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.

President Mahama Receives Blessings in Cape Coast as Ghana Prepares to Bury Chief Supt Kwadwo Oppong (Rtd)
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President Mahama Receives Blessings in Cape Coast as Ghana Prepares to Bury Chief Supt Kwadwo Oppong (Rtd)

Former President John Dramani Mahama and his delegation were recently hosted by Madam Efe Amissah-Arthur, the mother of the late former Vice President Paa Kwesi Amissah-Arthur, at her residence in Cape Coast. In a poignant moment captured in a viral video, the matriarch of the Amissah-Arthur family offered fervent prayers for the former President, seeking divine guidance and success for him and his team. This high-profile visit underscores the enduring relationship between Mr. Mahama and the family of his former deputy, highlighting a significant moment of spiritual and emotional support amidst the former President's regional engagements. While the political sphere reflects on this gesture in Cape Coast, the nation also prepares to honor the life and service of another distinguished public servant, Chief Superintendent Kwadwo Oppong (Rtd). The Aduana and Bretuo families, alongside the Inspector General of Police (IGP), have formally announced the final funeral arrangements for the late senior officer, who passed away on February 1, 2026, at the Police Hospital. His death marked the end of a long career dedicated to the Ghana Police Service, leaving behind a legacy carried on by his seven children, several of whom currently serve in the police force and various government ministries. The funeral rites for Chief Supt Oppong are scheduled to commence with a wake-keeping on Friday, July 3, 2026, at Asante Akyem Kyekyebiase, near Konongo. A burial service will follow on the morning of Saturday, July 4, at the local Presbyterian Church of Ghana, with final funeral rites being held later that afternoon at the Kyekyebiase School Park. The retired officer is survived by his widow, Madam Agnes Stella Asante, a retired educationist, along with 35 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, representing a massive family tree spanning multiple sectors of Ghanaian professional life. These concurrent events—a former President seeking counsel and blessings from the mother of a late statesman, and the official transition of a veteran security officer—highlight a weekend of deep reflection and honor for those who have served the state. The thanksgiving service for Chief Supt Oppong will take place on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at the Presbyterian Church in Kyekyebiase, concluding a series of ceremonies that celebrate a life of discipline and public devotion. Together, these stories reflect the intersections of political legacy and community service that define Ghana's national narrative.

Kwabena Kissi Sentenced in UK for £117,000 Santander Bank Fraud Using Falsified G4S Identity
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Kwabena Kissi Sentenced in UK for £117,000 Santander Bank Fraud Using Falsified G4S Identity

Kwabena Kissi, a 40-year-old Ghanaian national, has been handed a prison sentence in the United Kingdom following a bold and sophisticated bank heist that resulted in the theft of £117,000. The sentencing, which took place in April 2026, concludes a legal process that began after Kissi targeted a Santander bank branch located in Brixton, London. The court proceedings highlighted a calculated attempt to exploit his former professional connections and specialized knowledge to bypass standard security protocols and deceive bank personnel. The incident occurred on July 5, 2022, when Kissi arrived at the bank dressed in the official uniform of G4S Security Services, his previous employer. Utilizing the guise of a legitimate security official, he also presented a fraudulent identification card to gain the trust of the bank's staff. This deceptive strategy allowed him to orchestrate the removal of the significant sum of money before any alarm could be raised. Despite the initial success of his plan, investigators were eventually able to utilize high-quality CCTV footage to identify and track him, leading to his eventual arrest and prosecution. During the court trial, Kissi pleaded guilty to charges of fraud by false representation, admitting to the calculated nature of the crime. His confession and the subsequent sentencing mark the end of a multi-year investigation into the high-value theft. The case has drawn significant attention due to the brazen nature of the heist and the specific use of a security uniform to facilitate financial crime. While the specific length of his prison term was not immediately detailed, the conviction serves as a firm conclusion to a case that has spanned nearly four years since the original crime was committed.

Ghana Police Arrest Man on Live Lawson TV Show Over Alleged Defilement of 14-Year-Old Minor
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Ghana Police Arrest Man on Live Lawson TV Show Over Alleged Defilement of 14-Year-Old Minor

In a dramatic and highly unusual turn of events, a live broadcast on Lawson TV was interrupted when a police officer moved in to arrest a man accused of defiling a 14-year-old girl. The incident occurred during a segment of a program focused on domestic issues on July 3, 2026. The live apprehension, captured in a snippet that has since circulated widely, showcased the moment law enforcement entered the studio to take the suspect into custody while the cameras were still rolling. The suspect, who was participating in the discussion regarding the allegations, appeared taken by surprise as the officer executed the arrest. The program on Lawson TV is known for tackling sensitive social topics, often involving personal disputes and community grievances. In this instance, the transition from media discussion to active law enforcement was immediate, as the officer acted on the specific charges involving a minor, which carries significant legal weight in Ghana. This public arrest has sparked a wave of reactions across the country, highlighting the intersection of media and the justice system. While the swift action by the police has been noted, the decision to carry out the apprehension during a live broadcast is rare. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the serious consequences associated with crimes against children, particularly defilement, which the Ghana Police Service and various human rights organizations have been working to combat through increased vigilance and public reporting. As the investigation continues, the suspect is expected to face legal proceedings in accordance with the law. The incident has also placed Lawson TV at the center of a national conversation regarding the role of media in facilitating justice and the protection of vulnerable minors. Further updates from law enforcement are anticipated as the case moves forward, emphasizing the commitment of the authorities to address domestic crimes and ensure accountability for alleged perpetrators.

Ghana weather today: GMA forecasts morning drizzle, afternoon thunderstorms nationwide
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Ghana Meteorological Agency Issues Nationwide Alert for Rainstorms and Afternoon Thunderstorms

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has issued a nationwide weather advisory forecasting a combination of morning drizzle, mist, and heavy afternoon thunderstorms across the country. The weather pattern, partially driven by an incoming rainstorm from Nigeria, is expected to bring varied conditions starting with light morning rain along the coast and significant mist over the middle belt. Coastal cities, including Accra and Takoradi, are likely to experience slight rain with temperatures peaking at 30°C, while inland regions may see temperatures rise to 33°C following early morning fog in forested and mountainous areas. As the day progresses, the focus of the weather activity will shift toward the middle belt and northern regions, where thunderstorms are expected to develop from late afternoon into the evening. Areas such as Bolgatanga and Wa are projected to face heightened chances of intense rainfall and thunder. The Oti Region and surrounding communities have also been flagged for intermittent light to moderate rainfall. GMet has categorized several regions under ‘Be Aware’ and ‘Low Risk’ alerts, indicating that while the overall risk remains manageable, residents should be prepared for localized weather disruptions. Beyond the rainfall, GMet has highlighted specific safety concerns for travelers and marine operators. Drivers in the forest and mountainous belts are urged to exercise caution as mist and fog are expected to significantly reduce visibility during the early hours. Furthermore, a warning has been issued for rough sea conditions, advising fishermen and other marine users to remain vigilant. With temperatures nationwide ranging between 22°C and 34°C, the public is encouraged to stay informed through official weather updates to better plan their travel and outdoor activities.

Brian Boland
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Meta Under Fire After Investigation Finds Instagram Ads Promoting Child Sexual Abuse Content in India

A BBC Eye investigation has uncovered a disturbing trend where Instagram, owned by Meta, served paid advertisements promoting child sexual abuse material (CSAM) to users in India. These advertisements utilized explicit search terms and linked directly to Telegram channels where illicit content was sold for as little as 99 rupees, or approximately 1 US dollar. Despite Meta's automated moderation systems designed to catch such content, the investigation revealed that several ads were not only approved but initially deemed not to violate community guidelines even after being flagged by researchers. The investigation detailed how alias accounts, upon following seemingly harmless profiles, were quickly served sexualized ads, some explicitly targeting minors. Critics, including former Meta executive Brian Boland, pointed out that the platform's algorithms often prioritize engagement and revenue over user safety, allowing criminal exploitation to flourish. While Telegram reported removing hundreds of thousands of groups related to child abuse, the investigation found that the bridge between Instagram's vast advertising reach and Telegram's encrypted channels remains a significant vulnerability in online safety. Legal and human rights experts have raised alarms over these findings. Madan Lokur, a retired justice of India’s Supreme Court, suggested that Instagram could face legal action for profiting from illegal activities. Furthermore, data from the Rati Foundation suggests that the majority of CSAM reports in India originate from Meta platforms. In response to the BBC’s findings, Meta acknowledged flaws in its detection systems and has since disabled the offending accounts and removed several advertisements. However, the incident has intensified calls for better international cooperation and more robust manual oversight to complement current automated moderation technologies.

Bloomberg via Getty Images Pedestrians carry umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun during high temperatures in Washington, DC
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Extreme Heat Disrupts US Independence Day Festivities as Great American State Fair Shuts Down

Extreme heat has forced the temporary closure of the Great American State Fair on the National Mall in Washington, DC, as a record-breaking heatwave sweeps across the United States at the start of the Fourth of July holiday weekend. With temperatures soaring above 100°F (38°C) and reaching as high as 106°F (41°C) in some areas, organizers were compelled to prioritize public safety by halting outdoor festivities. The heatwave, which is currently affecting over 165 million people across the East Coast and Midwest, has led to the widespread cancellation or rescheduling of numerous activities, including traditional parades and concerts that typically define the national independence celebrations. The event organizer, Freedom 250, announced that the fair would remain closed during the peak heat of the day, with plans to reopen in the evening as conditions improve. The National Weather Service has issued severe heat warnings, noting that the dangerous conditions are likely to persist throughout the weekend. In major urban centers, the impact is particularly acute; New York City has recorded its hottest day since 2012, while Philadelphia saw temperatures climb to 103°F. Public health officials have urged citizens to exercise extreme caution, as the combination of intense solar radiation and rising humidity poses significant heat-related health risks. Beyond the United States borders, the extreme weather pattern has also severely impacted parts of Canada, where intense heat led to hydroelectric power outages affecting over 51,000 customers. The situation is further complicated by forecasts of severe thunderstorms in some regions, which could potentially disrupt events even after temperatures begin to dip. Despite the scorching conditions, some high-profile gatherings are still slated to proceed, including an outdoor celebration hosted by President Trump, though officials continue to monitor the situation closely as weather alerts remain in place across the North American continent. Environmental experts and climate scientists point to this unprecedented weather pattern as further evidence of climate change, which is increasing the frequency and intensity of heatwaves globally. This current system follows unusual early summer temperature spikes in Europe, suggesting a broader trend of extreme weather disruption. As the holiday weekend continues, authorities emphasize that conditions may worsen before they improve, with extreme temperatures predicted to linger into the coming week. The temporary closure of the Great American State Fair serves as a stark reminder of the growing challenges climate-driven weather poses to national traditions and public safety.

The suspects
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Upper West Regional Police Command Intercepts 50,000 Rounds of Illegal Ammunition Near Wa; Three Arrested

The Upper West Regional Police Command has successfully intercepted a massive cache of ammunition and arrested three suspects in a significant security operation near Wa. On June 29, 2026, police officers stopped a commercial vehicle that was discovered to be transporting 50,000 rounds of ammunition, consisting of 200 boxes of AA cartridges. The seizure marks a major success for regional security forces in their ongoing efforts to curb the illegal movement of weaponry and maintain stability within the Upper West Region. According to ACP Peter Kamasa of the Regional Police Command, the ammunition was sophisticatedly concealed to evade detection. The illegal cargo was hidden beneath various other goods in the commercial vehicle, which was traveling via an unapproved or unauthorized route outside the regional capital. The vigilance of the officers during the operation led to the discovery during a thorough inspection, and the vehicle has since been impounded as part of the evidence for the state's case. Following the discovery, the police immediately arrested three individuals identified as Alhassan Issahaku, Iddrisu Mashood, and Alhaji Issahaku. The suspects are currently in police custody and are assisting with investigations to determine the origin of the ammunition and its intended destination. The Regional Police Command is working to identify any additional individuals or networks involved in the smuggling operation, emphasizing that they are committed to tracing the supply chain of these illegal materials. The Upper West Regional Police Command has commended the professionalism and dedication of the officers involved in the successful interception. ACP Kamasa reiterated the police force's unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents in the region. Furthermore, the authorities have appealed to the general public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing timely information to help combat crime and prevent the proliferation of illegal arms and ammunition.

Government Intensifies Relief and Recovery Efforts Following Deadly June 29 Flood Disaster Across Seven Regions
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Government Intensifies Relief and Recovery Efforts Following Deadly June 29 Flood Disaster Across Seven Regions

The Ghanaian government has launched a multi-agency response to support victims of the devastating floods that struck on June 29, affecting seven regions across the country. Tragedy was confirmed in the Greater Accra Region as the bodies of two individuals, believed to have been swept away by floodwaters, were recovered at Adakope near Weija on July 2. Minister of State Felix Kwakye Ofosu announced that emergency relief distribution began on July 1, targeting hard-hit municipalities including La Dade Kotopon, Ayawaso Central, and Korley Klottey. With the Greater Accra, Volta, and Central regions bearing the brunt of the disaster, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) is spearheading the delivery of essential supplies such as food, clean water, and medical aid to displaced families. Complementing the immediate humanitarian aid, various government ministries and local authorities have introduced specialized measures to assist recovery. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is offering an expedited one-week replacement service for passports lost or damaged in the floods, valid for applicants between July 3 and July 17. In the capital, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has initiated a month-long free refuse collection program. Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey explained that this effort aims to clear the massive waste accumulation that often exacerbates drainage blockages. To enhance efficiency, a dedicated WhatsApp reporting line has been established for residents to alert sanitation officers to problematic areas across the metropolis. Looking beyond immediate relief, the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and civil society groups are emphasizing the need for structural changes to prevent future occurrences. Brigadier General Forster Okae-Yeboah of the GAF stated that recovery will be a long-term process involving the systematic removal of structures obstructing waterways and the restoration of drainage systems. This sentiment was echoed by the Centre for Policy Scrutiny (CPS), which called for a comprehensive national strategy focused on urban planning and infrastructure resilience. High-profile figures including the musician Stonebwoy and organizations like the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) have also added their voices, urging citizens to stop dumping refuse in drains and calling for collective responsibility to maintain environmental hygiene as the nation begins the arduous task of rebuilding.

Philip Kwakye Demands Compensation After Double DNA Test Results Dispute Paternity of Wife’s Child
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Philip Kwakye Demands Compensation After Double DNA Test Results Dispute Paternity of Wife’s Child

Philip Kwakye, a Ghanaian national currently living and working in Italy, has initiated a demand for compensation from his wife, Elizabeth Boatemaa, following a series of DNA tests that have thrown the paternity of their child into question. The situation has unfolded into a complex family dispute after two independent biological tests concluded that Mr. Kwakye is not the biological father of the child in question. Despite these clinical results, Mrs. Boatemaa remains steadfast in her assertion that the child belongs to her husband, creating a significant impasse between scientific evidence and personal testimony. The background of the case reveals a common narrative of economic migration within Ghanaian families. Mr. Kwakye and Elizabeth were married in Ghana before he moved to Italy to seek better employment opportunities, with the primary goal of providing financial stability for his household. For years, Kwakye has been sending remittances to support his wife and the child he believed to be his. The revelation brought about by the DNA tests has not only strained the marital bond but has also raised questions regarding the transparency of their long-distance relationship. Seeking justice for what he perceives as a profound betrayal, Mr. Kwakye is now demanding that his wife compensate him for the emotional distress and the financial resources invested in the child’s upbringing over the years. The case has sparked broader conversations within the Ghanaian community regarding the reliability of DNA testing and the legal recourse available to men in similar paternity fraud cases. As the dispute remains unresolved, it highlights the delicate intersection of traditional family expectations, the realities of the diaspora experience, and the definitive role of modern forensic science in settling domestic grievances.

Ghana Police Service and Aduana Family Announce Funeral Rites for Retired Chief Superintendent Kwadwo Oppong
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Ghana Police Service and Aduana Family Announce Funeral Rites for Retired Chief Superintendent Kwadwo Oppong

The Aduana and Bretuo families, in collaboration with the Inspector General of Police (IGP), have formally announced the passing and funeral arrangements for Retired Chief Superintendent Kwadwo Oppong. The senior police officer passed away on February 1, 2026, at the Police Hospital in Accra, marking the end of a life dedicated to public service. His death has prompted a significant gathering of traditional leaders from the Asante Akyem area and the top hierarchy of the Ghana Police Service to honor a man whose legacy is deeply rooted in both community leadership and national security. Chief Supt Kwadwo Oppong (Rtd) is survived by his widow, Madam Agnes Stella Asante, a retired educationist, and seven children who have largely followed his path of professional excellence and public duty. Notably, three of his children continue his legacy within the Ghana Police Service: Superintendent Irene Serwaah Oppong, the District Commander for Gomoa Dominase; PW/Sergeant Doreen Oppong of the Tema Community 2 District; and L/cpl Eric Oppong based in Ajumako. His other children hold influential positions in the mining, renewable energy, and education sectors, as well as the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources. He also leaves behind a vast family including 35 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. The final funeral rites have been scheduled to take place in early July 2026 at Asante Akyem Kyekyebiase, near Konongo. The ceremonies will commence with a wake-keeping on Friday, July 3, followed by a burial service on the morning of Saturday, July 4, at the local Presbyterian Church of Ghana. The final funeral rites will be held later that afternoon at the Kyekyebiase School Park starting at 1:00 PM. The period of mourning will conclude with a thanksgiving service on Sunday, July 5, at the Presbyterian Church of Ghana in Kyekyebiase. The high-profile nature of the chief mourners reflects the late officer’s standing in both traditional and professional circles. Leading the funeral proceedings are Nana Afrifa Yamoah (Framoasehene), Nana Opuni Asiedu (Kontihene of Kyekyebiase), and Nana Osei Akuoko Juansa Manhene Kyidomhene, alongside the Inspector General of Police. Their collective involvement underscores the deep respect accorded to the deceased for his contributions to the police force and his ancestral heritage. The upcoming rites are expected to draw a large assembly of police personnel and community members paying their final respects.

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