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.

Ga Mantse Escapes Unhurt in Oti Region Crash as Fatal Accident Claims Two Lives on Ho-Aflao Highway
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Ga Mantse Escapes Unhurt in Oti Region Crash as Fatal Accident Claims Two Lives on Ho-Aflao Highway

The Ga State and the traditional leadership of Ghana have expressed profound relief following news that the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, survived a road accident unharmed in the early hours of Wednesday. The incident occurred around 2:00 am at Pai-Katanga in the Oti Region while the King and his entourage were returning to Accra from a private visit to the Northern Region. The King had been in Tamale at the invitation of the Yaa Naa, a visit intended to strengthen the historical and traditional ties between the Ga and Dagbon kingdoms. Reports from the palace and witnesses indicate that although the vehicle was involved in a crash, the Ga Mantse remains in stable condition and in high spirits. The Ghana Police Service responded promptly to the scene to provide security and assist the royal delegation. While the specific cause of the dawn accident has not been fully detailed, the quick response of emergency services ensured that the King and his party were secured. The news has been met with thanksgiving at the palace, as the traditional leader escaped without injury despite the potential severity of the dawn collision. In a separate and more tragic development, a road accident on the Ho–Aflao Highway in the Volta Region has resulted in two fatalities and 14 injuries. This crash involved a Ford Transit vehicle and a Honda Civic, which collided head-on when the driver of the Ford Transit attempted a dangerous overtaking maneuver. The impact of the collision left several passengers trapped within the wreckage, necessitating a swift rescue operation by the Ghana National Fire Service. Responders worked to extricate the victims and manage the scene, which saw temporary traffic disruptions as authorities worked to clear the highway. Emergency medical teams transported the 14 injured individuals to nearby hospitals for urgent treatment, while the bodies of the two deceased individuals were taken to the morgue. As of the latest reports, the identities of the deceased have not yet been released to the public as authorities seek to notify their next of kin. These two incidents, occurring in the Oti and Volta regions, underscore the persistent challenges of road safety on Ghana's highways, particularly during night travel and high-speed maneuvers like overtaking. Investigations into the exact causes of both accidents are currently being conducted by the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service.

Ashanti South Police Arrest Five After Intercepting Large Cache of Prohibited Drugs and Thwarting GH¢50,000 Bribe
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Ashanti South Police Arrest Five After Intercepting Large Cache of Prohibited Drugs and Thwarting GH¢50,000 Bribe

The Ashanti South Command of the Ghana Police Service has arrested five individuals following the interception of a significant quantity of prohibited drugs along the Obuasi–Dunkwa highway. The operation, which took place on February 13, 2026, at the Tweapease Police barrier, led to the discovery of high-dosage Tramadol and Tapentadol concealed within a commercial vehicle. This crackdown underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to dismantle illegal drug trafficking networks operating within the Ashanti Region and across the country. During a routine check, officers conducted a thorough search of a commercial bus driven by Joseph Nkrumah. The search yielded a substantial haul of controlled substances, including 257 packs of 50mg Tramadol, 58 packs of 250mg Tramadol, and 58 packs of 225mg Tapentadol. Upon questioning, the driver identified a local woman known as Perpetual as the owner of the illegal cargo. The precision of the interception highlights the effectiveness of police barriers in monitoring critical transit routes used for smuggling. The investigation took a dramatic turn the following day when Perpetual and three other female accomplices attempted to compromise the legal process. In a bold move to secure their release and halt the inquiry, the suspects allegedly offered the police officers a bribe of GH¢50,000. Refusing the illicit payment, the officers promptly apprehended the four women, adding bribery and interference with a police investigation to the initial drug-related charges. The Ghana Police Service has reiterated its unwavering commitment to maintaining public safety and combating the spread of prohibited drugs. By refusing the substantial bribe and proceeding with the arrests, the Ashanti South Command has sent a strong message regarding the integrity of the force. The five suspects remain in custody as investigations continue, with the police urging the public to provide information that could lead to further disruptions of the illegal drug trade in Ghana.

Tarkwa Farmer Sentenced to 18 Months for Destroying 68 Cocoa Trees
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Tarkwa Farmer Sentenced to 18 Months for Destroying 68 Cocoa Trees

A 25-year-old farmer, Samuel Asamoah, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison with hard labor for the unlawful destruction of 68 cocoa trees in the Tarkwa District. The ruling, delivered in April 2025, comes after Asamoah was found guilty of damaging the property of his colleague, Bukari Imoro, in the community of Huniso. The incident has drawn significant attention to the legal consequences of agricultural sabotage in a region heavily dependent on cocoa production. According to court proceedings, the complainant, Bukari Imoro, first grew suspicious of Asamoah’s activities after observing his behavior near the farm on multiple occasions. In April 2025, Asamoah visited the site and chopped down the maturing cocoa trees, causing substantial financial loss. Despite being summoned by village authorities to explain his actions, Asamoah refused to appear and instead issued threats of causing further destruction to Imoro's livelihood. This defiant stance led the complainant to lodge a formal report with the police on April 6, 2025, which ultimately resulted in the suspect’s arrest. During the trial, Asamoah pleaded guilty to the charges but failed to provide a clear motive for targeting his colleague’s farm. The court's decision to impose an 18-month sentence serves as a stern warning against the destruction of cash crops, which form the backbone of the local economy. For farmers like Bukari Imoro, the loss of dozens of cocoa trees represents a major setback, and the sentencing emphasizes the importance of protecting agricultural assets and resolving community disputes through the judicial system rather than through violence or destruction.

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Tarkwa Court Sentences 22-Year-Old Miner to Six Months Hard Labor for Fake Gold Fraud

The District Magistrate Court in Tarkwa has sentenced Kingsford Kwame Boadu, a 22-year-old miner, to six months of hard labor for his involvement in a gold-related fraud scheme. Boadu was found guilty of swindling a local businesswoman, Harriet Clement, out of GH¢3,700 by selling her counterfeit gold. The sentencing, which took place in October 2025, follows the convict's admission of guilt during police interrogations and court proceedings. The fraudulent transaction occurred in July 2025 when Boadu and an accomplice, identified as Papa Yaw, approached Harriet Clement with what they claimed to be genuine gold. After negotiating a price of GH¢3,700, the victim completed the purchase, only to discover later that the material she had bought was fake. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of gold-related scams in mining communities like Tarkwa, where unsuspecting buyers are frequently targeted by rogue operators. Following the discovery of the fraud, the victim and her husband took proactive steps to track down the culprit. Their efforts led to Boadu's location and subsequent arrest on August 12, 2025. While in police custody, Boadu confessed to the crime and named Papa Yaw as his partner in the scam. However, he was unable to provide sufficient information to help the authorities apprehend his accomplice, who remains at large and is currently being sought by the police. Legal experts and local authorities have noted that the six-month sentence serves as a deterrent to others who might consider engaging in similar fraudulent activities within the mining sector. The case underscores the importance of due diligence for individuals and businesses involved in the gold trade. As Boadu begins his sentence of hard labor, the police continue their investigation to locate Papa Yaw and bring him to justice for his role in the GH¢3,700 swindle.

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Outrage in Asante Mampong Over Grave Desecration Amid Broader Concerns of Ritualistic Activity

The residents of Asante Mampong in the Ashanti Region have been thrown into a state of shock and mourning following the gruesome desecration of several graves at the local public cemetery. The most harrowing discovery involved the remains of the late queen mother of the Frafra community, an 85-year-old woman whose grave was exhumed by unknown perpetrators. In an act that has sparked widespread fear of ritualistic motives, the queen mother's head was found severed and placed away from her body. Local officials, the cemetery’s gravedigger, and the deceased’s son have all expressed deep anguish, calling for a swift and thorough investigation into this unprecedented crime that has violated the peace of the dead and the sanctity of the community. This incident in Asante Mampong highlights a disturbing trend of suspected ritualistic activity that has left the township demanding increased security for their sacred grounds. The precision of the act suggests a targeted effort to obtain human remains for occult purposes, a practice that remains a significant concern across the country. Community leaders have emphasized that such sacrilege is entirely alien to their culture, and they are urging the police to track down the individuals responsible to prevent a recurrence and to provide closure to the grieving Frafra community. In a related cultural context, the fear of malevolent spiritual forces was recently highlighted by Nigerian gospel minister Nathaniel Bassey, who shared a personal encounter with a self-identified traditional spiritualist. Bassey recounted an incident on an expressway where an individual attempted to cast an "enchantment" on him while he was in his car. While this encounter ended without physical harm—Bassey credited his faith and the use of biblical verses such as "Touch not my anointed" for his protection—it underscores a broader societal preoccupation with "spiritual wickedness" and the perceived reality of ritualistic or malevolent spiritual practices in the region. While the tragic desecration in Asante Mampong represents a criminal act of body snatching and Bassey’s experience reflects a personal spiritual confrontation, both narratives point to the ongoing tension between traditional beliefs and modern security. For the residents of Asante Mampong, the immediate priority is justice and the physical protection of their ancestors. For the wider public, these stories serve as a reminder of the complex interplay between faith, security, and the persistent influence of ritualistic beliefs in West African society.

Accra Circuit Court Orders Businessman to Pay GH¢200,000 for Breach of Marriage Promise
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Accra Circuit Court Orders Businessman to Pay GH¢200,000 for Breach of Marriage Promise

An Accra Circuit Court has delivered a landmark ruling ordering a businessman, Vince Kontoh, to pay GH¢200,000 in damages to his former partner, Ms. Ernestina Torgbor, following the termination of their 11-year relationship. The court, presided over by Justice Sedinam Awo Kwadam, found that the defendant had breached a long-standing promise of marriage that had formed the basis of their union. This judgment highlights the judicial system's increasing willingness to recognize the emotional and financial stakes involved in long-term informal relationships and the legal consequences when such commitments are broken. The financial award is structured to address both the specific breach and the general distress caused to the plaintiff. Justice Kwadam awarded Ms. Torgbor GH¢150,000 specifically for the breach of promise to marry, alongside GH¢50,000 in general damages. Additionally, the court ordered that interest be applied to these amounts starting from February 16, ensuring that the plaintiff is compensated for the delay in receiving justice. The ruling also secured Ms. Torgbor's material interests, confirming her beneficial interest in a property located at East Legon and allowing her to retain ownership of a motor vehicle and an industrial blender acquired during the relationship. In a significant legal victory for the plaintiff, the court dismissed Mr. Kontoh’s attempt to file an ejectment claim against her. By rejecting the defendant's effort to remove Ms. Torgbor from their shared residence, the court underscored the principle of fairness in domestic arrangements where partners have lived together for over a decade. The presiding judge emphasized the gravity of informal marriage promises in modern Ghanaian society, noting that the law provides a pathway for redress when one party suffers significant life changes or financial detriment based on those unfulfilled promises. This case serves as a vital precedent for legal protections surrounding cohabitation and the "breach of promise" cause of action in Ghana. It signals to the public that long-term domestic partnerships carry inherent responsibilities that cannot be unilaterally discarded without addressing the welfare of the other partner. As legal experts analyze the implications, the verdict is expected to encourage individuals in similar situations to seek judicial intervention to protect their rights and interests when long-term commitments fail to culminate in formal marriage.

MTN Ghana and CalBank Partner for 2026 “Save A Life” Blood Donation Campaign Across 16 Regions
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MTN Ghana and CalBank Partner for 2026 “Save A Life” Blood Donation Campaign Across 16 Regions

MTN Ghana, in collaboration with CalBank, has officially launched the 2026 edition of its flagship “Save A Life” campaign. The initiative, which coincided with Valentine’s Day on February 14, involves a massive nationwide blood screening and donation drive aimed at replenishing the national blood supply. This year’s campaign is particularly significant as it marks 15 years of MTN’s sustained commitment to supporting the National Blood Bank and ensuring that healthcare facilities across Ghana have access to life-saving resources. The launch activities were highlighted by dedicated donation exercises in Sawla and Bole, setting the tone for a countrywide mobilization effort. To maximize the impact of the 2026 drive, the organizers have established 37 blood collection centers strategically distributed across all 16 regions of Ghana. In the Savannah Region specifically, the campaign has set an ambitious target of collecting at least 250 pints of blood during the initial phase. These efforts are being supported by local hospitals and various educational institutions to ensure clinical safety and efficiency. By decentralizing the collection process, MTN and CalBank aim to make it easier for citizens in both urban and rural communities to contribute to the national cause, addressing the chronic shortages often reported by the National Blood Service. A central focus of this year's campaign is the deliberate engagement of Senior High School (SHS) students. By involving the youth, the “Save A Life” initiative seeks to foster a spirit of patriotism and establish a lifelong culture of voluntary blood donation among the next generation. Organizers believe that educating students on the vital importance of blood donation today will secure the healthcare needs of the future. The campaign continues to invite wider community participation, encouraging Ghanaians to demonstrate “love” through the gift of blood, which remains a critical component in strengthening the country’s medical infrastructure and saving lives in emergency situations.

Strike at Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport Leaves Thousands of Passengers Stranded
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Strike at Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport Leaves Thousands of Passengers Stranded

A major strike at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi has brought operations to a near standstill, leaving thousands of passengers stranded and causing significant disruptions to both domestic and international flights. The industrial action, initiated by airport workers protesting for better pay and improved working conditions, has severely affected arrivals and departures at East Africa's busiest aviation hub. In response to the unfolding crisis, Kenya Airways and other carriers were forced to issue urgent travel advisories, warning travelers of extensive operational delays and advising them to verify their flight status before heading to the terminal. The scene at the airport has been described as chaotic, with many travelers unable to leave the terminals or obtain clear information regarding their scheduled flights. Among those caught in the disruption was Canadian tourist Trent Bryski, who reported being stranded outside the airport along with many others. Some families have also expressed concern about relatives stuck inside the terminals for extended periods without clear timelines for when flights might resume. The strike has not only grounded departing passengers but has also created a significant backlog of arriving flights, further complicating the logistical challenge for airport authorities. The current labor unrest follows a period of stalled negotiations between airport workers' representatives and the relevant authorities regarding labor conditions. Workers had previously issued a strike notice after failing to reach an agreement on improved pay structures and better welfare provisions for the staff who manage the critical infrastructure of the airport. The breakdown of these talks led to the current standoff, highlighting deep-seated frustrations within the aviation workforce over their treatment and remuneration. In response to the crisis, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has announced the implementation of contingency measures designed to minimize the impact on travelers and maintain essential services. While the authority has expressed its openness to further dialogue with the striking workers to resolve the impasse, the primary focus remains on restoring normal operations as quickly as possible. As negotiations continue, the broader implications for Kenya’s tourism and transport sectors remain a major concern, with authorities urging patience while they work toward a sustainable resolution with the labor unions.

NRSA Demands Urgent Safety Reforms After Fatal Tanker Explosion Near Nsawam
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NRSA Demands Urgent Safety Reforms After Fatal Tanker Explosion Near Nsawam

The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has issued an urgent call for a comprehensive overhaul of safety protocols within the petroleum transport sector following a devastating fuel tanker explosion near Nsawam. The tragic incident, which occurred at approximately 0430 hours on February 14, 2026, at Ntoaso, resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries after a fuel tanker lost control and detached from its tractor. The subsequent blast engulfed several nearby vehicles, prompting immediate intervention from emergency services and highlighting significant gaps in the transportation of hazardous substances across Ghana's road networks. In a strongly worded response to the disaster, the NRSA has directed Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) and bulk transport operators to implement stricter operational standards immediately. The Authority's recommendations include the enforcement of more rigorous vehicle maintenance schedules, enhanced training programs specifically designed for drivers handling volatile cargo, and stricter adherence to international hazardous goods regulations. By focusing on improved loading procedures and mandatory pre-trip inspections, the NRSA aims to mitigate the inherent risks associated with the high-volume transport of petroleum products. Beyond technical reforms, the Authority expressed deep concern regarding public behavior at accident scenes involving fuel tankers. The NRSA explicitly condemned the dangerous practice of siphoning fuel from fallen tankers, warning that such actions significantly increase the risk of mass casualty events. Motorists and local residents have been advised to maintain a safe distance from accident sites and to exercise extreme caution when navigating areas where hazardous materials have been compromised. The Authority emphasized that public safety must take precedence over the recovery of spilled products. While mourning the loss of life, the NRSA extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and commended the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) for their swift and professional response in containing the blaze. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the need for constant vigilance and emergency preparedness. Moving forward, the NRSA indicated that it will intensify its monitoring of transport operators to ensure that these safety reforms are not merely suggestions but strictly enforced mandates to prevent further avoidable tragedies on Ghanaian roads.

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Gospel Minister Nathaniel Bassey Details Failed 'Juju' Attack and Spiritual Confrontation

Renowned Nigerian gospel minister Nathaniel Bassey has shared a detailed account of a chilling encounter where a self-identified traditional spiritualist allegedly attempted to cast a spell on him. The incident occurred on an expressway while Bassey was engaged in a personal worship session inside his vehicle. According to the singer, the confrontation served as a real-world manifestation of spiritual conflict, highlighting his belief in divine protection against malevolent forces. The account has since drawn significant attention to the intersection of traditional spiritual practices and Christian faith in West Africa. Bassey recounted that the individual approached his car and knocked on the window before beginning to recite what he described as an enchantment aimed at manipulating or harming him. Rather than reacting with panic, the gospel minister responded by loudly proclaiming specific biblical verses to counter the perceived spiritual assault. He notably cited scriptures such as "Touch not my anointed and do my prophets no harm" and "There is no enchantment against Jacob, neither is there any divination against Israel." Bassey noted that the practitioner's efforts ultimately failed, which he attributed to the power of his faith and the spiritual state he was in at the time of the encounter. Reflecting on the aftermath of the event, Bassey expressed a sense of regret for not detaining the man and involving the police to handle the situation legally. However, he emphasized that his primary motivation for sharing the story was to highlight the reality of "spiritual wickedness" without glorifying evil. He concluded that the experience serves as a testimony to the efficacy of prayer and the importance of spiritual vigilance for believers. The narrative reinforces Bassey’s public image as a dedicated man of faith and provides a broader context for his audience regarding the perceived power of scriptural affirmations in overcoming adversity.

Ghana News Highlights: Landmark Breach of Marriage Promise Ruling and Grave Desecration Shocks Mampong
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Ghana News Highlights: Landmark Breach of Marriage Promise Ruling and Grave Desecration Shocks Mampong

Ghanaian society is currently reflecting on two significant yet distinct developments: a landmark judicial decision regarding the breach of marriage promises and a disturbing criminal act in the Ashanti Region. In Accra, a Circuit Court has affirmed the legal protections afforded to individuals in long-term relationships, while in Asante Mampong, residents are dealing with the aftermath of a grisly cemetery desecration. Both incidents have dominated local discussions, highlighting issues of justice, tradition, and community security. In the legal arena, Justice Sedinam Awo Kwadam has ordered businessman Vince Kontoh to pay GH¢200,000 in damages to Ms. Ernestina Torgbor after he ended their 11-year relationship. The court ruled that the termination constituted a breach of a promise to marry, awarding GH¢150,000 for the breach and GH¢50,000 in general damages. Additionally, the court recognized Ms. Torgbor’s beneficial interest in a residence at East Legon and allowed her to retain specific assets, including a vehicle and an industrial blender. This ruling is seen as a significant move in addressing the emotional and financial fallout of long-term informal unions. Simultaneously, a dark cloud hangs over Asante Mampong following the desecration of several graves, including that of the 85-year-old late queen mother of the Frafra community. In a shocking act that has raised suspicions of ritualistic activity, unknown perpetrators exhumed the queen mother’s remains and severed her head, leaving it away from the grave site. The community, led by grieving family members and the local gravedigger, has expressed deep outrage and distress. Local authorities are now under pressure to bolster security at public cemeteries and bring the perpetrators to justice for this unprecedented violation. These two stories, though different in nature, underscore the complexities of modern Ghanaian life. While the Accra court’s ruling provides a framework for legal recourse in personal domestic disputes, the events in Mampong serve as a grim reminder of the security challenges facing traditional institutions. As investigations continue in the Ashanti Region and the legal community analyzes the implications of the Kontoh case, both events highlight a collective demand for accountability and the preservation of dignity, whether in life or in death.

MTN Ghana and CalBank Partner for 15th Annual 'Save A Life' Blood Donation Campaign
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MTN Ghana and CalBank Partner for 15th Annual 'Save A Life' Blood Donation Campaign

MTN Ghana, in collaboration with CalBank, has officially launched the 2026 edition of its 'Save A Life' campaign, a nationwide blood donation and screening initiative held annually on Valentine’s Day. This year’s launch featured prominent activities in Sawla and Bole within the Savannah Region, continuing a 15-year tradition of corporate social responsibility aimed at addressing critical blood shortages in the country. The initiative was developed in response to urgent requests from the National Blood Bank to replenish its stocks and ensure a stable supply for medical emergencies across Ghana. The 2026 campaign has significantly scaled its operations, establishing 37 blood collection centers across all 16 regions of the country. In the Savannah Region specifically, organizers have set an ambitious target of collecting 250 pints of blood. To achieve this, the campaign is working closely with local hospitals and community leaders to facilitate a seamless donation process. This decentralized approach ensures that the impact of the drive is felt nationwide, particularly in areas where blood supplies are often most constrained. A key strategy for this year’s drive is the active engagement of senior high school students. By focusing on the youth, MTN Ghana and CalBank aim to foster a sense of patriotism and instill a lifelong culture of voluntary blood donation. The partners believe that encouraging students to participate not only helps meet immediate collection targets but also builds a sustainable foundation for the future of Ghana's healthcare system. Beyond schools, the campaign continues to invite the wider public to participate in the screening and donation exercises as a selfless gesture of love on Valentine’s Day. Over its 15-year history, the 'Save A Life' campaign has become a cornerstone of MTN’s health-focused interventions. By bridging the gap between the National Blood Bank and voluntary donors, the initiative plays a vital role in strengthening the resilience of the national healthcare infrastructure. As the collection centers continue their work throughout the region, the collaboration between the private sector and health authorities serves as a model for addressing public health challenges through sustained community engagement and corporate partnership.