they gather evidence and interview witnesses to piece together the events of that morning, ensuring that justice is served for all parties involved.

NADMO Issues 14-Day Evacuation Order for Dilapidated Buildings in Central Region Amid Rising Rain Risks
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NADMO Issues 14-Day Evacuation Order for Dilapidated Buildings in Central Region Amid Rising Rain Risks

The Central Regional Directorate of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has issued a final 14-day ultimatum to occupants and owners of structurally compromised buildings to evacuate. This directive comes in response to the heightening risks of building collapses as the rainy season intensifies across the region. NADMO warned that the order is a critical measure aimed at safeguarding lives and preventing further tragedies following recent structural failures in the area, including a deadly collapse in Cape Coast. The directive requires all residents and businesses within identified unsafe structures to vacate the premises before the deadline to avoid potential fatalities and property loss. According to the official directive, all business activities and residential occupancy in structures identified as unsafe must cease immediately. NADMO has emphasized that any building remaining occupied after the two-week deadline will face enforced demolition. Crucially, the costs associated with such demolitions will be borne by the property owners themselves. This initiative is being carried out as a collaborative effort involving local government authorities and security agencies to ensure strict compliance with safety standards and regional building regulations. The agency noted that these measures are necessary to prevent the repeat of recent disasters where structural integrity was compromised by heavy downpours. The urgency of this evacuation order is underscored by the imminent dangers posed by the approaching peak of the rainy season. The regional directorate noted that persistent rains have further weakened the foundations and walls of many older or poorly maintained structures, rendering them hazardous to the public. By proactively identifying and marking these hazards, NADMO seeks to mitigate the impact of disaster before more lives are lost. The organisation stressed that public safety is the primary driver behind these enforcement actions, as structural failures often occur without warning during heavy storms. Beyond the evacuation mandate, NADMO is calling on the general public to play an active role in community safety. Residents are encouraged to report visible signs of structural distress—such as large cracks, leaning walls, or crumbling foundations—to local authorities for immediate technical assessment and intervention. This move is part of a broader strategy to foster a culture of disaster prevention and structural integrity within the Central Region. As the deadline approaches, NADMO remains committed to monitoring the situation and ensuring that all hazardous buildings are either fortified or removed to protect the citizenry.