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.

Nsawam High Court stops Osenase Homecoming over security risks
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Nsawam High Court stops Osenase Homecoming over security risks

The Nsawam High Court has issued a formal order prohibiting the Osenase Homecoming event, which was scheduled to take place from October 12 to 18, 2026. Presiding judge Justice Paul Oduro delivered the ruling following an urgent application by the Ghana Police Service, citing a substantial risk of a breach of the peace. The court determined that the planned festivities could exacerbate tensions stemming from a volatile and ongoing chieftaincy dispute within the Osenase community. In his judgment, Justice Oduro highlighted the organizers' failure to adhere to the legal requirements of the Public Order Act. The court found that the planners had neither notified the police nor secured a formal exemption from the notice requirement mandated by law. Although the organizers argued that the homecoming was primarily a charitable endeavor, Justice Oduro observed that the event’s details pointed toward a traditional celebration. He noted that such gatherings naturally attract large crowds, which, in the current atmospheric tension of Osenase, posed an unacceptable risk of violence between rival factions. The legal action taken by the Ghana Police Service was driven by concerns over public safety and limited security resources. Police representatives informed the court that the security agencies would struggle to contain any significant unrest should the event serve as a flashpoint for conflict. This security assessment aligned with previous measures taken by the local Municipal Security Committee, which had already imposed a ban on social activities in the area as a precautionary step against escalating the local chieftaincy crisis. This ruling serves as a significant reminder of the judicial system's role in maintaining order in communities divided by traditional leadership conflicts. By prioritizing public safety over the planned social gathering, the court has reinforced the necessity for strict compliance with the Public Order Act. For the people of Osenase, the cancellation of the week-long event signifies the continued social and developmental cost of the unresolved chieftaincy dispute that continues to loom over the town's public life.

Gideon Owusu sentenced to 18 months for stealing GH₵4,500 vehicle tape
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Gideon Owusu sentenced to 18 months for stealing GH₵4,500 vehicle tape

Gideon Owusu, a 24-year-old driver’s mate, has been handed an 18-month prison sentence by the Asante Akropong District Court following his conviction for unlawful damage and theft. The court delivered the judgment after Owusu was caught breaking into a vehicle in Abuakwa and stealing valuable equipment. The sentencing aims to serve as a deterrent to others engaged in similar criminal activities targeting private property. The incident occurred on October 9, 2026, when Owusu targeted a Mitsubishi pickup belonging to Adams Mohammed, the manager of Chemico Limited. The vehicle had been left unattended overnight, providing an opportunity for the convict to force entry. Police officers patrolling the area noticed the signs of a break-in and subsequently discovered Owusu still inside the vehicle, leading to his immediate apprehension. During the ensuing police investigation, Owusu confessed to the crimes. He admitted to damaging the interior of the pickup and stealing a car tape valued at GH₵4,500. His confession and the evidence gathered by the police formed the basis of the prosecution's case when he was arraigned before the district court. The 18-month custodial sentence reflects the court's stance on combined charges of theft and unlawful damage. By addressing both the financial loss of the stolen tape and the physical damage caused to the Mitsubishi pickup, the judicial decision underscores the legal consequences for petty theft and property interference in the Abuakwa area.

A wide-angle photograph showing a massive area of excavated reddish-brown earth and a pool of muddy water, likely a galamsey site undergoing reclamation. A bulldozer is seen working on the left side of the frame against a backdrop of dense tropical forest.
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Ghana Gold Board begins GH¢35m Tano Nimri Forest reclamation

The Ghana Gold Board has launched a GH¢35 million land reclamation project in the Tano Nimri Forest Reserve to restore areas devastated by illegal mining. Partnering with the Ghana Armed Forces Engineer Regiment, the initiative aims to rehabilitate 60 hectares of land within Compartment 161. This effort is designed to reverse the environmental degradation caused by years of illegal mining, focusing on protecting vital water resources and restoring the forest's ecological integrity. The project will utilize the technical expertise of the military’s engineering wing to address the physical hazards left behind by miners. Key activities include backfilling mining pits, stabilizing soil structures, and constructing specialized drainage channels. These measures are critical to preventing further erosion and mitigating the runoff of pollutants into the Tano River, which has faced significant ecological pressure since illegal mining intensified in the area between 2021 and 2022. Upon completion of the physical reclamation and landscape preparation, the site will be handed over to the Forestry Commission. The Commission will then lead reforestation efforts, planting indigenous tree species to ensure the long-term recovery of the forest’s natural habitat and biodiversity. This inter-agency cooperation highlights a strategic commitment to environmental stewardship and the restoration of Ghana’s ecological heritage.

Bismark Adu sentenced to 10 years for destroying GH₵315,000 property
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Bismark Adu sentenced to 10 years for destroying GH₵315,000 property

The Bekwai Circuit Court has sentenced Bismark Adu to 120 months in prison with hard labour after he was found guilty of causing extensive damage to property in Manso Akropong. The convict was charged with unlawful damage following an incident that left a couple with losses totaling GH₵315,000. The sentence, handed down this week, marks the conclusion of a case that began with a violent confrontation and ended in the near-total destruction of the victims' living quarters and personal savings. According to the facts presented in court, the incident began when Adu engaged in a heated dispute with the victims. The confrontation escalated when Adu used a machete to damage the door of the couple's apartment, causing initial structural damage. Shortly after this initial act of violence, the room was set on fire. The resulting blaze consumed personal belongings, household items, and a substantial amount of physical cash, all valued at GH₵315,000. Adu was apprehended by local authorities following the report of the fire and subsequently charged. Appearing before the court, Adu pleaded guilty with an explanation to the charges brought against him. Despite his attempt to provide context for his actions, the presiding judge determined that a 10-year custodial sentence was appropriate given the magnitude of the financial loss and the dangerous nature of the act. The court's decision emphasizes the legal consequences of arson and property damage, serving as a deterrent against the use of violence to resolve personal grievances. Adu has since been remanded to begin serving his term immediately.

Police arrest 16 suspects, recover 209 live cartridges at Gbane mining site
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Police arrest 16 suspects and seize 209 cartridges at Gbane mining site

The Upper East Regional Police Command, in a joint operation with military units, arrested 16 suspects at the Gbane mining site in the Talensi District on October 13, 2026. The security sweep was launched to restore order and address persistent tensions between local communities and mining enterprises in the area. During the operation, security forces recovered a significant cache of ammunition, suspected narcotics, and various pieces of mining equipment. According to details provided by the Police Public Affairs Unit, the items seized included a total of 209 live cartridges, with 104 specifically identified as live AA cartridges. Additionally, officers discovered 37 wraps of suspected Indian hemp. The arrests were the result of coordinated efforts, with a military contingent apprehending six of the suspects in a related incident at the site. The combined force also confiscated industrial equipment used by a local mining firm as part of their investigation into unauthorized activities and security breaches. All 16 suspects are currently in police custody and are assisting with ongoing investigations. The Upper East Regional Police Command has intensified patrols within the Gbane area to maintain public safety and prevent further clashes. Authorities indicated that the suspects will be processed for court once preliminary investigations are complete, as security agencies continue to monitor the volatile relationship between residents and mining firms in the region.

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

Abdul Wahab Yumzaa Yakubu emerged as the overall Best Journalist at the 2025 Northern Regional Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards ceremony held in Tamale. The prestigious event, which celebrates media excellence in northern Ghana, saw Yakubu recognized for his exceptional storytelling and journalistic integrity throughout the year. In addition to the top prize, Yakubu also claimed individual awards for his specialized reporting in the Education and Health categories, highlighting his versatility and commitment to covering vital social issues. The awards ceremony honored a total of ten journalists from various media houses, acknowledging their contributions to regional development through diligent information dissemination. Notable among the winners was Abukari Alhassan Baba, who was named the Best Reporter in Tourism and Culture. The recognition of these professionals underscores the critical role of the media in navigating the unique socio-economic landscape of the Northern Region and providing a platform for local voices. This year's celebration 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 event emphasized the media's responsibility in fostering a culture of innovation and digital literacy among the youth. They argued that journalists must look beyond traditional reporting styles to actively connect young people with the burgeoning opportunities within the global digital economy, using their platforms to drive economic empowerment. The event concluded with a call for sustained investment in the media sector to ensure that practitioners have the resources and training required to meet modern technological challenges. GJA leadership encouraged the award winners and their peers to remain steadfast in their role as the voice of the people while leveraging new media tools to reach a wider audience. The success of journalists like Yakubu serves as a benchmark for the next generation of media professionals committed to driving positive change in northern Ghana.

Hold on, don't execute judgment directing promotion of 40 police chief inspectors until appeal process is complete - Supreme Court
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Supreme Court stays order to promote 40 police chief inspectors

The Supreme Court has granted a stay of execution on a Court of Appeal judgment that ordered the promotion of 40 police chief inspectors to the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP). Presided over by Justice Gabriel Pwamang, the court ruled that the promotions must be put on hold to prevent administrative disruption while an appeal filed by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, and the Attorney-General is resolved. The decision effectively suspends the enforcement of a January 27, 2026, appellate ruling that had favoured the officers. The legal dispute originated from a 2021 special promotion exercise and amnesty program intended for officers holding university degrees. The 40 plaintiffs, led by Chief Inspector Christopher Okpattah, initiated legal action after they were excluded from the exercise while other colleagues, including some they claimed were junior to them, were elevated. Although their case was initially dismissed by the Kumasi High Court, the Court of Appeal later overturned that decision, prompting the current legal challenge from the police administration. In granting the stay, the Supreme Court noted that the potential for administrative chaos outweighed the inconvenience to the officers if the promotions were later found to be invalid. However, the delay has significant personal implications for the group. Legal representative Anne Kekeli Agbetsiafa highlighted that many of the affected officers are nearing retirement age, and one officer has already passed away during the protracted legal battle. Despite these setbacks, the legal team expressed hope that the final resolution would eventually go in their favour. The case is scheduled to return to the Supreme Court on October 29, 2026, for further proceedings. This ruling reflects ongoing complexities within the Ghana Police Service regarding personnel management and the application of internal promotion policies. Until the apex court delivers its final judgment on the IGP’s appeal, the status of the 40 chief inspectors remains unchanged within the police hierarchy.

SpaceX imposes speed restrictions on Starlink terminals in Ukraine
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SpaceX imposes speed restrictions on Starlink terminals in Ukraine

SpaceX has reportedly introduced new speed restrictions on its Starlink satellite internet terminals in Ukraine, significantly impacting the country’s military operations. According to Serhiy Beskrestnov, an adviser to President Volodymyr Zelensky, the service provider implemented connectivity limits of approximately 100 mph (160 km/h) overnight and without prior notification. These restrictions have directly disrupted the deployment of military drones, which are essential for Ukraine's defense strategies against invading Russian forces. The imposition of these speed caps has created immediate challenges for the Ukrainian Armed Forces, particularly in the guidance and tracking of targets. Drone operators rely on the high-speed, low-latency connectivity provided by Starlink to conduct precision strikes and surveillance. Beskrestnov noted that the lack of communication from SpaceX regarding these changes has hampered mission planning and execution, potentially leaving critical defense systems vulnerable during a period of intensified conflict. These connectivity issues emerge as Ukraine faces a surge in Russian missile and drone attacks targeting civilian and energy infrastructure. Recent strikes have resulted in over 600,000 citizens losing power and caused multiple casualties in major urban centers. The disruption to Starlink, which has been a backbone of Ukrainian communication since the start of the full-scale invasion, adds a layer of technical complication to an already strained humanitarian and military landscape. While the Ukrainian Defense Ministry has launched a formal investigation into the cause and extent of the connection problems, SpaceX has yet to provide an official statement or explanation for the policy shift. The situation has sparked renewed discussions regarding the reliance of national defense on commercial satellite providers. As Ukraine navigates ongoing ceasefire talks and seeks further military support from international allies, the stability of its communication network remains a pivotal factor in its continued resistance.

Three shirtless young men are shown from behind, apparently in police custody following a cybercrime crackdown in Ghana. The individuals exhibit visible marks on their backs and are standing in an outdoor area next to a white vehicle.
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Police arrest 19 in Sasaabi during $8.3m international cybercrime bust

Ghanaian authorities arrested 19 individuals in Sasaabi, a suburb of Accra, as part of a major international operation against online fraud and human trafficking. The bust, conducted during a "Joint Disruption Week," uncovered a syndicate responsible for an estimated $8.3 million in scam losses. Working alongside international partners including the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) and the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), local law enforcement also identified 117 human trafficking victims and seized 303 electronic devices used in the criminal operations. The operation revealed a significant link between financial crime and human exploitation. Among those found at the Sasaabi centre were 117 trafficking victims, primarily Nigerian nationals, who are now awaiting repatriation to their home country. In addition to the human cost, investigators identified 89 specific victims of fraud, many of whom are based in the United Kingdom and the United States. The digital footprint of the network was so extensive that technology companies, including Meta, removed over 3.7 million fraudulent social media accounts linked to the group's activities. The crackdown extended beyond Ghana's borders, resulting in a total of 28 arrests across both Ghana and Nigeria. Beyond the arrests and account removals, authorities have identified more than $11 million in funds that could potentially be frozen. Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority and the NCA emphasized that the success of this mission highlights the critical role of international partnerships in dismantling sophisticated criminal networks that operate across jurisdictions. Authorities continue to urge the public to remain vigilant against investment scams as they work to repatriate the trafficking victims.

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Queen Sonja of Norway removed from Royal House list after King Harald's death

Queen Sonja of Norway, the widow of the late King Harald V, has been officially removed from the list of members of the Royal House of Norway. Following a formal update by the Norwegian court, the 89-year-old former Queen Consort is now categorized under the section for the "rest of the royal family." This administrative shift marks a significant change in her official standing within the monarchy following the passing of her husband in August. As part of this reclassification, Queen Sonja will no longer be addressed with the formal title of "Majesty." The Norwegian court’s official records now list King Haakon VIII and his immediate family as the sole members of the Royal House. This restructuring clarifies the core active members of the reigning household, distinguishing the immediate family of the current monarch from the broader extended royal family. The transition follows the accession of King Haakon VIII to the throne. Under Norwegian royal protocol, the designation of the "Royal House" is specifically reserved for the monarch and the immediate line of succession. By moving to the "rest of the royal family" category, Sonja follows the established precedent for non-reigning members of the dynasty, despite her decades of service alongside King Harald V. While she remains a prominent and respected figure within the Norwegian royal lineage, her official duties and formal recognition have been adjusted to align with the new reign. The update to the court's website ensures that the official administrative structure of the monarchy accurately reflects the current status of its members under King Haakon VIII’s leadership.