News News from Ghana

The latest news news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

news|

Denu Circuit Court Grants GH"40,000 Total Bail to Two Men Over Narcotics Possession and Bribery Charges

The Denu Circuit Court has granted bail to two men, Kumensah Kodzo John, 23, and Wonder Kwame Kudafa, 32, following their arraignment on charges related to the possession of suspected narcotics and an attempt to bribe police officers. Both suspects were granted bail in the sum of GH"20,000 each. As part of the bail conditions, Kumensah, a taxi driver, is required to report to the Dzodze Police station twice a week while the legal process unfolds. The prosecution's case stems from an incident on July 15, 2026, when police intercepted a taxi driven by Kumensah. Upon a thorough search of the vehicle, officers discovered 310 parcels of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp. During the initial investigation, Kumensah reportedly admitted to possessing the substance but contended that he had merely been hired to transport the parcels for another individual, whose identity was not immediately disclosed. The situation escalated during the investigation when Wonder Kwame Kudafa intervened. According to court proceedings, Kudafa approached the investigating officers and offered a bribe of GH"10,000 in exchange for Kumensah’s release and the termination of the case. The police rejected the offer and immediately arrested Kudafa for attempted bribery. The GH"10,000 offered as a bribe has been retained by the court as an exhibit to be used as evidence during the trial. Presiding over the case, the court adjourned the matter to August 7, 2026, to allow for further proceedings and forensic testing of the seized substances. This case highlights the ongoing efforts by regional law enforcement to curb the transport of illegal narcotics and the firm stance taken against attempts to compromise the integrity of the police service through financial inducement.

Eleven Schoolchildren Injured as Tipper Truck Rams into School Bus on N1 Highway
news|

Eleven Schoolchildren Injured as Tipper Truck Rams into School Bus on N1 Highway

A serious road accident on the Dzorwulu–Accra Mall stretch of the N1 Highway on Tuesday, July 30, 2026, has left eleven lower primary schoolchildren injured and one in critical condition. The incident occurred when a loaded tipper truck crashed into the rear of a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter bus, with registration number GT-5717-14, which was transporting the pupils. The children were reportedly returning from a school excursion when the collision took place, causing significant damage to both vehicles and resulting in immediate traffic congestion along the busy thoroughfare. Emergency response teams, including the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), arrived at the scene shortly after the crash to conduct an initial assessment and assist the victims. According to eyewitness accounts and official reports from the GNFS, the impact was severe, leaving visible blood stains inside the school bus and causing extensive structural damage to the rear of the Sprinter. While the cause of the crash is still being examined by the police, preliminary findings indicate that the truck struck the bus from behind with considerable force. The injured children were quickly evacuated to nearby medical facilities for urgent care. One child, whose condition is currently critical, has been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Police Hospital. The remaining ten pupils are receiving treatment at the 37 Military Hospital. While authorities have not yet confirmed the full extent of all injuries, medical teams are working to stabilize the victims. The harrowing nature of the scene has sparked renewed concerns regarding the safety of school transport and the regulation of heavy-duty vehicles within the capital. Investigations into the cause of the accident are ongoing as the police analyze the scene and question witnesses. The wreckage of the vehicles was eventually moved to clear the N1 Highway, which experienced heavy traffic throughout the afternoon. This incident highlights the persistent dangers on Accra's major highways and the need for stricter enforcement of road safety protocols, particularly for vehicles carrying young students. Further updates on the condition of the injured children and the legal status of the truck driver are expected as the investigation continues.

Tamale High Court Sentences Former Police Officer and Accomplice to 25 Years for Armed Robbery
news|

Tamale High Court Sentences Former Police Officer and Accomplice to 25 Years for Armed Robbery

The Tamale High Court has sentenced a former police officer, G/Cpl Suleman Ayuba Gbana, and his accomplice, Adam Siba, to 25 years in prison with hard labour for their roles in a violent 2020 robbery. The sentencing, delivered on July 20, 2026, concludes a long-standing legal battle following a high-profile attack on foreign exchange dealers in the Northern Regional capital. While the two primary defendants were convicted of conspiracy to commit robbery and robbery, a third suspect, Mohammed Iddrisu, was acquitted of all charges due to insufficient evidence. The case stems from an incident on April 15, 2020, when a syndicate targeted two foreign exchange dealers in Tamale. During the brazen daylight operation, the victims were attacked and shot, and the robbers escaped with GH¢530,000 along with various other foreign currencies. The violent nature of the crime and the subsequent revelation of a law enforcement officer's involvement caused significant public outcry and raised concerns about the integrity of the security services at the time. Investigations into the robbery accelerated after a suspect identified Corporal Gbana as a member of the syndicate. On April 23, 2020, police conducted a targeted search of Gbana’s residence, uncovering a Ghana Police Service-issued pistol and ammunition that he had unlawfully retained. This critical piece of evidence linked the officer directly to the crime, leading to his arrest and eventual dismissal from the police force as the trial proceeded. In passing the sentence, the court emphasized the severity of the crime and the breach of public trust committed by a serving officer. The presiding judge also ordered that the recovered police firearm and ammunition be returned to the Ghana Police Service. This verdict is seen as a significant step in the judiciary's efforts to curb violent crime and ensure that all individuals, regardless of their status or profession, are held accountable for criminal activities that threaten public safety and the local economy.

Police Investigate Death of Kandau Murder Suspect Abu Tijani Amid Global Aviation Disruptions
news|

Police Investigate Death of Kandau Murder Suspect Abu Tijani Amid Global Aviation Disruptions

The Ghana Police Service has officially launched a high-level investigation into the death of Abu Tijani, a primary suspect in the murder of two youths in Kandau. Tijani, a youth leader who had successfully evaded authorities for some time, died shortly after his arrest on July 25, 2026. The Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) is now leading the inquiry to determine the exact circumstances surrounding his passing while in state custody. During his initial interrogation, Tijani had reportedly cooperated by providing critical information regarding the location of the victims' bodies, making his sudden death a significant turn in the ongoing criminal case. According to police reports, the suspect's health deteriorated rapidly while he was being transported to assist in the apprehension of an accomplice. After complaining of a severe headache, officers diverted him to the SDA Hospital, where he was subsequently pronounced dead. In an effort to maintain public order and transparency, the police administration has been actively engaging with the Wechau community. Authorities are urging residents to remain calm and disregard speculative reports while the PPSB completes its formal investigation into the medical and procedural aspects of the incident. On the international front, significant travel disruptions are affecting transit to and from the United States, which may impact Ghanaian travelers and international logistics. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced a major slowdown of flights at Philadelphia International Airport and three key New York City hubs: JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark Liberty International. These delays are the result of a critical staffing shortage at the New York Air Route Traffic Control Centre, combined with severe weather conditions. The staffing crisis has reached a point where the FAA is operating at only 57% of its targeted personnel levels, forcing existing controllers into mandatory six-day work weeks. The implications of these aviation challenges are expected to persist for several years, with flight limits at JFK and LaGuardia extended through October 2028, and through the summer of 2027 for Newark. Currently, airlines are experiencing cancellation rates of 20% to 30%, with ground delays ranging from 71 to 149 minutes. To manage the congestion, the FAA has issued a waiver allowing airlines to reduce their flight schedules by 10%. While the local investigation in Kandau seeks to provide justice and clarity for the victims' families, these global aviation constraints highlight a different set of systemic pressures facing international infrastructure.

Dogbe-Gakpetor Family Announces Passing of Rosemary Selasi Dogbe; Nana Agradaa Reflects on Prison Life
news|

Dogbe-Gakpetor Family Announces Passing of Rosemary Selasi Dogbe; Nana Agradaa Reflects on Prison Life

The Dogbe-Gakpetor and allied families have formally announced the sudden passing of Mrs. Rosemary Selasi Dogbe, who died on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at the age of 45. Mrs. Dogbe, the daughter of the late Christian Kwabla Dogbe, passed away at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra. She was the widow of the late Haizel Asante, a former prominent staff member of Joy FM. The family has requested prayerful support from the public as they navigate this difficult period of loss. Mrs. Dogbe is survived by her three siblings: Christiana Edem Dogbe, Felix Senanu Dogbe, and Christopher Kwaku Dogbe. While the shock of her sudden departure remains fresh, the family has indicated that formal funeral arrangements and burial rites will be communicated to the public at a later date. This news has touched the media community, given her late husband's significant contributions to Ghanaian broadcasting during his tenure at Joy FM. In a separate development within the public sphere, Evangelist Patricia Asiedu Asiamah, popularly known as Nana Agradaa, has shared candid reflections on her experiences during her time in prison. Speaking on the social challenges of incarceration, Agradaa revealed that she formed a close bond with an inmate she described as her "prison bestie." Despite the initial camaraderie and the inmate's kindness in sharing food, the relationship eventually came to an end due to behavioral conflicts. Nana Agradaa explained that she made the decision to "cut off" the friendship because her companion was frequently involved in fights and used abusive language. She noted that since she herself possesses a "feisty" and strong-willed personality, having a friend with a similar temperament became counterproductive to maintaining peace during her custody. Agradaa emphasized the need to distance herself from disruptive influences, even within the confines of a prison setting. These recent reports highlight the diverse and personal challenges faced by notable figures and families within Ghana's media and religious landscapes. Whether mourning the loss of a loved one or navigating the social complexities of legal tribulations, these stories continue to draw significant public interest and reflection on the human experiences behind the headlines.

Ashanti Regional National Security Secretariat Reports Obuasi Airport Mining Resurgence Amidst Global Environmental Crises
news|

Ashanti Regional National Security Secretariat Reports Obuasi Airport Mining Resurgence Amidst Global Environmental Crises

The Ashanti Regional National Security Secretariat has uncovered a bold return to illegal mining activities near the Obuasi Airport, occurring shortly after a security operation resulted in the seizure of equipment at the site. During a recent inspection, officials found that excavators were back in use and that significant environmental damage had been inflicted on the land surrounding this critical infrastructure. This resurgence underscores the ongoing difficulty in curbing illegal mining operations, even at locations where state security has previously intervened to halt ecological destruction. In a parallel environmental crisis on a global scale, the Mayor of Bordeaux, Thomas Cazenave, has warned that massive wildfires are now just 15 kilometers from the French city. President Emmanuel Macron has described the current wildfire season as unprecedented, with more than 220,000 people evacuated across France and another 100,000 in Spain. The Gironde region has suffered the most, losing 42,000 hectares of forest and 240 homes to the flames, which officials attribute to a combination of human activity and the intensifying effects of climate change across the European continent. These disparate events in Ghana and Europe illustrate a shared vulnerability to environmental degradation and the complex challenges of law enforcement during crises. While the French government mobilizes to protect major cities from climate-driven blazes, Ghanaian authorities are grappling with the persistent defiance of illegal miners whose activities threaten national assets. Both situations highlight the urgent need for sustained, long-term strategies to address the human factors—whether through illegal land use or climate-forcing actions—that continue to put local communities and essential infrastructure at risk.

Ga Mantse King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II to Lead 2026 ESRI Summit as New Juaben South Implements Sanitation Spot Fines
news|

Ga Mantse King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II to Lead 2026 ESRI Summit as New Juaben South Implements Sanitation Spot Fines

Significant strides in both technological diplomacy and local environmental governance have been made this week, highlighting a multifaceted approach to Ghana's development under the administration of President John Mahama. In Accra, His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse, formally received a delegation from Sambus Geospatial Ltd to discuss the upcoming ESRI User Conference West Africa 2026. Simultaneously, the New Juaben South Municipal Assembly has launched a rigorous spot-fine initiative to combat indiscriminate littering, underscoring a nationwide push for cleaner and more technologically integrated cities. During the high-level meeting at the Ga Mantse’s palace, Managing Director Akua Aboabea Aboah of Sambus Geospatial briefed the King on the strategic importance of hosting the 2026 ESRI conference in the capital. The conference is set to be a landmark event for geospatial professionals across West Africa, focusing on the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in solving regional challenges. The Ga Mantse was formally invited to deliver an address at the opening ceremony, signaling the support of traditional authorities for digital transformation and regional expertise. In a parallel effort to improve urban living standards, the New Juaben South Municipal Assembly in the Eastern Region has begun enforcing strict penalties for environmental violations. Environmental Officer Emmanuel Tetteh announced that individuals, particularly those in transit, would face immediate fines for discarding waste from vehicles. This was recently demonstrated when a taxi driver was fined GHC100.00 for littering while driving. The assembly’s initiative aims to curb the habit of indiscriminate waste disposal that has long plagued municipal sanitation efforts. These developments reflect a broader national commitment to accountability and growth. While the Ga Mantse fosters international and technological collaboration, local assemblies are taking concrete steps to ensure that urban development is accompanied by environmental discipline. The success of the 2026 ESRI conference and the sustainability of the spot-fine program both depend on active citizen engagement and the continued synergy between traditional leadership and state institutions to foster a cleaner, more modern Ghana.

NSW Police Force Several red and white bags with apples on them in the boot of a white car.
news|

Ghana Police Apprehend 93 Suspects in Massive Ashanti Region Drug and Human Trafficking Crackdown

The Ghana Police Service has conducted a significant sweep in the Ashanti Region, resulting in the arrest of 93 individuals suspected of involvement in high-level narcotics trafficking and organized crime. The operations, which took place between July 15 and July 24, 2026, targeted notorious drug dens within the Kumasi metropolis and the Atwima Nwabiagya Municipality. This crackdown represents a major victory for law enforcement as the police work to dismantle criminal networks that threaten national security and public health during President John Mahama's administration. Among the 93 suspects currently in custody, 65 are Ghanaian nationals, while 28 are of Nigerian origin. Beyond the recovery of substantial quantities of illegal substances, the police revealed that their investigations uncovered disturbing links to human trafficking and sexual exploitation. The dual nature of these criminal activities suggests that the apprehended syndicates were operating complex, multi-layered illicit enterprises. Authorities have confirmed that the suspects will remain in custody while further investigations are conducted to identify additional collaborators and broader supply chains. These local efforts mirror a persistent global challenge regarding the illegal drug trade and the movement of traffickers across borders. International incidents, such as the previous arrest of two Scottish nationals in Australia for attempting to distribute 105kg of ketamine, highlight the specialized nature of modern drug distribution networks. Law enforcement agencies are increasingly identifying trends where individuals travel specifically to foreign jurisdictions for drug distribution, a phenomenon that Ghanaian officials are monitoring closely as they vet foreign nationals involved in local syndicates. The Ghana Police Service has signaled that the Ashanti Region operation is part of a renewed offensive against organized crime. With the successful identification of key figures in the narcotics trade, security experts anticipate further raids across other regions. The integration of human trafficking investigations into these drug busts highlights a shift toward a more holistic approach to public safety, ensuring that the most vulnerable victims of these criminal enterprises are protected while the perpetrators face the full rigors of the law.

Ghana Public Safety Alert: Tema Gas Leak Contained, Widespread Power Maintenance, and Weather Warnings Issued for July 28
news|

Ghana Public Safety Alert: Tema Gas Leak Contained, Widespread Power Maintenance, and Weather Warnings Issued for July 28

Emergency responders in Tema were on high alert on Tuesday, July 28, following a major gas tanker leakage at Community 7, coinciding with scheduled nationwide power outages and severe weather warnings from the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet). The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) was swiftly deployed to the scene near the Tema Technical Institute bus stop to contain the leak and mitigate potential fire hazards. This emergency highlighted a day of significant logistical challenges for residents across the country as service providers and safety agencies issued multiple advisories. The gas leak in Tema caused immediate disruption to local traffic and residential activities. Firefighters successfully managed to stabilize the situation, though authorities have kept the area under surveillance while investigations into the cause of the leakage continue. Motorists and residents in the vicinity were urged to exercise extreme caution and follow safety protocols established by the emergency personnel to prevent any further escalation of the risk in the densely populated area. Simultaneously, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) implemented a massive maintenance schedule across several key regions, including Ashanti, Central, Accra East, Accra West, and Tema. These planned outages, which were scheduled to run from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm in most areas, were designed to facilitate essential upgrades and improve overall service delivery. While the ECG apologized for the inconvenience, the timing added to the day's disruptions, particularly in the Tema region where emergency services were already managing the gas leak incident. Adding to the day's complexities, GMet issued a nationwide weather advisory warning of reduced visibility due to mist and fog during the early morning hours. The agency projected variable cloud cover and scattered rainfall across southern communities, with more intense thunderstorms expected in the northern regions later in the day. Motorists were specifically cautioned to be wary of hazardous driving conditions, while coastal operators were warned of rough sea conditions that could impact maritime and beach-front activities. As these events unfolded, Ghanaians were encouraged to stay informed through official channels and make necessary adjustments to their daily routines. The combination of environmental factors and planned infrastructure maintenance underscores the ongoing efforts by national agencies to manage public safety and modernize utility services. Residents are advised to continue monitoring updates from the GNFS, ECG, and GMet as the situation across the various regions stabilizes throughout the evening.

Agona Swedru: Robbers shoot mobile money agent during Sunday night attack
news|

Security Concerns Rise Following Violent Attacks on Mobile Money Agents, Reforestation Workers, and Footballer Mohammed Fuseini

Ghanaian authorities and citizens are on high alert following a series of violent attacks and fraudulent activities targeting workers and high-profile individuals both at home and abroad. In a span of 48 hours, a professional footballer was ambushed in Belgium, a mobile money agent was shot in the Central Region, and a reforestation worker was critically injured in the Ashanti Region. These incidents have sparked renewed conversations about public safety and the increasing desperation of criminals utilizing both physical force and digital deception to exploit hard-working citizens. In Agona Swedru, the police are currently hunting for armed robbers who shot 32-year-old mobile money agent Eric Barns during a Sunday night raid. The attack, which occurred around 7:40 p.m. at Militia Junction, left Mr. Barns with a serious gunshot wound to the stomach. He was initially treated at the Agona Swedru Municipal Hospital before being transferred to the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital for specialist care. Similarly, in the Ashanti Region, a worker for Next Door Farms is in critical condition after being shot by suspected illegal chainsaw operators in the Abesewa Forest. The violence erupted when company officials attempted to stop the illegal felling of newly planted trees, highlighting the lethal risks faced by those protecting Ghana's environmental resources. Beyond physical violence, financial fraud continues to plague the mobile money sector. In Akyem Oda, residents recently apprehended Jesse Samuel, who allegedly impersonated a mobile airtime vendor to steal GH"3,000 from an elderly citizen's wallet. Upon his arrest, the suspect reportedly confessed to the crime, claiming he stole the funds to settle an outstanding QwikLoan debt. Meanwhile, the threat to Ghanaians extends beyond national borders; on July 26, 2026, Ghana international and Royale Union Saint-Gilloise winger Mohammed Fuseini was violently robbed in broad daylight in Brussels. The 24-year-old was sitting in his parked car when five hooded men ambushed him, stripping him of his valuables in a brazen daylight attack. These diverse incidents underscore a complex security landscape facing the nation. While the police in the Ashanti Region have made progress by arresting two suspects in the forest shooting, the perpetrators of the Agona Swedru robbery and the Brussels ambush remain at large. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and provide any information that could lead to further arrests. The recurring theme of attacks on mobile money operators, in particular, has led to calls for enhanced security measures and better protection for those providing essential financial services in local communities across the country.

Naridon Village Massacre and Anambra Hostel Collapse Headline Weekend of Tragedy and Economic Strain in Nigeria
news|

Naridon Village Massacre and Anambra Hostel Collapse Headline Weekend of Tragedy and Economic Strain in Nigeria

Nigeria faced a somber weekend marked by significant loss of life and growing economic hardship as reports emerged of a brutal terrorist attack in Kaduna State and a fatal building collapse in Anambra State. In Naridon Village, located within the Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna, at least 30 people were confirmed dead following a late-night assault on Sunday. The victims included eight children, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the violence that has left the community in mourning and several others injured as homes and businesses were razed. The attack in Kaduna occurred around 11:00 PM, causing widespread destruction that has drawn sharp condemnation from political figures across the country. Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and the People's Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Usman Bawa, joined the Kaduna State Government in denouncing the act. The incident underscores the persistent security challenges in the region, where rural communities remain vulnerable to sudden, violent raids that disrupt the social and economic fabric of the state. Simultaneously, residents in Amaokpala, Anambra State, were shocked by the sudden collapse of the Elite Five Star Lodge on Sunday night. The three-storey hostel, which contained approximately 60 rooms and primarily housed students, gave way suddenly, trapping several occupants under the rubble. Emergency responders worked through the night, successfully rescuing three individuals from the debris, but authorities have confirmed that at least two people lost their lives in the disaster. The incident has raised fresh concerns regarding building standards and the safety of student accommodations in university towns. Amidst these tragedies, Nigeria’s commercial nerve center, Lagos, continues to struggle with the ripple effects of global instability. Business owners in suburbs like Somolu are finding it increasingly difficult to remain afloat as fuel prices soar, a situation reportedly exacerbated by geopolitical tensions as far away as the Strait of Hormuz and Iran. For small-scale entrepreneurs like Oluwatosin Awodunmila, who runs a printing business, the rising cost of energy translates into thinner margins and a daily battle to sustain operations, illustrating the profound impact of international conflicts on the local Nigerian economy. These simultaneous crises—security breaches in the north, infrastructural failures in the south, and economic volatility in the west—present a complex challenge for Nigerian authorities. As families in Kaduna and Anambra bury their dead and business owners in Lagos navigate financial uncertainty, there is an urgent call for more robust government interventions. Addressing the root causes of insecurity, enforcing stricter building regulations, and stabilizing energy costs remain critical priorities for ensuring the safety and prosperity of citizens across the federation.

news|

Sarah Adwoa Safo Rebuts Claims of Father’s Funeral Cancellation, Discloses 60% of Estate Willed to Orphans

Sarah Adwoa Safo, the former Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, has firmly dismissed reports suggesting the cancellation of burial arrangements for her late father, the renowned Apostle Dr. Kwadwo Safo Kantanka. Affirming that the funeral rites will proceed as scheduled on July 30, Safo urged members of the Kristo Asafo Mission and the general public to disregard conflicting announcements. The controversy highlights a deepening rift within the family of the late industrialist and religious leader as they navigate the transition of his significant legacy. The dispute became public following an announcement by her brother, Israel Kwadwo Safo (also known as Akofena), which claimed the funeral had been halted. Sarah Adwoa Safo countered this by stating that her brother lacks the legal standing, or "locus," to unilaterally stop the proceedings. She further alleged that he has not made significant contributions to the funeral planning process, which is being coordinated by other stakeholders within the family and the church leadership. This public disagreement has cast a shadow over the preparations for the final farewell of the man often celebrated as a pioneer of indigenous Ghanaian technology. In addition to addressing the funeral arrangements, Adwoa Safo shared significant details regarding her father’s last will and testament to settle ongoing rumors. She revealed that Apostle Dr. Kwadwo Safo Kantanka designated 60% of his extensive estate to orphaned children who supported his church and mission. This disclosure serves to clarify claims that the beneficiaries were merely domestic staff. According to the former MP, her father’s decision was a deliberate act of philanthropy, reflecting his lifelong commitment to the welfare of vulnerable individuals and those who served the Kristo Asafo Mission faithfully. As the July 30 burial date approaches, the family continues to face scrutiny over the management of both the funeral and the Apostle’s vast technological and religious empire. Despite the internal friction, Sarah Adwoa Safo has insisted that the arrangements remain on schedule and that her father's wishes, as documented in his will, must be respected. The resolution of these family tensions is seen as critical for the future stability of the Kristo Asafo Mission, which remains a cornerstone of Ghana’s religious and industrial landscape.