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.

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Queen Sonja removed from Norwegian Royal House list after King's death

Queen Sonja of Norway has been officially removed from the Royal House list and reclassified as a member of the broader royal family following the death of her husband, King Harald V. The 89-year-old former Queen Consort is no longer listed as a core member of the Royal House on the Norwegian court’s website. This administrative change marks a significant shift in the formal structure of the monarchy as the nation transitions to the reign of her son. Under the new classification, Sonja is now categorized within the "rest of the royal family" rather than the inner Royal House circle. A key consequence of this transition is that she will no longer hold the formal title of "Majesty." The Norwegian court has confirmed that the Royal House now consists exclusively of King Haakon VIII and his immediate family members, effectively narrowing the inner circle of the institution. The reorganization follows the passing of King Harald V in August, which initiated a period of change for the Nordic monarchy. While Queen Sonja remains a central figure in the royal lineage, her official status has been adjusted to reflect the current administrative reality under King Haakon VIII. This update provides clarity on the formal roles and titles within the royal household during this period of transition.

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Iranian armed forces claim responsibility for sea mine attack on supertanker

On October 13, the Iranian armed forces officially claimed responsibility for a sea mine attack on a supertanker navigating the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Iranian state media released video footage documenting the explosion, which occurred as part of a series of escalations against commercial shipping in the region. The incident has intensified concerns over the safety of one of the world's most critical maritime corridors for the global energy trade. The attack targeted a vessel traveling near the Omani coast, a path that Iranian authorities have recently characterized as illegal. Tehran has insisted that merchant ships should instead utilize shipping lanes along the Iranian coast, using military force to enforce its preference. Since the current conflict began at the end of February, Iran has frequently obstructed traffic through the strait through a combination of direct attacks and strategic threats, leading to a volatile environment for international commerce. In response to the heightened risk, the United States Navy has increased its operations in the area, providing escorts for merchant vessels to ensure the continuity of oil and natural gas shipments. The Strait of Hormuz has become a primary flashpoint in the ongoing war, with the U.S. military also conducting strikes against Iranian vessels in the past. As tensions remain high, international observers are monitoring the waterway closely for further disruptions that could impact global energy markets.

Cologne police seize robot for allegedly groping 16-year-old girl
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Cologne police seize robot for allegedly groping 16-year-old girl

German police in Cologne have confiscated a robot and launched an investigation into two teenagers after the machine allegedly made inappropriate physical contact with a 16-year-old girl. The incident occurred near a fast-food restaurant around midnight, leading to the seizure of the red and gold mechanical device which was later discovered by authorities in a vehicle belonging to one of the suspects. According to official reports, the robot approached the victim from behind and performed what police described as inappropriate thrusting motions. Authorities believe the teenagers may have been using a remote control to guide the robot's actions as part of a social media livestream. The investigation is currently focusing on whether the suspects intentionally manipulated the machine to harass the teenager for the purpose of generating online content. Following the incident, Cologne police issued a warning to the public against making potentially criminal comments on social media related to the case. While the use of robots in public spaces for entertainment or promotion is an increasing trend, this case highlights growing concerns regarding the misuse of remote-controlled technology for harassment. The confiscated robot remains in police custody as evidence as the criminal inquiry into the teenagers' conduct continues.

Two killed in Bonsa cemetery road accident
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Nissan Urvan bus crash at Bonsa cemetery kills two people

Two people were killed and ten others sustained injuries on October 12, 2026, following a collision between a Nissan Urvan bus and a trailer. The accident occurred on the Tarkwa-Takoradi highway, specifically in the vicinity of the Bonsa cemetery. The impact left the passenger bus significantly damaged, necessitating an immediate response from local emergency services and bystanders to assist the victims. Following the crash, the ten injured passengers were rescued from the wreckage and rushed to nearby hospitals for medical attention. The bodies of the two deceased individuals were retrieved from the scene and transferred to a local morgue for preservation and subsequent autopsy. Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims as they work to notify the affected families. In response to the incident, the regional Commander of the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) urged drivers to exercise greater caution and strictly adhere to safe driving practices. The Commander emphasized the importance of vigilance on major highways like the Tarkwa-Takoradi route to prevent similar tragedies. This accident highlights ongoing concerns regarding road safety and the need for motorists to comply with traffic regulations to ensure the safety of all road users.

Lydia Yaako Donkor warns athletes against sports human trafficking
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Lydia Yaako Donkor warns athletes against sports human trafficking

Lydia Yaako Donkor, the Director of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, has issued a stern warning to young Ghanaian athletes and their families regarding the rising threat of human trafficking within the sports industry. She revealed that criminal syndicates are increasingly targeting promising talent by offering fraudulent overseas opportunities, which often serve as a front for exploitation and illegal activities. The CID lead emphasized that these networks exploit the dreams of young people by promising them pathways to professional success that do not exist.\n\nThe CID Director explained that these criminal networks typically lure victims with the promise of lucrative football contracts or prestigious academic and athletic scholarships in foreign countries. Once the athletes or their families are hooked by these too-good-to-be-true offers, they find themselves ensnared in trafficking schemes. These false promises not only shatter the dreams of young sportspeople but also place them in significant physical and legal danger far from home. Victims are often left stranded in foreign jurisdictions without the support or resources they were promised.\n\nTo combat this trend, Donkor urged parents, coaches, and sports administrators to exercise extreme vigilance when approached with international sporting offers. She emphasized the necessity of conducting thorough background checks and verifying the authenticity of any contracts or scholarship letters through official channels and governing bodies. The police administration is calling for a collaborative effort among all stakeholders in the sports ecosystem to ensure that the aspirations of Ghana’s youth are not exploited by unscrupulous individuals who view young talent as a commodity.\n\nThis warning comes as part of a broader effort by the Ghana Police Service to address emerging forms of human trafficking that exploit the high ambitions of the nation’s youth. By raising public awareness and encouraging due diligence, the CID aims to disrupt the operations of these criminal syndicates before they can harm more individuals. Athletes and their guardians are strongly advised to consult with recognized sports authorities and legal professionals before committing to any international arrangements or signing any binding documents.

Abukari Alhassan Baba (left) receiving a citation from Abdul Mumin Ewuntomah (right), District Chief Executive for North East Gonja, at the awards
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Abdul Wahab Yumzaa Yakubu named Northern Regional Best Journalist

The Northern Regional branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has officially recognized Abdul Wahab Yumzaa Yakubu as the overall Best Journalist during a ceremony held in Tamale. Yakubu, who demonstrated exceptional performance across multiple beats, topped a list of ten media professionals honored for their outstanding contributions to journalism in the region during the 2025 awards cycle. The event served as a significant platform to celebrate the excellence of regional practitioners in various specialized fields. In addition to taking home the top prize, Yakubu was also recognized for his excellence in Education and Health reporting. The awards ceremony featured a diverse array of categories designed to acknowledge reporting that drives social change and community engagement. Among the other notable awardees was Abukari Alhassan Baba, who received the award for Best Reporter in Tourism and Culture. In total, ten journalists were celebrated for their work in sectors such as health, education, and culture, reflecting the significant impact of journalistic storytelling within the Northern Region. The event was held under the theme, "Empowering the Next Generation: The Role of the Media in Digital Skills, Innovation and Youth Opportunities." Keynote speakers at the ceremony emphasized the critical responsibility of the media in fostering community development and bridging the digital divide. They called for increased investment in youth development and skills enhancement, urging journalists to use their platforms to ensure young people can effectively access and compete within the global digital economy. The 2025 Northern Regional GJA Awards concluded with a call for the press to adapt to modern technological trends while maintaining high ethical standards. By spotlighting digital innovation and youth opportunities, the association aimed to inspire reporters to tackle regional challenges through innovative media solutions. The recognition of journalists like Yakubu underscores the continuing importance of rigorous, impactful reporting in promoting sustainable growth across the region.

Lands Commission launches online portal to conduct searches in 10 regions
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Lands Commission launches online portal to conduct searches in 10 regions

The Lands Commission of Ghana has officially launched an online portal across 10 regions, enabling prospective land buyers to conduct official searches and verify property details electronically. This initiative is designed to streamline the land acquisition process, reduce fraudulent transactions, and mitigate the persistent challenge of land litigation. Currently available in regions including Greater Accra and the newly created administrative areas, the digital service allows users to submit site plans and pay search fees via mobile money, with search reports delivered to applicants electronically. Acting Deputy Executive Secretary of the Commission, Raphael Hokey, emphasized that this digitization is a critical step in modernizing land administration and making records more accessible to the public. He noted that the move aims to facilitate easier land acquisition by allowing buyers to verify ownership before making any financial commitments. The portal is intended to provide a transparent alternative to the traditional, often cumbersome manual search processes that have historically been vulnerable to delays and manipulation. The Commission has also issued urgent guidelines for prospective buyers to navigate the complexities of Ghana's landownership system, particularly regarding customary and family lands. Hokey highlighted that poor record-keeping, unclear boundaries, and the lack of formal registration of allodial interests often lead to multiple claims over the same parcel. Buyers are strongly advised to perform thorough due diligence, which includes physical boundary inspections and formal verification of the seller’s legal authority, rather than relying solely on verbal assurances. To further combat intermediary fraud, the Lands Commission has established a dedicated complaints center for public inquiries and is encouraging direct dealings with its offices. The Commission is also advocating for customary landowners to document their interests and establish customary land secretariats to improve administrative clarity. These measures, combined with the new online portal, represent a comprehensive effort to strengthen land security and protect investors from the significant financial losses associated with disputed property titles.

SpaceX imposes 100 mph speed limits on Starlink usage in Ukraine
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SpaceX imposes 100 mph speed limits on Starlink usage in Ukraine

SpaceX has introduced a new speed restriction of 100 mph (160 km/h) on its Starlink satellite internet services used by the Ukrainian military. The sudden move, reported by Serhiy Beskrestnov, an adviser to President Volodymyr Zelensky, was implemented overnight without any prior notification to the Ukrainian government or military forces. These restrictions have immediately impacted critical frontline operations that rely on high-speed satellite data for real-time combat maneuvers. The implementation of these speed limits has reportedly crippled several aspects of Ukraine's defense strategy, particularly regarding drone operations. Military personnel use Starlink to guide unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and track targets with high precision. The new 100 mph limit makes it increasingly difficult to operate fast-moving equipment or maintain stable connections during high-velocity engagements, leading to less effective targeting and surveillance of Russian military assets. This disruption comes at a precarious time for Ukraine, as the country faces a renewed surge in Russian missile and drone attacks. Recent strikes have targeted major urban centers and critical infrastructure, leaving more than 600,000 people without electricity. The resulting power outages and casualties have put additional pressure on Ukrainian defense systems, which are now struggling to maintain situational awareness due to the unexpected connectivity hurdles. While Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence is currently probing the technical reasons and broader motivations behind the connection issues, SpaceX has not yet issued an official comment on the matter. The situation has raised significant alarms among military analysts about the reliability of private-sector technology in active war zones. As discussions regarding potential ceasefires and international military support continue, the vulnerability of Ukraine's data infrastructure remains a focal point for the Zelensky administration.

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French student shoots headteacher and teacher with rifle in Aubagne

French authorities have launched an investigation into attempted murder after a 14-year-old student shot his headteacher and another teacher at a school in Aubagne, southern France. The incident, which occurred on Friday, saw the teenager deploy a hunting rifle to wound the two staff members before being taken into custody. Both victims were quickly transported to a local hospital for treatment of injuries sustained to their lower limbs. According to investigators, the student managed to smuggle the weapon onto the school grounds by concealing the hunting rifle inside a guitar case. Once inside, he fired at least four shots, targeting the headteacher and the teacher. While the victims’ injuries are described as significant, they are not believed to be life-threatening. The local prosecutor stated that the teenager has so far refused to explain his actions, showing no intention of disclosing a motive for the attack. French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed his solidarity with the victims and the entire school community following the shooting. He also commended the faculty for their quick response, which authorities believe may have prevented further harm to other students and staff. Officials confirmed that the shooting appears to be an isolated incident and was not connected to any of the ongoing school protests currently taking place across various parts of France. The investigation remains ongoing as police work to determine how the minor gained access to the hunting rifle and whether there were any warning signs prior to the incident. Forensic teams have been processing the scene at the school, which was evacuated immediately following the gunfire. Counselors have been deployed to support students and staff traumatized by the event as the community grapples with the rare occurrence of school-based violence in the region.

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Houthi drone attack on Riyadh airport kills Pakistani national

A drone attack launched by Yemeni Houthi rebels on Riyadh’s King Khaled International Airport has resulted in the death of a Pakistani national and left 11 other civilians injured. The Iran-backed group claimed responsibility for the assault, which targeted critical infrastructure in the Saudi capital. This latest strike marks a significant escalation in regional hostilities and represents the second major attack attributed to the group in a two-day span. Following the attack, Saudi Arabia initiated a series of retaliatory airstrikes targeting Houthi positions in Yemen’s northern Saada province. According to Houthi military spokespersons, the group attempted to counter the Saudi response, claiming to have downed a Saudi drone during the operations. Meanwhile, intense fighting continues on the ground within Yemen, particularly in Taiz, where local government forces remain engaged in active combat with Houthi rebels. The international community, led by the R4 Group—comprising Turkey, Egypt, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia—has strongly condemned the assaults. In a joint statement, the group described the targeting of civilian airports as a violation of sovereignty and a direct threat to civilian safety. The R4 Group emphasized that such actions undermine regional stability and international law. This surge in violence follows a period of relative calm, highlighting the extreme fragility of previous truce agreements. The ongoing cycle of drone strikes and retaliatory aerial bombardments threatens to worsen the humanitarian crisis in Yemen, which has been devastated by years of conflict involving regional powers. The frequency of these attacks has raised urgent concerns regarding the safety of regional travel and the protection of non-combatant infrastructure.

Data Protection Commission clamps down on organisations breaching regulations, microfinance firm and health facility referred to police for prosecution
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Data Protection Commission refers two hospitals to police for prosecution

The Data Protection Commission (DPC) has referred two hospitals and a microfinance firm to the police for criminal prosecution following a compliance enforcement exercise in Accra. The move comes after the commission identified that these organisations were processing personal data while operating with expired data protection certificates. This enforcement action is part of the commission's intensified efforts to ensure that all entities handling sensitive information adhere strictly to the provisions of the Data Protection Act, 2012 (Act 843). During the inspection, the DPC enforcement team discovered that the health facilities and the microfinance company had failed to renew their annual certifications and were also in arrears regarding required regulatory fees. Beyond administrative lapses, the commission expressed concern that such non-compliance could compromise the privacy and security of individual data held by these institutions. The exercise highlighted that merely registering with the commission is insufficient; organisations must maintain active compliance and fulfill their ongoing data protection obligations to legally operate. The DPC has signaled that this enforcement initiative will be sustained and extended across various sectors to purge the system of non-compliant data controllers. Officials emphasized that under Act 843, the commission possesses the legal mandate to pursue prosecution against any entity found to be in breach of the law. Organisations nationwide are now being urged to audit their compliance status immediately to avoid legal repercussions, as the commission plans to continue its unannounced inspections to safeguard the personal data of Ghanaian citizens.

Kwesi Pratt Jnr backs ban on preaching in commercial vehicles
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Kwesi Pratt Jnr backs ban on preaching in commercial vehicles

Veteran journalist and Managing Editor of the Insight newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jnr, has declared his support for proposed restrictions on preaching and hawking in commercial vehicles. Speaking during a segment on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana, Pratt argued that the practice of unsolicited preaching in public transport imposes religious messages on a captive audience, often creating an environment of discomfort rather than spiritual enrichment. Pratt specifically criticized preachers who deliver frightening messages about road safety and prophecies of accidents during long journeys. He noted that travel is already a stressful experience for many, and being subjected to prophecies of "doom" only exacerbates the anxiety of passengers. He questioned the audacity of individuals who take it upon themselves to dictate the spiritual atmosphere of a shared bus, suggesting that such actions do not respect the psychological well-being of travellers. The veteran journalist grounded his stance in the 1992 Constitution, emphasizing that every Ghanaian has the right to freedom of conscience and the liberty to choose their own beliefs. He argued that forcing passengers to listen to a specific religious viewpoint violates these fundamental rights. According to Pratt, allowing diverse religious expressions in the confined space of a commercial vehicle could lead to confusion and conflict, especially when passengers belong to different faiths or hold no religious beliefs at all. In his concluding remarks, Pratt insisted that the rights of individual passengers to a peaceful and neutral journey must be upheld above the desires of preachers. He criticized those opposing the ban, suggesting that public transport should not be used as a platform for imposing personal beliefs on others. The debate continues to spark conversation across the country regarding the balance between religious freedom and the rights of citizens in shared public spaces.