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.

Ghana Intensifies Flood Mitigation as NADMO and Zoomlion Partner for Nationwide Drainage Desilting
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Ghana Intensifies Flood Mitigation as NADMO and Zoomlion Partner for Nationwide Drainage Desilting

As the rainy season peaks across Ghana, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has joined forces with private partners and local assemblies to ramp up flood prevention operations nationwide. These coordinated efforts aim to mitigate the recurring threats to lives and economic stability caused by heavy seasonal downpours. From large-scale dredging in the capital to urgent community appeals for infrastructure in the Ashanti and Bono regions, authorities are facing mounting pressure to address the country's drainage vulnerabilities. In the Greater Accra Region, a major collaboration between Zoomlion Ghana Limited, NADMO, and Dredge Masters Gh. Ltd commenced on June 17, focusing on high-risk areas including Teshie-Nungua and Achimota. This initiative prioritizes the desilting of choked drains and the extensive dredging of the Dakobi River to significantly enhance its stormwater capacity. Project officials have emphasized that these engineering efforts must be matched by public cooperation, particularly regarding responsible waste disposal, to prevent the immediate re-clogging of vital water channels after they are cleared. The urgency for better infrastructure is echoed in the Ashanti Region, where residents and business owners along the Santasi-Ahenema Kokoben road are making a desperate appeal for a permanent storm drainage system. Following recent rains that caused significant property damage, Michael Adubofour, CEO of Midland Industries, highlighted the historical danger of the area, citing past fatalities and loss of livelihood. In response, District Chief Executive Mrs. Grace Agyemang Asamoah has committed to engaging national authorities for a lasting construction intervention while urging residents to exercise extreme caution during the current weather window. Simultaneously, in the Wenchi Municipality of the Bono Region, NADMO Zonal Officer Yahaya Baro has issued a stern warning to the Municipal Assembly and traditional authorities. Following an inspection of flood-prone zones, Mr. Baro identified the deteriorating state of local residences and the dangerous trend of building on waterways. He called for an immediate halt to land allocation in high-risk areas, stressing that improved drainage infrastructure and strict adherence to urban planning regulations are non-negotiable if the municipality is to avoid future disasters and protect the property of its citizens.

Minister Armah-Kofi Buah Commissions Upgraded Seismic Network as Ghana Enhances National Disaster Monitoring
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Minister Armah-Kofi Buah Commissions Upgraded Seismic Network as Ghana Enhances National Disaster Monitoring

Ghana has significantly bolstered its disaster detection and response framework following the launch of an upgraded National Seismic Monitoring Network and the issuance of critical weather alerts. On June 16, 2026, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, officially commissioned the enhanced network under the auspices of the Ghana Geological Survey Authority (GGSA). This milestone initiative introduces cutting-edge technology for real-time seismic data transmission across the country, marking a pivotal shift in how Ghana identifies and manages earthquake risks. The upgrade involved the modernization of equipment at 20 of the nation's 21 seismic stations, ensuring a continuous stream of real-time data to central monitoring hubs. Minister Buah emphasized that the enhancement was necessitated by the proximity of critical national infrastructure to active fault systems. Dr. Prosper Akaba, the Director-General of the GGSA, noted that this technological leap allows for more accurate hazard assessments and faster response times. To complement these technical improvements, the government has announced stringent policy interventions, including mandatory seismic assessments for all new building permits and rigorous enforcement of the Ghana Building Code to safeguard lives and property from potential tremors. Alongside these seismic advancements, the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) continues to play a vital role in national safety through its real-time weather surveillance. In a recent urgent bulletin, GMet issued a thunderstorm alert for coastal and northern regions, warning of heavy rains and gusty winds. Using data from southeastern and northeastern borders, the agency predicted that rain-bearing clouds would sweep across the Volta, Greater Accra, and Eastern regions before moving toward the Upper East and Northeast. Residents were classified as facing moderate weather severity and were urged to avoid outdoor activities and seek updates via official channels. These combined efforts by the GGSA and GMet underscore a comprehensive national strategy to mitigate the impact of natural disasters. By integrating sophisticated earthquake monitoring with proactive meteorological warnings, the Ghanaian government aims to create a more resilient environment for both urban development and rural safety. Moving forward, the focus remains on the strict application of building regulations and the continuous improvement of data-driven early warning systems to ensure the public is well-protected against the unpredictable forces of nature.

Tema Regional Police Seize 56 Sacks of Suspected Indian Hemp; Two Arrested in Afienya Operation
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Tema Regional Police Seize 56 Sacks of Suspected Indian Hemp; Two Arrested in Afienya Operation

The Tema Regional Police Command has successfully intercepted a Howo tipper truck in Afienya, Greater Accra, carrying a massive haul of suspected Indian hemp. During the operation conducted on June 14, 2026, police officers arrested two individuals: 26-year-old driver Solomon Akuaku and his 31-year-old mate, James Tetteh. The arrest was the result of a coordinated, intelligence-led effort following a tip-off from the Volta Regional Police, who had tracked the vehicle's movement from Juapong before it entered the Tema region.\n\nUpon a thorough search of the intercepted vehicle, police discovered 56 maxi sacks containing approximately 4,480 individual parcels of the suspected narcotic. While one report initially cited 80 parcels, the presence of 56 maxi sacks aligns with the larger figure, which typically accounts for roughly 80 parcels per sack. During initial questioning, the suspects claimed that the cargo did not belong to them, but was being transported for an individual they identified as "Red," who was reportedly traveling ahead of the truck in a separate vehicle at the time of the interception.\n\nBoth Solomon Akuaku and James Tetteh remain in police custody and are assisting authorities with their ongoing investigations. The Tema Regional Police are actively working to locate and apprehend the alleged owner, "Red," and any other members of the trafficking syndicate. This successful operation underscores the importance of inter-regional police cooperation and intelligence sharing in the fight against organized crime and the movement of illegal substances across Ghana's borders.\n\nFollowing the seizure, the Ghana Police Service reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to combating drug trafficking and ensuring public safety. Law enforcement officials have encouraged the public to continue providing timely and accurate information to help identify and stop criminal activities within their communities. The intercepted truck and its contents are currently being held as evidence for the pending legal proceedings against the suspects.

Central East Regional Police Command Arrests Two Suspects in GH¢100,000 TikTok Vehicle Sale Fraud
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Central East Regional Police Command Arrests Two Suspects in GH¢100,000 TikTok Vehicle Sale Fraud

The Central East Regional Police Command has apprehended two individuals, Chidubem Oba Precious, 31, and Ama Mankye, 28, for their alleged involvement in a fraudulent online vehicle sale scheme. The suspects are accused of defrauding an unsuspecting buyer of GH¢100,323 through a sophisticated scam orchestrated on the social media platform TikTok. Following a complaint lodged on February 10, police investigations tracked the fraudulent activities back to the duo, leading to their arrest on June 12. The scheme involved the advertisement of a Jetour hybrid vehicle, priced at approximately US$8,800, which enticed the victim into a series of financial transactions. According to police reports, the victim initiated payments in late 2022 after engaging with the suspects via the social media advertisement. The fraudulent operation utilized fake documentation, including a forged bill of lading, to convince the buyer that the transaction was legitimate and that the vehicle was being processed for delivery. In total, the victim transferred GH¢100,323 into various bank accounts linked to the suspects. Investigation further revealed that the criminal network relied on these counterfeit documents and bank accounts to mask their identities and facilitate the illegal transfer of funds before the victim realized the vehicle did not exist. The suspects were subsequently arraigned before the Ofaakor Circuit Court. The court ordered Chidubem Oba Precious to be remanded in custody, while Ama Mankye was granted bail as proceedings continue. Despite these successful arrests, the police have identified a third accomplice, Theresa Ziam, who remains at large and is currently being pursued by authorities. The Central East Regional Police Command has issued a call to the general public, urging any other individuals who may have fallen victim to similar online vehicle scams to come forward and report their cases to assist in the ongoing investigation and the capture of the remaining suspect.

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Police Receive DNA Report in Trial of Two Suspects Charged with Murder of Immigration Officer Stephen King Amoah

The Adabraka District Court has received a significant update in the ongoing murder trial of Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) officer Stephen King Amoah. During a recent hearing, the prosecution, led by Chief Inspector Apeweh Achana, informed the court that the police have officially obtained the DNA report related to the case. Despite this progress, the trial has been briefly delayed as authorities await the full autopsy report, which is essential for finalizing the prosecution's docket. The two principal suspects, Bright Aweh and Thomas Zigah, have been remanded in custody while investigations continue. The case revolves around the tragic death of Mr. Amoah, whose partially burnt body was discovered in Accra in July 2025. The prosecution has leveled charges of conspiracy to commit murder and murder against Aweh and Zigah. The investigation points toward a motive rooted in a financial dispute, specifically a claimed transaction involving GH"500,000. Detectives reportedly uncovered a series of WhatsApp messages between the victim and Bright Aweh regarding this substantial sum, which initially raised suspicions about Aweh's involvement after he provided inconsistent accounts of his whereabouts and dealings. Further forensic evidence has bolstered the case against the accused. A search conducted at Bright Aweh’s residence led to the discovery of bloodstains and a weapon, which police believe were used in the commission of the crime. While Zigah was apprehended subsequent to Aweh’s arrest, the police are still actively pursuing a third suspect who is believed to be linked to the murder. The authorities have reiterated their commitment to tracking down all individuals involved in the conspiracy to ensure they face the full rigors of the law. The court has adjourned the proceedings to June 29, 2026, allowing the police a two-week window to finalize the investigative process and submit a duplicate docket to the Attorney-General’s Department for legal advice. This case continues to draw significant public interest, particularly within the security services, as the family of the late officer awaits justice. The upcoming submission to the Attorney-General will mark a critical step in transitioning the case from the district court to a higher court for a full trial.

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Trader 'Cocoa Krakye' Remanded by Accra Court Over GH¢400,000 Mitsubishi Montero Robbery

Emmanuel Yaw Duku, a 57-year-old trader also known by the aliases "Cocoa Krakye" and Obed Blankson, has been remanded into custody by an Accra Circuit Court for his alleged involvement in the robbery of a businessman. Duku is accused of conspiring with two accomplices, identified as Kofi and "Air Force," to steal a Mitsubishi Montero Station Wagon valued at GH¢400,000 from Joseph Bright Dankwah. While Duku has pleaded not guilty to the charges of conspiracy and robbery, the court ordered his remand as investigations into the criminal network continue. The prosecution's case details a calculated plot that began on June 26, 2025, when Duku allegedly contacted Mr. Dankwah under the guise of an interested buyer for the luxury vehicle. After building rapport, Duku lured the businessman to a meeting point near the Galilea Market. It was at this location that the trap was sprung; while Duku maintained his pretense, his accomplice Kofi reportedly launched a physical attack on Dankwah, allowing the group to seize the vehicle and flee the scene. The breakthrough in the case occurred nearly a year later, on April 20, 2026, when police apprehended Duku in connection with a separate car-snatching incident. During the subsequent investigation, authorities found evidence linking him to the robbery of Mr. Dankwah. Police revealed that Duku utilized a sophisticated method of operation involving several pre-registered SIM cards to conduct fraudulent activities and evade detection. Following his arrest and further interrogation, the stolen Mitsubishi Montero was successfully recovered on May 1, 2026. While Duku remains in legal custody, the Accra Circuit Court and local law enforcement are intensifying efforts to apprehend the two accomplices, Kofi and "Air Force," who remain at large. This case highlights a persistent trend of car-related crimes where criminals use deceptive buyer personas to target high-value assets. Authorities have reiterated the importance of public vigilance, advising citizens to conduct high-value transactions at secure locations, such as police stations, to prevent such violent encounters.

Emmanuel Arthur: 17-Year-Old Mfantsipim Student Found Dead in Apparent Suicide
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Emmanuel Arthur: 17-Year-Old Mfantsipim Student Found Dead in Apparent Suicide

The Central Regional Police Command has confirmed the tragic death of Emmanuel Arthur, a 17-year-old final-year student at Mfantsipim Senior High School, whose body was discovered in an uncompleted building in Cape Coast. The discovery, which occurred on June 11, 2026, has sent shockwaves through the school community and the wider Central Region. Authorities have preliminary declared the death a suicide, though comprehensive investigations are still underway to determine the exact circumstances and contributing factors that led to this incident. The grim discovery was made by a local carpenter who alerted the police after finding the body hanging in the abandoned structure. Identification was initially complicated by the body's state of decomposition, but investigators recovered a black backpack at the scene that provided essential clues. Inside the bag, they found a mock examination paper and other personal items that clearly linked the deceased to Mfantsipim School, allowing school authorities to assist in the formal identification process. Following the identification, the police promptly notified the family of the deceased. Due to the advanced state of decomposition, the body was released to the family for burial shortly after the necessary medical and forensic procedures were completed. The loss of a final-year student has raised significant concerns within the public and the school community regarding student welfare and the pressures associated with final examinations. Police investigations remain active as they seek to provide closure to the bereaved family.

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Emotional Silence and Marital Neglect: A Ghanaian Woman’s Struggle Highlights Communication Gaps in Modern Unions

A poignant account shared through GhanaWeb highlights a growing concern in modern marriages: the devastating impact of emotional silence and the breakdown of communication between spouses. A Ghanaian woman, currently two years into her marriage, has come forward to describe a home environment characterized by an "invisible" wall, where her husband remains largely uncommunicative despite her consistent efforts to foster a loving and interactive atmosphere. Her experience sheds light on the emotional toll that marital neglect can take on a spouse, transforming a partnership into a source of profound loneliness. The anonymous woman details a domestic reality where verbal interaction is strictly transactional, occurring primarily when the husband requires a specific service or item. This pattern of behavior stands in stark contrast to the husband’s outward display of affection toward their infant child, leaving the wife feeling sidelined and emotionally drained. She reports that while her husband maintains a relationship with their baby, his lack of engagement with her has led to feelings of invisibility and constant confusion regarding the stability and future of their union. The disparity between his role as a father and his role as a husband has created a confusing dynamic that complicates the path toward resolution. This situation underscores the critical role of emotional health and active communication in sustaining long-term relationships in Ghana. Experts often point out that when communication stops, the foundation of the marriage begins to erode, often leading to mental health struggles for the neglected partner. As the woman questions whether to persist in her efforts to save the marriage or accept her husband's silence as a sign of irreversible disinterest, her story serves as a call for more open dialogues regarding emotional support and conflict resolution within Ghanaian households. The case highlights the need for counseling and support systems that address the psychological impact of domestic silence.

Getty Images Journalist Roger Cook wearing a khaki shirt with is arms folded, looking at the camera.
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Award-Winning Investigative Journalist Roger Cook Dies at Age 83

Roger Cook, the formidable investigative journalist who transformed British television with his confrontational "doorstep" interview technique, has died at the age of 83. Known for his fearless approach to exposing injustice and criminal activity, Cook passed away peacefully following a brief illness. His career, which spanned several decades, reached its zenith with the long-running ITV series The Cook Report, where he became a household name for his relentless pursuit of wrongdoers across the globe. Born in New Zealand and raised in Australia, Cook relocated to the United Kingdom in the late 1960s, quickly establishing himself as a significant force in broadcast journalism. He is best remembered for The Cook Report, which aired from 1987 to 1999 and earned him a prestigious BAFTA special award. His signature style involved surprising suspects at their homes or offices—often capturing their shock on camera—as he demanded accountability for various social ills, including child abuse, illegal immigration, and corporate fraud. This bold reporting was not without personal risk; Cook often faced physical threats and injury during his investigations, a testament to his dedication to uncovering the truth. Beyond his television work, Cook was a prolific figure whose influence extended into literature and popular culture. He authored an autobiography titled Dangerous Ground, which detailed the high-stakes nature of his investigative work. His larger-than-life persona and distinctive reporting style made him a favorite subject for comedians, who frequently parodied his intense "doorstep" encounters. ITV, the network that hosted his most famous work, paid tribute to his legacy, noting his unparalleled contribution to investigative reporting and his role in exposing global injustices. As his family requests privacy during this time of mourning, the journalism community remembers Roger Cook as a pioneer who set a lasting standard for modern investigative techniques.

Tarkwa Landslide and Esiama Market Progress Highlight Critical Infrastructure and Utility Developments Across Ghana
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Tarkwa Landslide and Esiama Market Progress Highlight Critical Infrastructure and Utility Developments Across Ghana

Significant disruptions and infrastructural developments have taken center stage across several regions in Ghana this week, led by a major landslide in Tarkwa that has paralyzed local transportation. On Sunday, following heavy rainfall, a massive landslide occurred near Redeemer Hospital, depositing mud, rocks, and debris across the Ackon–Bogoso Junction road. The blockage left hundreds of motorists and commuters stranded for hours, forcing many to seek alternative routes at increased costs. While no injuries were reported, the incident has sparked urgent calls from residents for a long-term stabilization of the hillside to prevent future occurrences and protect local businesses reliant on this vital artery. In a more positive development for the Western Region, the Ellembelle District is preparing for a significant economic shift with the construction of the GH¢9 million Esiama Market Complex. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, announced that the project is approximately 80% complete and is expected to be finished by September 2026. Funded by statutory royalties from the Ghana National Gas Company Limited, the complex will feature 76 stores and a dedicated car park. The primary goal is to transform Esiama into a commercial hub while decongesting the Elubo-Agona Nkwanta highway by relocating traders and transport operators to a safer, more structured environment. District Chief Executive Joseph Armah Agyekum confirmed that MacWest Construction Limited took over the project following previous audit issues, and temporary measures have already been implemented to manage "pragyia" and "okada" traffic in the interim. Adding to the week's logistical challenges, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced a series of planned power interruptions for essential maintenance work scheduled between June 12 and June 14, 2026. The outages, which will typically run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, will affect communities across the Accra East, Ashanti, and Volta regions. Specific areas including Nanakrom and parts of UPSA in Accra, as well as New Edubiase and Tafo in the Ashanti Region, and Gakli and Dzodze in the Volta Region, should prepare for temporary loss of supply. ECG has apologized for the inconvenience, emphasizing that these maintenance exercises are crucial for ensuring the long-term reliability of the national grid. Together, these events underscore the ongoing challenges and progress within Ghana's national infrastructure. While the Tarkwa landslide serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of the nation’s road networks to extreme weather, the Esiama Market project represents a proactive approach to urban planning and economic growth. As authorities work to clear debris in Tarkwa and ECG personnel move to stabilize power delivery, the government and utility providers continue to balance immediate emergency responses with long-term developmental goals to improve the standard of living for all Ghanaians.

Ghana Water Limited Triggers Efutu Mining Arrests as Oti Landfill Protest Disrupts Waste Management
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Ghana Water Limited Triggers Efutu Mining Arrests as Oti Landfill Protest Disrupts Waste Management

The Central Regional Police Command has intensified its fight against illegal mining, recently apprehending three individuals engaged in illicit activities near Efutu, Cape Coast. This enforcement action followed a formal complaint lodged by Ghana Water Limited on June 8, highlighting the severe threat posed by galamsey to the region’s water security. During the operation, several miners managed to evade capture; however, the police successfully confiscated and destroyed significant quantities of mining equipment left behind at the site. The three suspects remain in custody as investigations continue, signaling a renewed commitment by the authorities to protect vital water sources from environmental degradation. Simultaneously, a separate crisis has unfolded in the Ashanti Region, where tricycle waste operators have staged a massive protest at the Oti Landfill site. The demonstrators are decrying the deteriorating conditions of the facility and frequent operational failures that have brought waste disposal services to a standstill. According to the operators, consistent equipment breakdowns have made it nearly impossible to offload refuse, leading to an alarming accumulation of waste along the Kaase-Kuwait stretch. This build-up has not only created a logistical nightmare for the waste collectors but has also sparked serious health and sanitation concerns among local residents who are now living in close proximity to uncollected refuse. These two incidents, though geographically distinct, underscore a broader national challenge regarding environmental management and the maintenance of essential public infrastructure. While the arrests in Efutu represent a critical step toward enforcing environmental laws and protecting the water supply, the situation at the Oti Landfill reveals the dire consequences of infrastructure neglect in the sanitation sector. In both cases, there is an urgent demand for government intervention—whether through stricter enforcement of mining regulations or the immediate repair and upgrade of waste management facilities—to prevent a total breakdown of public health and safety standards across the affected regions.

Graphic showing the location and height of “Skeleton Bridge” near Limeira in São Paulo state, Brazil. A map highlights Brazil and Limeira area, while a satellite image marks a “fall location” beside a road and bridge. Below, a diagram illustrates two people standing on the bridge and a dashed line indicating an approximate 40m (130ft) drop to the ground. Scale bars and source/branding labels are included.
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Fatal Extreme Sports Accidents Claim Lives of Yemen's 'Spider-Man' and Young Brazilian Woman

The global extreme sports community is in mourning following two separate fatal accidents that claimed the lives of a renowned Yemeni free-climber and a young woman in Brazil. These incidents, occurring in vastly different contexts, have reignited debates surrounding the inherent risks of daredevil stunts and the critical importance of safety protocols in high-risk recreational activities. While one victim was known for performing without safety gear, the other's death has been attributed to a catastrophic failure by professional instructors, leading to criminal investigations. In Yemen, 30-year-old Al-Qaqa Ibn Antar, popularly known as the "Spider-Man of Yemen," died after falling into the Hardah Dam volcanic crater. Known for his daring free-climbing stunts that garnered a significant social media following, Ibn Antar was attempting to scale the near-vertical walls of the crater without any safety equipment. Footage circulating online captured the moment he slipped and fell into the crater, which is a known tourist attraction due to its unique hot sulfur lake. Yemen's Civil Defence Authority later praised its water rescue team for successfully retrieving his body from a depth of 30 meters despite the challenging and treacherous conditions. Simultaneously, a tragedy in São Paulo, Brazil, claimed the life of 21-year-old Maria Eduarda Rodrigues de Freitas during a rope-jumping activity at the abandoned Skeleton Bridge. Unlike the Yemeni incident, this death resulted from a professional oversight where instructors allegedly failed to attach the required safety rope before the jump. De Freitas fell approximately 40 meters to her death, sparking immediate outrage and calls for accountability. Three men have since been arrested as police investigate potential homicide charges, while local officials have announced plans to sue the federal government over the inadequate management and safety of the bridge site. These two deaths highlight the varying degrees of risk in extreme sports, from the personal choice of free-climbing without equipment to the reliance on professional oversight in organized activities. As communities mourn the loss of these young lives, the incidents serve as a grim reminder of the thin margin for error in such pursuits. The legal proceedings in Brazil and the social media tributes for Ibn Antar reflect a shared demand for greater accountability and improved safety standards to prevent further tragedies in the world of extreme athletics.