Ghana News Roundup: 15-Year-Old Kidnapped in Northern Region, Students Arrested Over Viral Threat, and Fire in Koforidua

Ghana has recorded a series of significant security and safety incidents, ranging from a distressing abduction in the Northern Region to student unrest and fire outbreaks. In Kabulya, near Bimbilla, a 15-year-old boy named Ali Issah was kidnapped by armed men who stormed his family home. The attackers initially demanded money from the boy's father; when none was found, they tied up the teenager and took him away. The family, who are cattle herders, reported that the kidnappers later made contact to demand a ransom, specifically inquiring about their livestock. Due to the language used by the assailants, the family suspects local involvement and is making an urgent appeal to the police for Ali's safe return. In a separate law enforcement success, the Northern Region Police arrested 33-year-old Abdul Manan in Tamale. During an anti-drug operation, officials seized large quantities of Tramadol and other drugs from Manan's home and chemical shop, and he is currently assisting with investigations into illegal drug distribution networks. Meanwhile, the Ghana Police Service has taken firm action against school-based violence following a viral video showing a student at Ada Senior High Technical School threatening peers with a cutlass. The Tema Regional Police Command dispatched a patrol team in the early hours of May 22, 2026, leading to the arrest of four students—three 18-year-olds and one juvenile. Police authorities and school officials have emphasized the importance of peaceful dispute resolution and called for stricter parental supervision to ensure safety within educational institutions. In the Eastern Region, emergency services responded to a major fire that destroyed a six-bedroom house in Atekyem, Koforidua. While the Ghana National Fire Service arrived within twelve minutes of the call, the building was already heavily engulfed in flames. Firefighters managed to control the blaze and salvage some household items, but many belongings were lost. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were recorded. These incidents collectively underscore the ongoing need for public vigilance and robust emergency response systems. As police continue their investigations into the kidnapping and drug trafficking cases, fire officials are reinforcing the necessity of fire safety awareness to prevent future domestic disasters.