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.

Efe Amissah-Arthur Offers Prayers for John Dramani Mahama During High-Profile Visit to Cape Coast
news|

Efe Amissah-Arthur Offers Prayers for John Dramani Mahama During High-Profile Visit to Cape Coast

A viral video featuring Efe Amissah-Arthur, the mother of the late former Vice President Paa Kwesi Amissah-Arthur, has captured significant public attention following a high-profile visit from former President John Dramani Mahama. The footage, which has circulated widely on social media platforms, depicts a poignant moment where the matriarch offered heartfelt prayers for Mahama and his accompanying delegation. The meeting took place at her residence in Cape Coast, marking a continuation of the long-standing relationship between the former President and the family of his late political partner. During the courtesy visit, Mr. Mahama was accompanied by several prominent members of his party delegation. The atmosphere was described as deeply emotional and respectful, reflecting the deep ties forged during the Mahama-Amissah-Arthur administration. Mrs. Amissah-Arthur’s decision to publicly bless the former President’s endeavors is seen by many as a powerful endorsement of his character and leadership, especially given her status as a respected elder within the Cape Coast community and the mother of a former statesman. The prayer session highlighted the personal and human elements that often underpin Ghanaian political life. Beyond the strategic implications for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Central Region, the visit underscored Mahama’s commitment to maintaining relationships with the families of his past colleagues. This gesture of reaching out to the Amissah-Arthur family is particularly significant as it reinforces a sense of unity and continuity within the party's rank and file, honoring the legacy of the late Vice President while looking toward future political milestones. The late Paa Kwesi Amissah-Arthur served as Vice President of Ghana from 2012 to 2017 under the Mahama administration. Since his passing in 2018, Mahama has frequently paid respects to the family, demonstrating a bond that transcends their formal political partnership. As the video continues to trend, it serves as a reminder of the enduring influence of the Amissah-Arthur legacy in Ghanaian politics and the pivotal role that maternal blessings and traditional respect play in the nation's political culture.

Ghana National Fire Service Responds to Fatal Tanker Explosion and Destructive Commercial Blaze
news|

Ghana National Fire Service Responds to Fatal Tanker Explosion and Destructive Commercial Blaze

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has been heavily engaged in managing two major fire emergencies that resulted in one fatality and significant property destruction across the country. These incidents, involving a fuel tanker explosion on the Akosombo–Tema Highway and a commercial fire in the Volta Region, have highlighted the critical role of rapid emergency response in preventing large-scale disasters. While firefighters were able to contain both blazes, the intensity of the fires led to a tragic loss of life in the highway incident and the total loss of a business in Peki Dzogbati. The most severe incident occurred on the Akosombo–Tema Highway, where a fuel tanker overturned and erupted into flames in the early hours of the morning. The Somanya Municipal Fire Station received a distress call at 4:41 a.m. and immediately dispatched crews to the scene. Although firefighters successfully brought the blaze under control by 5:58 a.m., the driver was found dead at the site of the crash. The driver’s mate, who sustained critical burns, was evacuated for medical treatment. The complete destruction of the tanker emphasizes the ongoing safety risks associated with the transportation of hazardous flammable materials on major highways. In a separate emergency in the Volta Region, a wooden provision store in Peki Dzogbati was razed by fire. Despite the total loss of the structure and its contents, the GNFS was credited with preventing a much larger disaster. By arriving quickly and employing rapid intervention techniques, fire crews were able to contain the flames and safeguard adjoining properties from the inferno. This incident underscores the extreme susceptibility of timber-based structures to fire, particularly within crowded commercial areas where the risk of spread is high. Together, these events illustrate the diverse fire hazards currently facing the nation, from industrial transport accidents to the vulnerability of local retail infrastructure. The GNFS continues to emphasize the importance of fire safety protocols and the need for heightened vigilance. Investigations into the specific causes of both the tanker explosion and the store fire are ongoing, as authorities seek to identify measures that could prevent similar tragedies and minimize the impact of fire-related emergencies in the future.

Interpol Names Anastasiia Berezovska as Prime Suspect in Monaco Bombing of Real Estate Tycoon Vadym Yermolaiev
news|

Interpol Names Anastasiia Berezovska as Prime Suspect in Monaco Bombing of Real Estate Tycoon Vadym Yermolaiev

Interpol has officially identified 39-year-old Ukrainian national Anastasiia Berezovska as the primary suspect in a high-profile parcel bombing in Monaco. The international police organization issued a Red Notice for her arrest on charges including attempted murder following an explosion that targeted Vadym Yermolaiev, a sanctioned multi-millionaire real estate developer. The attack, which occurred as victims were entering their residence, represents a rare and shocking breach of security in the affluent principality, drawing international attention to the manhunt for Berezovska. The explosion took place when a booby-trapped package detonated, causing severe injuries to Yermolaiev and his partner. A 13-year-old child who was present at the scene also sustained minor injuries. According to investigative reports, Berezovska was spotted fleeing the scene toward the neighboring French town of Beausoleil immediately after the blast. Prince Albert II of Monaco has since condemned the attack, labeling it a "heinous crime" and emphasizing the principality's commitment to bringing those responsible to justice. The investigation into the bombing has expanded across European borders, with authorities securing significant evidence from an apartment Berezovska had rented in Germany. This discovery suggests a level of premeditation and movement across the continent prior to the attack. Police are currently working to determine if the suspect acted alone or had accomplices in planning the hit on Yermolaiev, whose status as a sanctioned developer adds a layer of complexity to the potential motives behind the crime. As the manhunt continues, the incident has raised significant questions regarding the security of high-profile individuals within Monaco. Despite the intensified search and the Interpol Red Notice, Berezovska remains at large, with law enforcement agencies worldwide on high alert. The international cooperation surrounding the case signals the gravity of the charges and the determination of Monaco’s judicial authorities to ensure that the perpetrators of this rare act of urban violence face legal consequences.

Police Arrest Defilement Suspect During Live Broadcast on Lawson TV
news|

Police Arrest Defilement Suspect During Live Broadcast on Lawson TV

In a highly unusual and dramatic scene that has captured public attention, Ghana Police officers intervened during a live television broadcast on Lawson TV to arrest a man accused of defiling a 14-year-old minor. The incident occurred during a segment of the station's domestic issues program, which was originally intended to discuss the allegations but took a swift turn toward law enforcement action. Viewers watching the live stream witnessed the moment the suspect was confronted and subsequently taken into custody, highlighting the increasing intersection between media platforms and criminal justice in Ghana. The arrest followed serious allegations that the suspect had sexually assaulted a teenager. The program on Lawson TV, known for tackling sensitive social and domestic matters, had brought the man onto the set to address the claims. However, the presence of a police officer at the studio ensured that the legal process moved forward immediately. Snippets of the broadcast shared online show the suspect being apprehended as the host and production crew looked on, transforming the studio into a temporary crime scene processing area. This unconventional method of apprehension has sparked discussions regarding the role of the media in assisting law enforcement. While the live arrest ensures the suspect does not evade the law, it also raises questions about the protocol for such high-profile interventions. For the 14-year-old victim and her family, the swift action marks the beginning of formal legal proceedings. As the case moves from the television studio to the courtroom, the Ghana Police Service is expected to provide further updates on the investigation and the subsequent charges brought against the accused.

Ghanaian National Kwabena Kissi Sentenced for Bold £117,000 UK Bank Fraud Using G4S Uniform
news|

Ghanaian National Kwabena Kissi Sentenced for Bold £117,000 UK Bank Fraud Using G4S Uniform

Kwabena Kissi, a 40-year-old Ghanaian national, has been sentenced to prison in the United Kingdom following a sophisticated fraudulent heist that resulted in the theft of £117,000 from a Santander bank branch in Brixton, London. The sentencing, which occurred in April 2026, marks the conclusion of legal proceedings stemming from a high-stakes incident that took place on July 5, 2022. Kissi’s brazen approach to the crime, which involved a calculated impersonation of security personnel, has drawn significant attention due to the scale of the fraud and the deceptive methods employed.\n\nThe specifics of the heist reveal a high level of premeditation and the exploitation of professional trust. Kissi, who was previously employed by G4S Security Services, utilized his knowledge of industry protocols by donning his former employer's uniform and presenting a falsified identification card. This disguise allowed him to bypass standard security checks at the Santander branch, successfully deceiving staff into facilitating the transfer of £117,000. Despite his successful initial exit from the premises, Kissi's movements were meticulously documented by the bank's internal closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage, which ultimately became the cornerstone of the prosecution's case against him.\n\nKissi eventually pleaded guilty to charges of fraud by false representation, admitting to the bold scheme in court. The case highlights the critical importance of robust verification processes for physical security within the banking sector, particularly regarding former employees and contractor identification. While the sentencing provides a sense of legal accountability, it also serves as a stern warning regarding the potential for insider knowledge to be leveraged for criminal activities. The conviction underscores the effectiveness of modern surveillance and investigative techniques in tracking and apprehending individuals involved in high-value financial crimes across international borders.

Brian Boland
news|

Meta Under Scrutiny as BBC Investigation Finds Instagram Running Ads for Child Sexual Abuse Material in India

A BBC Eye investigation has uncovered that Instagram, the social media giant owned by Meta, has been running paid advertisements promoting child sexual abuse material (CSAM) in India. These advertisements, which utilized explicit and disturbing search terms like "rape video" and "child video," bypassed the platform's automated moderation systems to reach potential buyers. The investigation revealed that these ads served as gateways to Telegram channels where illicit content was sold for as little as 99 rupees (approximately $1), raising serious questions about the safety protocols and ethical responsibilities of major tech companies operating in the region. The investigation further highlighted a profound failure in Instagram’s moderation technology. An alias account created by the BBC, which followed seemingly harmless profiles, quickly began receiving sexualized advertisements, including those targeting minors. Most alarmingly, when certain ads were reported to Instagram’s review team, they were initially deemed not to violate community guidelines. Former Meta executive Brian Boland expressed grave concerns that the platform's algorithms prioritize engagement and revenue over user safety, allowing criminal exploitation to proliferate under the guise of legitimate advertising. In response to the findings, Meta acknowledged flaws in its detection systems and has since disabled several accounts and removed the flagged advertisements. However, the company continues to face criticism for its reliance on automated technology that failed to catch blatant violations. Meanwhile, Telegram reported removing hundreds of thousands of groups related to child abuse but remains under fire for being the primary marketplace for this content. Data from organizations like the Rati Foundation suggests a worrying trend, noting that a significant majority of reports regarding child sexual abuse material in India originate from Meta-owned platforms. The revelation has sparked calls for urgent legal and regulatory action in India. Madan Lokur, a retired justice of India’s Supreme Court, emphasized that Instagram could face legal consequences for profiting from such illegal activities. Experts and child protection advocates are now demanding better international cooperation, improved algorithmic transparency, and intelligence sharing to dismantle organized crime networks operating across social media. As scrutiny intensifies, the incident underscores the critical need for internet companies to overhaul their moderation practices to ensure the digital space is safe for children.

Extreme Heatwave Forces Closure of Washington D.C. State Fair as Record Temperatures Disrupt July Fourth Celebrations
news|

Extreme Heatwave Forces Closure of Washington D.C. State Fair as Record Temperatures Disrupt July Fourth Celebrations

An unprecedented and dangerous heatwave has forced the temporary closure of the Great American State Fair on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., as millions of Americans begin Fourth of July celebrations. With record-breaking temperatures affecting over 165 million people across the U.S. East Coast and Midwest, event organizers from Freedom 250 suspended activities to ensure public safety. The heatwave, which has pushed thermometers up to 106°F (41°C) in some areas, is part of a broader pattern of extreme weather that has disrupted holiday traditions ranging from small-town parades to major metropolitan concerts. The intensity of the heat has been historic in several major cities. Philadelphia recorded a blistering 103°F, while New York City faced its hottest day in over a decade. In Washington, D.C., the heat index reached levels high enough to prompt the National Weather Service to issue severe health warnings. While the State Fair organizers expressed hope to reopen later in the evening when conditions improved, many other outdoor events were simply canceled or postponed. These disruptions have hit a wide range of activities, including scheduled holiday parades and outdoor music performances, as authorities prioritize preventing heat-related illnesses. The weather crisis is not limited to the United States; similar conditions are scorching parts of Canada, where over 51,000 customers were left without electricity following storm-related power outages linked to atmospheric instability. Beyond the heat, the region faces the threat of severe thunderstorms and heightened humidity, which meteorologists warn could complicate the holiday weekend further. The early arrival and sheer intensity of this heatwave mirror recent extreme weather patterns observed in Europe, signaling a broader global trend of volatile summer temperatures and extreme atmospheric conditions. Experts and public health officials have linked the increasing frequency and severity of such heatwaves to climate change, emphasizing that these extreme events are no longer anomalies but part of an escalating trend. As the heat is projected to persist through the weekend and into the following week, authorities are urging the public to stay hydrated, seek shade, and monitor vulnerable individuals. The disruption of the Great American State Fair serves as a stark reminder of the growing impact of environmental factors on national traditions and the necessity of adaptive planning for public events.

The suspects
news|

Upper West Police Seize 50,000 Rounds of Ammunition Near Wa; Three Suspects Apprehended

The Upper West Regional Police Command has successfully intercepted a massive cache of 50,000 rounds of ammunition, marking a significant intervention for regional security. On June 29, 2026, police officers operating near the regional capital, Wa, stopped a commercial vehicle that was attempting to navigate an unapproved route. Upon a thorough inspection of the vehicle, authorities discovered 200 boxes of AA cartridges carefully concealed beneath a variety of other goods, indicating a deliberate attempt to smuggle the lethal cargo through the region. Following the discovery, the police arrested three suspects: Alhassan Issahaku, Iddrisu Mashood, and Alhaji Issahaku. According to ACP Peter Kamasa, the suspects are currently in custody and are assisting with ongoing investigations. The police are working to determine the origin of the ammunition, its intended destination, and whether there is a wider network of individuals involved in the illegal transportation of such a large quantity of munitions. ACP Kamasa praised the professionalism and vigilance of the officers involved in the operation, emphasizing that the interception is a testament to the command's dedication to maintaining law and order. He noted that the use of unapproved routes is a common tactic for illegal activities and reaffirmed the police's commitment to patrolling these areas more stringently to deter criminal activity. The command highlighted that such proactive measures are essential for regional stability. The Regional Police Command has also issued a call to the public for increased cooperation in crime prevention efforts. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities and provide any information that could assist in identifying the sources of illegal firearms and ammunition. As the investigation continues, the police have assured the public that they will remain steadfast in their mission to ensure the safety and security of all citizens in the Upper West Region.

Government and Security Forces Launch Massive Relief and Recovery Effort Following Fatal June 29 Floods
news|

Government and Security Forces Launch Massive Relief and Recovery Effort Following Fatal June 29 Floods

Ghana has entered a critical recovery phase following devastating floods on June 29 that left at least two people dead and caused widespread displacement across seven regions. The bodies of the two victims were recovered on July 2 at Adakope, near Weija, where local authorities attributed the tragedy to inadequate drainage systems and heavy rainfall. In response, Minister Felix Kwakye Ofosu announced that the government has commenced a massive distribution of emergency relief items, including food, clean water, medical supplies, and shelter materials. While Greater Accra remains the hardest-hit area, distributions are being extended to critical districts in the Volta and Central Regions, with the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) leading the logistics and mobilization efforts. To alleviate the administrative and sanitary burdens on victims, various state agencies have introduced specialized support programs. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced an expedited one-week replacement process for passports lost or damaged in the floods, valid for applications made between July 3 and July 17. Simultaneously, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), under Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has launched a month-long free refuse collection initiative. This program aims to clear the massive waste accumulation that often worsens flood conditions and poses health risks, supported by a dedicated WhatsApp line for residents to report sanitation hotspots. Security and policy organizations are also pivoting toward long-term mitigation to prevent a recurrence of the disaster. The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), led by Brigadier General Forster Okae-Yeboah, has warned that it will begin removing structures that block waterways as part of a phased recovery plan to restore drainage integrity. This stance is echoed by the Centre for Policy Scrutiny (CPS), which called for a comprehensive national strategy focused on urban planning and infrastructure resilience rather than just reactive relief. The CPS urged the government to fast-track aid while appealing to corporate entities to support humanitarian efforts for the displaced. The disaster has sparked a nationwide call for civic responsibility and improved urban management. High-profile figures, including the musician Stonebwoy and the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), have expressed condolences to the bereaved and urged citizens to stop dumping refuse in drains and building on unauthorized land. As recovery continues, the government has assured the public of regular updates and sustained support until all displaced families are rehoused. The situation remains a stark reminder of the urgent need for a permanent solution to Ghana's perennial drainage challenges to protect lives and property in future rainy seasons.

Ghana weather today: GMA forecasts morning drizzle, afternoon thunderstorms nationwide
news|

GMet Forecasts Nationwide Thunderstorms and Rain Following Incoming Rainstorm from Nigeria

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has issued a nationwide weather advisory predicting a sequence of morning drizzles, mist, and intensifying afternoon thunderstorms across the country. According to the agency, these shifting conditions are largely driven by an incoming rainstorm originating from Nigeria. Residents in coastal areas, including Accra and Takoradi, are expected to experience light rainfall and temperatures between 22°C and 30°C early in the day, while the northern and middle belts will likely see cloudy skies and mist before major weather developments begin in the afternoon. The forecast highlights a significant transition in the second half of the day, with thunderstorms expected to develop over the middle belt and northern regions, including Bolgatanga and Wa. These areas may face heightened chances of heavy rainfall and significant weather shifts. Meanwhile, inland temperatures are projected to range from 24°C to 34°C. GMet specifically noted that forest and mountainous regions will encounter mist and fog, which could significantly reduce visibility for motorists. In the south, intermittent light to moderate rainfall is anticipated to persist through the Oti and Volta regions, potentially leading to varying thunderstorm intensities by evening. In response to these developments, GMet has issued "Be Aware" and "Low Risk" alerts for several regions, emphasizing the potential for moderate impacts in coastal sectors. Marine users and those along the coastline have been specifically cautioned about rough sea conditions, necessitating extra care during maritime activities. Drivers are urged to exercise caution in areas prone to fog and mist, while the general public is advised to monitor weather updates closely to effectively plan travel and outdoor activities during this period of unpredictable weather.

Ghanaian TikToker Nana Yaw Announces Plan to Exit Same-Sex Relationship After Inheriting Partner's Estate
news|

Ghanaian TikToker Nana Yaw Announces Plan to Exit Same-Sex Relationship After Inheriting Partner's Estate

A 34-year-old Ghanaian TikToker based in Italy, identified as Nana Yaw, has sparked intense online discussion following his public declaration of intent to leave his current same-sex relationship to pursue a heterosexual lifestyle. The social media personality, who has built a following through his digital content, revealed that his decision is rooted in a desire to establish a traditional family. However, his announcement has drawn significant attention not just for the shift in his sexual orientation, but for the calculated timeline he has set for this transition. Nana Yaw disclosed that while his long-term goal is to marry a woman and father children, he does not plan to end his current partnership immediately. He is presently involved with a man over the age of 60, and he has explicitly stated that he intends to remain in the relationship for the foreseeable future to secure his financial interests. According to his public statements, the TikToker is waiting to inherit his partner’s properties and assets before making his exit, suggesting a pragmatic approach to his future economic stability. The revelation has triggered a wave of reactions across social media platforms, with many users debating the ethical implications of his strategy. While some observers view his transparency as a candid reflection of the hardships faced by migrants seeking financial security abroad, others have criticized the move as exploitative. The situation highlights the complex intersections of migration, personal identity, and the lengths to which some individuals go to ensure a comfortable life after years of living in the diaspora. As the story continues to circulate within Ghanaian digital communities, it underscores the evolving nature of public discourse surrounding sexuality and the pursuit of the "European dream." Nana Yaw's case serves as a provocative example of how social media is used to negotiate private lives and public personas. Whether his plans will come to fruition remains to be seen, but his story has already become a focal point for broader conversations on morality, wealth, and the social pressures facing Ghanaians living in Italy.

Ghana weather today: GMet forecasts rain, mist and thunderstorms across parts of the country
news|

GMet Forecasts Widespread Rain and Thunderstorms Across Ghana with Warnings for Commuters and Marine Users

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has issued a comprehensive weather warning for today, predicting a significant mix of rain, mist, and thunderstorms across various sectors of the country. According to the national forecaster, wet weather conditions are expected to persist from morning through late evening, marking a period of heightened atmospheric activity. The forecast highlights a shift in conditions that will likely impact daily routines, particularly for those in the coastal belt and the northern sectors of the country where the intensity of the weather systems is expected to be most pronounced as the day progresses. Detailed projections indicate that light to moderate rainfall will be concentrated along the coastline and within specific communities in the Oti Region throughout the day. As the afternoon unfolds, atmospheric instability is expected to trigger thunderstorms across the middle belt and the northern regions. Coastal areas, particularly within the Greater Accra and Volta Regions, are likely to experience moderate weather impacts. While other parts of the country face a generally lower risk of severe weather, GMet emphasizes that the scattered nature of these systems requires residents to remain vigilant and prepared for sudden changes in local conditions. Beyond rainfall, the agency has raised concerns regarding visibility and maritime safety. Dense mist and fog patches are anticipated in forested and mountainous areas during the early hours, potentially creating hazardous driving conditions for commuters. Furthermore, marine users are advised to exercise extreme caution as rough sea conditions are expected to accompany the prevailing weather patterns. With temperatures projected to fluctuate between a minimum of 23°C and a maximum of 34°C, GMet encourages the public to monitor official updates and plan travel or outdoor activities with these variable conditions in mind to ensure personal safety and minimize disruptions.