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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.

New York City Endures Deadly Cold Wave: 18 Fatalities Reported Amid Record Sub-Zero Streak
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New York City Endures Deadly Cold Wave: 18 Fatalities Reported Amid Record Sub-Zero Streak

New York City is grappling with a severe humanitarian crisis following a historic cold snap that has claimed at least 18 lives. Mayor Zohran Mamdani confirmed the fatalities after the city endured 13 consecutive days of sub-zero temperatures, marking one of the longest sustained periods of extreme cold in over six decades. The lethal weather has prompted an urgent response from city officials and emergency services as they work to mitigate the impact on vulnerable populations and provide essential relief during the ongoing freeze. Since the onset of the crisis on January 19, the city administration has significantly ramped up its emergency interventions. Approximately 1,400 individuals have been placed in temporary housing as the city expanded its shelter capacity to accommodate those seeking refuge from the life-threatening conditions. The prolonged nature of this weather event has strained public resources, necessitating a coordinated effort to ensure that at-risk residents are protected from the elements during what has become a record-breaking meteorological event for the metropolis. While the National Weather Service predicts that temperatures will eventually begin to rise, officials warn that the danger is far from over. Health experts and city authorities continue to caution residents about the persistent risks of hypothermia and frostbite, which can occur rapidly in such extreme conditions. Mayor Mamdani and safety agencies have urged the public to remain vigilant and check on vulnerable neighbors, emphasizing that hazardous conditions remain a threat even as the most intense period of the sub-zero streak begins to subside.

Violent Fishing Dispute Sparks Clashes Between Ewe and Zabarma Communities in Krachi East
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Violent Fishing Dispute Sparks Clashes Between Ewe and Zabarma Communities in Krachi East

A violent conflict has erupted between the Ewe community of Nyekornakpoe and members of the Zabarma community in the Krachi East Municipality of the Oti Region. The clashes, which stemmed from a long-standing dispute over fishing rights and methods, have resulted in several injuries and the destruction of property. The tension reportedly peaked following disagreements over hazardous fishing practices in shared waters, leading to a breakdown of order and physical confrontations that have left local residents in a state of unease. The core of the grievance lies in the fishing techniques employed by the Zabarma youth. Members of the Ewe community have accused the Zabarma group of using fishing hooks that frequently damage Ewe nets and pose a significant physical danger to swimmers in the area. According to local reports, repeated complaints about these practices were ignored, leading to an escalation of hostilities. Mohammed Hassan, a spokesman for the Zabarma community, presented a different perspective, alleging that the Ewe community launched an unprovoked attack on their operations. Hassan claimed that the violence resulted in the theft of their goods and significant damage to their fishing equipment. Local Assembly Member Anthony Zodzenu has confirmed the incidents, noting that those injured during the skirmishes are currently receiving medical attention. Zodzenu also highlighted a regulatory complexity contributing to the friction: while the Zabarma community is active in the Krachi East waters, they reportedly hold a fishing permit issued by a different district. This jurisdictional overlap, combined with the clash of traditional and modern fishing methods, has created a volatile environment that local authorities are now struggling to manage. As the situation remains sensitive, the local administration and security agencies are expected to mediate between the two factions to prevent further bloodshed. This incident underscores the broader challenges of managing natural resources and ethnic co-existence within Ghana’s inland fishing industry. Moving forward, authorities will need to address the discrepancies in fishing permits and enforce standardized safety regulations to ensure that diverse communities can operate alongside one another without resorting to violence.

An exterior view of the Partou Nursery building on King Street. It is an orange building with four floors. It has white windows and white doors with a few steps up to them.
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Security and Justice Report: Arson Attack on Alpha Hour, Child Abuse Convictions, and Military Impersonation Arrest

Security concerns have dominated recent headlines following a series of high-profile arrests and criminal convictions spanning from Accra to the United Kingdom. In Ghana, the religious community is in shock after a woman was caught on CCTV setting fire to the auditorium of Pastor Elvis Agyemang’s Alpha Hour church on February 9, 2026. The footage revealed the suspect pretending to pray before dousing chairs with petrol and igniting them. In response to the attack—the second such incident targeting the church in two years—Pastor Elvis has suspended all in-person prayer sessions, describing the act as a manifestation of spiritual and physical hatred directed at places of worship. On the same day in Accra, security officials intercepted a 37-year-old man for impersonating a military officer near the 37 Military Hospital. The suspect, who was dressed in a full military uniform and was reportedly on his way to meet a nurse, was apprehended after he failed to correctly identify his military rank. Although the individual claimed to have served seven years in the Ghana Armed Forces, his inability to provide basic service details led to his arrest for further investigation. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding the unauthorized use of military regalia and the potential for impersonation to facilitate various crimes. On the international front, significant legal milestones were reached in the fight against child exploitation. In the United Kingdom, 30-year-old Nathan Bennett was found guilty of multiple counts of sexual abuse, including rape and sexual assault, against five boys aged two and three at the Partou King Street Nursery in Bristol. The conviction followed a lengthy investigation triggered by CCTV evidence and complaints from concerned staff and parents. Bennett, who claimed his actions were an attempt to emulate past abuse he suffered rather than a sexual attraction to children, is scheduled for sentencing on March 16, 2026. The case has sparked intense debate over nursery safeguarding protocols and the protection of vulnerable minors in educational settings. Similarly, authorities in Senegal have dismantled a transnational paedophile network linked to France, resulting in the arrest of 14 individuals across Dakar and Kaolack. This criminal gang, which had been active since 2017, is accused of the organized sexual exploitation of minors. The operation, supported by French law enforcement, follows the previous arrest of a French associate in April 2025. These combined local and international developments emphasize a growing global commitment to addressing violent crime, impersonation, and the protection of children through enhanced surveillance, public vigilance, and rigorous judicial processes.

Navigating the Dichotomy: Boakyewaa Glover’s Journey Through Chronic Illness and Mental Health Care
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Navigating the Dichotomy: Boakyewaa Glover’s Journey Through Chronic Illness and Mental Health Care

In a poignant reflection of the lived experience within Ghana's healthcare system, author Boakyewaa Glover has shared an intimate account of her journey managing both chronic physical ailments and complex mental health conditions. Centered on her monthly visits to the Melody Centre at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Glover describes a systemic hurdle common to many patients: the necessity of repeatedly recounting her medical history to a revolving door of different doctors due to a fragmented records system and the absence of a designated psychiatrist on her healthcare plan. Despite these institutional challenges, her meticulous self-documentation of symptoms often impresses the medical professionals she encounters, though it highlights the heavy burden placed on patients to manage their own care. At the heart of Glover’s narrative is a profound psychological dichotomy—the tension between a deep-seated craving for isolation and a simultaneous, aching desire for human connection. This internal conflict is exacerbated by the sheer exhaustion of living with conditions such as depression, PTSD, and Borderline Personality Disorder. Despite these significant hurdles, she maintains a rigorous schedule of professional work and family responsibilities, often masking her internal state with a calm, disciplined exterior. This struggle to maintain high productivity while feeling completely overwhelmed at home illustrates the invisible labor required to function in a society that often lacks a nuanced understanding of chronic illness. Glover’s experience also sheds light on the physiological aspects of mental health, drawing on research regarding nervous system dysregulation to explain her emotional states. By framing her struggles within both a biological and systemic context, she advocates for a more compassionate approach to self-care. Her story serves as a vital call for greater patience and validation of the invisible battles fought by those with chronic conditions, emphasizing that recognizing and honoring one's limitations is a crucial step toward wellness. Ultimately, her narrative underscores the need for more robust medical record-keeping and consistent patient-doctor relationships within the Ghanaian health sector to better support those navigating long-term recovery.

NHIA Donates GHS 800,000 to Ghana Medical Trust Fund as Nationwide NCD Care Rollout Intensifies
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NHIA Donates GHS 800,000 to Ghana Medical Trust Fund as Nationwide NCD Care Rollout Intensifies

The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has provided a significant financial boost to the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF), donating GHS 800,000 to support patients battling chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This contribution, raised voluntarily by NHIA management and staff, is specifically aimed at alleviating the heavy financial burden on individuals suffering from critical conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and kidney failure. The donation, announced on February 9, 2023, was framed as a gesture of love and hope during the month of February, reinforcing the authority's commitment to social responsibility and patient welfare. GMTF, also known as "Mahama Cares," expressed profound gratitude to the NHIA for the gesture. The trust fund highlighted the leadership of NHIA Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Victor Asare Bampoe, whose support has been instrumental in the initiative. By pooling resources from its own workforce, the NHIA aims to bridge the funding gap for life-saving treatments that are not fully covered under the standard National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). This donation is expected to provide immediate relief for vulnerable Ghanaians who often face catastrophic health expenditures when seeking specialized care. In tandem with receiving this support, the GMTF is intensifying its preparations for a nationwide rollout of NCD care services. A technical team, led by Health Policy Advisor Dr. Norbert Kipo, is currently conducting readiness assessments across regional hospitals, particularly in Ghana’s newly created regions. Recent visits, including those to the Sefwi Wiawso Government Hospital, are designed to identify service delivery gaps and ensure that health facilities are adequately equipped to handle chronic cases. The official rollout is scheduled for April, with the goal of ensuring that no patient is left behind regardless of their geographic location or financial status. Established by President John Dramani Mahama, the GMTF continues to advocate for a more inclusive healthcare system that addresses the growing prevalence of NCDs in Ghana. While the NHIA’s contribution marks a significant milestone, the GMTF has issued a call to action for other corporate institutions and private individuals to contribute to the fund. As the April rollout approaches, the fund remains focused on creating a sustainable support system for Ghanaians facing chronic health challenges, emphasizing that community-driven support is vital for the long-term success of the initiative.

PA Media Paul Grabham arriving at Swansea Magistrates Court, where he is charged with the murder of his wife, Kirsty. Paul is wearing a dark blue zip up top with white stripes down the shoulders and sleeves and is staring at the ground as he walks. A prison guard is walking behind him wearing a white shirt with a black tie and a gilet style jumper over the top. To Paul's immediate left is a police officer in full uniform looking at him
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The Tragic Murder of Kirsty Grabham: A Case of Domestic Abuse and the Gruesome Discovery in a Wedding Dress Bag

In a case that shocked the community and has resurfaced in public discourse, the disappearance of Kirsty Grabham in March 2009 ended in a gruesome discovery that exposed a pattern of domestic abuse. Kirsty, formerly Kirsty Wilkinson, was reported missing on March 30, 2009, by her husband, Paul Grabham. The initial report sparked an intensive police search that culminated in April 2009 when her remains were found discarded in a rural area. In a chilling detail, her body had been stuffed into her own wedding dress carrier, a symbol of the union that ultimately led to her tragic end. Forensic investigations quickly shifted focus toward Paul Grabham as inconsistencies in his story and suspicious behavior raised immediate red flags for investigators. The autopsy revealed that Kirsty had suffered severe injuries before her death, indicating a violent struggle. Detectives uncovered a dark history of abusive behavior within the couple's relationship, which had been hidden behind a facade of normalcy. Forensic evidence found at the couple’s home and on the wedding dress bag definitively linked Paul Grabham to the disposal of the body, painting a picture of a calculated attempt to hide his crime. The legal proceedings against Paul Grabham concluded in January 2010, when he was found guilty of Kirsty’s murder. During the trial, the prosecution presented a compelling case detailing how the marriage had deteriorated into violence, leading to the fatal confrontation in late March. The court heard how Grabham had attempted to mislead the police by reporting her missing while knowing exactly where her body lay. He was subsequently sentenced to life imprisonment, ensuring that he would face justice for the brutal killing of his wife. Beyond the courtroom, the murder left a devastating void in the lives of Kirsty’s family. The psychological toll of the tragedy was profound, most notably for Kirsty’s sister, who reportedly passed away later due to the overwhelming grief of losing her sibling under such horrific circumstances. The case remains a stark reminder of the lethal potential of domestic violence and the enduring trauma it inflicts on survivors and their families. It continues to be cited in documentaries and true crime studies as a harrowing example of how a domestic partner can turn from a protector into a predator.

UniMAC Community Bids Final Farewell to Journalism Student Killed in Somanya Hit-and-Run
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UniMAC Community Bids Final Farewell to Journalism Student Killed in Somanya Hit-and-Run

The University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC) community converged on Somanya on February 7, 2026, to pay their final respects to Nelson Blay Narkotey, a Level 300 Top-Up Journalism student who tragically lost his life in a hit-and-run accident. The somber event brought together members of the university management, led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Eric Opoku Mensah, alongside a large delegation of faculty and students. The funeral served as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the deep bond within the UniMAC community, as they mourned the loss of a student described as both dedicated and academically exceptional. During the burial service, tributes poured in from various quarters, highlighting Narkotey's commitment to his journalistic studies and his positive influence on his peers. Vice-Chancellor Professor Eric Opoku Mensah expressed the university's profound sorrow, emphasizing that the institution had lost a promising talent. The university's active presence at the funeral was part of a broader effort to support the bereaved family, ensuring they were not alone during this period of immense grief. Students who attended the ceremony reflected on Narkotey’s academic strength and the void his untimely passing has left within the journalism department. Beyond the immediate mourning, the tragic circumstances surrounding Narkotey’s death have catalyzed significant discussions within the university administration regarding the robustness of student support systems. The loss of a student to a road crash has prompted calls for better safety awareness and more comprehensive welfare structures to assist students and their families in times of crisis. As the UniMAC community moves forward, the legacy of Nelson Blay Narkotey remains a focal point for institutional reflection on how best to safeguard and support the student body in the face of such devastating losses.

Nigerian Student Sentenced in UK for NHS Fraud After Using Fake Identity to Work in Hospitals
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Nigerian Student Sentenced in UK for NHS Fraud After Using Fake Identity to Work in Hospitals

Oluwabunmi Adeleiyi, a Nigerian student residing in the United Kingdom on a visa, has been sentenced to 10 months in prison, suspended for two years, following a high-stakes fraud targeting the National Health Service (NHS). Adeleiyi was found guilty of using a fraudulent identity to secure a position as a healthcare support worker, a role she was not legally permitted to perform under her current immigration status. The case has raised significant concerns regarding the security protocols of UK healthcare facilities and the vetting processes for temporary staff. The elaborate scheme involved Adeleiyi and a group of accomplices who utilized fraudulent documents linked to a legitimate, registered healthcare worker based in Nigeria. By assuming this false persona, the group managed to bill the NHS approximately £16,000 per month for shifts worked across various hospital departments. The deception allowed Adeleiyi to bypass standard employment restrictions, though the sophisticated nature of the document forgery initially allowed her to go undetected while performing duties typically reserved for qualified support staff. The fraud was eventually uncovered when observant hospital personnel noticed discrepancies in Adeleiyi’s identification documents during a routine check. While court officials and hospital administrators confirmed that no direct physical harm came to any patients during her tenure, the breach was treated with extreme gravity. Investigators highlighted the significant risks posed by an unauthorized individual having unrestricted access to sensitive patient records and medical environments, which could have compromised both data privacy and institutional safety. In passing the sentence, UK court officials emphasized the seriousness of the incident as a breach of trust against a public institution. Although the 10-month sentence was suspended, the ruling serves as a stern warning against the use of stolen identities to circumvent employment laws. The case highlights ongoing challenges within the healthcare sector regarding the verification of international credentials and the need for more rigorous identification checks to protect the integrity of the NHS and the safety of its patients.

Osu Indigene Laments Missing Grave and Alleged Exhumation at Osu Cemetery
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Osu Indigene Laments Missing Grave and Alleged Exhumation at Osu Cemetery

A resident of Osu, Aku Allotey, has raised an alarm over the alleged exhumation and disappearance of her father’s remains at the Osu Cemetery in Accra. This distressing discovery comes at a time when the cemetery is officially under a burial ban, intended to manage the overcapacity of the historic burial ground. Allotey is calling on local authorities and the Greater Accra regional administration to intervene and provide answers regarding the sanctity of the grave and the whereabouts of the remains. The emotional plea highlights a growing concern over the management of old cemeteries in Ghana’s capital. Ms. Allotey reported that upon visiting the site, she found her father’s grave missing, suggesting that the remains had been removed without the family's consent or knowledge. The incident has caused significant distress to the family, who view the exhumation as a violation of their right to mourn and honor their deceased relative in a space they believed was secure and permanent. The Osu Cemetery, one of Ghana’s most prominent and oldest burial sites, has long faced challenges with space, leading to a ban on new burials to prevent further overcrowding. However, such bans often create a complex environment where existing graves may be vulnerable to unauthorized activities or administrative errors during site maintenance. The disappearance of graves in such high-traffic urban cemeteries raises serious questions about the oversight provided by municipal authorities and the security measures in place to protect the remains of the departed from being disturbed. As Ms. Allotey seeks justice and the restoration of her father’s final resting place, her case serves as a call for more transparent management of public cemeteries across the country. Families are increasingly worried that without strict enforcement of burial laws and proper digital record-keeping, the heritage and memory of their loved ones could be erased. The local government is yet to issue a formal statement on this specific case, but the situation underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive review of cemetery administration and grave documentation in the Greater Accra Region.

Brother of Notorious 1990s Occultist Dr. Beckley Breaks Silence on Family's Pain and "Bad Deeds"
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Brother of Notorious 1990s Occultist Dr. Beckley Breaks Silence on Family's Pain and "Bad Deeds"

For many Ghanaians who lived through the 1990s, the name Dr. Sri Yogi Ram Beckley evokes a lingering sense of dread and dark mystery. A man whose reputation was built on chilling allegations of kidnapping and sinister occult practices, Dr. Beckley became a symbol of fear in the New Fadama suburb of Accra. Recently, his brother, Lawyer Roger Beckley, has broken the family's long-standing silence, offering a rare and poignant glimpse into the internal turmoil and shame brought upon the Beckley household by the eldest sibling's notorious activities. According to Lawyer Roger Beckley, the family spent years grappling with the heavy burden of the "bad deeds" attributed to the infamous witch doctor. Despite his position as the eldest of the siblings, Roger claims that Dr. Beckley failed to uphold his familial responsibilities, instead choosing a path that brought immense disrepute to their collective name. Roger reflected on how the family made several attempts to intervene and redirect Dr. Beckley's path, but these efforts were met with defiance. The occultist reportedly distanced himself from his kin, choosing to operate in the shadows of his fortified residence, which frequently drew the ire of both the community and the law. The height of Dr. Beckley’s notoriety was marked by dramatic police raids in the mid-1990s, which reportedly uncovered disturbing evidence of criminal activity and occult rituals within his walls. These events led to multiple legal challenges and nearly sparked communal violence as angry residents demanded justice. Though he eventually passed away around 2011 to 2012, his death left many questions unanswered regarding the full extent of his alleged crimes. For the Beckley family, his passing marked the end of a turbulent chapter, yet as Roger Beckley's recent statements suggest, the emotional and social scars of being associated with Ghana's most infamous witch doctor remain deeply etched in the family’s history.

Viral Video of Ghana Police Officers Fixing Highway Potholes Sparks Mixed Reactions Online
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Viral Video of Ghana Police Officers Fixing Highway Potholes Sparks Mixed Reactions Online

Two officers from the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service have gained significant attention after a video surfaced online showing them manually filling potholes on a major highway. In a display of unconventional initiative, the uniformed officers were seen taking road maintenance into their own hands to improve traffic safety. The incident, which occurred around February 6, 2026, has since sparked a national conversation about the responsibilities of public servants and the deteriorating state of Ghana's road infrastructure. The viral footage depicts one officer actively transporting sand in a wheelbarrow to fill deep craters in the asphalt, while his colleague managed the flow of vehicles to ensure the safety of both the officers and the motorists. This proactive approach by the MTTD personnel was reportedly motivated by the immediate need to prevent accidents and reduce the traffic congestion often caused by large potholes. While the exact location of the highway was not explicitly specified in the initial reports, the visual evidence of the officers' hard labor has resonated across various social media platforms. Public reaction to the video has been deeply divided. On one hand, many netizens have lauded the officers for their dedication to public safety, describing them as patriots who are going above and beyond their call of duty to save lives and prevent vehicle damage. Supporters argue that such individual initiative is necessary when institutional responses are slow. Conversely, critics have voiced concerns regarding the appropriateness of police officers performing tasks designated for the Ghana Highway Authority or local municipal assemblies. These skeptics view the situation as a glaring symptom of ineffective governance and misplaced priorities, arguing that the police should focus on law enforcement rather than infrastructure repair. This incident highlights a growing trend of unconventional interventions in Ghana's public service delivery. While the officers' actions solved an immediate safety hazard, the broader discourse suggests a demand for more robust and timely road maintenance from the relevant state agencies. As the video continues to circulate, it serves as a reminder of the daily challenges faced by both road users and law enforcement officers in managing the nation's transport corridors. Whether this act will lead to official commendation or a review of departmental protocols remains to be seen, but it has undoubtedly intensified the call for better road management nationwide.

Security Concerns Rise Following Violence at School Sports Festival and Major Narcotics Bust
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Security Concerns Rise Following Violence at School Sports Festival and Major Narcotics Bust

Ghanaian authorities are grappling with a series of unsettling criminal incidents across the country, ranging from a distressing case of sexual violence in the Eastern Region to a significant drug enforcement operation in the Western Central Region. In Koforidua, the Eastern Regional Inter-School Sports Festival was overshadowed by reports of extreme violence involving students. A female student from Osino Presbyterian Senior High School was allegedly gang-raped during the event, leaving her in a severely weakened state that required urgent medical intervention at the Eastern Regional Hospital. The safety of the festival was further called into question following a separate incident where a student from Koforidua SECTECH was stabbed, sparking widespread concern over the adequacy of security at major student gatherings. In a separate development, the Western Central Regional Police Command successfully disrupted a narcotics ring in Tarkwa. Following a surveillance operation that began in late 2025, police conducted a raid on February 5, 2026, leading to the arrest of two suspects, Maclean Adaboro, 44, and Kelvin Anaam, 28. Officers recovered significant quantities of Tramadol and suspected cannabis during the search of their premises. While these two are currently in custody aiding investigations, the police are still trailing a third accomplice known as Atanga, who is believed to be a key supplier in the operation. These unrelated but significant incidents highlight the multifaceted challenges facing law enforcement in Ghana today. The violence at the Koforidua sports festival has prompted calls for stricter supervision and improved safety protocols for inter-school competitions to protect the physical and psychological well-being of students. Meanwhile, the drug bust in Tarkwa serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against substance abuse and illegal trafficking. Police officials have urged the public to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to help curb crime and ensure the safety of all citizens across the various regions.