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.

Legal Aid Commission targets 20,000 people with mobile legal clinics
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Legal Aid Commission targets 20,000 people with mobile legal clinics

The Legal Aid Commission of Ghana has officially launched its 2026 Legal Aid Week, themed "Justice at Your Doorstep," with a target of reaching 20,000 individuals nationwide. Running from October 12 to 16, the initiative aims to provide free legal consultations and human rights education to vulnerable citizens. By moving its services from traditional offices to high-traffic public spaces, the Commission intends to break down the economic and geographical barriers that often prevent marginalized groups from seeking legal assistance. The centerpiece of this year's program is the deployment of mobile legal clinics at major markets and transportation hubs. Key locations identified for these clinics include Kasoa Market, Tema Station, and Kaneshie Market in the Greater Accra Region, as well as the Techiman main lorry terminal in the Bono East Region. These mobile units allow traders, commercial drivers, and other community members to engage in direct consultations with lawyers, receive education on their fundamental rights, and access Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) services. During the launch, the Executive Director of the Legal Aid Commission, Mr. Edmund Amarkwei Foley, addressed the critical operational challenges facing the institution. He revealed a significant shortage of legal personnel, noting that only 45 out of the Commission's 185 total staff members are qualified legal practitioners. This shortage is particularly acute in rural areas, where the need for legal aid is often greatest but the presence of lawyers is minimal. Mr. Foley used the occasion to appeal for government approval to recruit additional legal staff to bolster the Commission’s capacity. The "Justice at Your Doorstep" initiative has been met with positive feedback from initial beneficiaries, many of whom noted that the presence of lawyers in familiar surroundings like markets makes legal services feel more accessible and less intimidating. The Commission emphasizes that access to justice is a fundamental right that should not be restricted by a person's financial standing. The successful rollout of the 2026 Legal Aid Week serves as a framework for the Commission’s broader goal of decentralizing legal support across all regions of Ghana.

An official press release from the Ghana Police Service Regional Public Affairs Unit in Accra, dated 12th October 2026. The document details a shooting incident at Ritz Junction involving a police officer and the subsequent arrest of the officer for causing injuries to two persons.
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General Sergeant Mathew Aboase arrested after Adenta Ritz Junction shooting

General Sergeant Mathew Aboase, an officer stationed at the Madina Police Station, has been arrested and placed in custody following a shooting incident at the Adenta Ritz junction on October 11, 2026. The incident resulted in injuries to two bystanders during a heated confrontation between the officer and members of the local taxi drivers' union. The Adenta-Abokobi Divisional Police Command has commenced a full investigation into the circumstances that led to the discharge of the officer's weapon. The confrontation reportedly began when Sergeant Aboase allegedly threatened drivers from the Ritz Junction Taxi Drivers Union with his service pistol. Witnesses indicate that a struggle ensued as those present attempted to disarm the officer to prevent potential violence. During the physical altercation, the pistol discharged, striking two individuals identified as Doe Asinyo and Gifty Nyimahen. Following the shooting, both victims were transported for medical attention. Doe Asinyo was treated and has since been discharged, while Gifty Nyimahen remains in the hospital for further observation and care. The police have officially retained the officer’s service pistol as evidence for their ongoing inquiries. Sergeant Aboase remains in police custody as investigators gather more information about the dispute and the subsequent accidental discharge. The police administration has assured the public of a thorough probe to ensure accountability, as the case highlights ongoing concerns regarding the conduct of armed officers in public spaces and the management of civilian disputes.

A man and a woman smile as they present a large ceremonial check for GH¢ 1,000,000 from Star Oil, donated to the CID. The man wears a blue Star Oil branded shirt, and a portrait of President John Dramani Mahama is visible on the office wall in the background.
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Star Oil Ghana donates GH₵1m for new police CID facility

Star Oil Ghana has presented a GH‵1 million donation to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service to support the construction of a new multi-purpose facility at its headquarters. The contribution is a significant boost for the GH‵11 million project, which aims to modernize the department's operations and improve its capacity to manage suspects and investigations. Once completed, the three-storey building will provide the CID with dedicated resources that have historically been lacking at the headquarters site. The Director-General of the CID, COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, expressed profound gratitude for the support, noting that the department currently lacks its own detention facility. This deficit has forced investigators to transport suspects to various police stations across the capital, contributing to overcrowding in those cells and complicating the investigative process. The new facility is designed to address these challenges by housing male and female detention cells, interrogation rooms, offices, a conference room, and a cafeteria. Philip Tieku, the Chief Executive Officer of Star Oil, emphasized that the donation is part of the company's commitment to national security and corporate social responsibility. With approximately 280 fuel stations operating across the country, Star Oil relies heavily on the efficiency of the police and the CID to maintain a safe environment for its business operations. Mr. Tieku highlighted that a well-equipped CID is essential for reducing crime and ensuring that investigative processes are handled with the necessary speed and professionalism. Construction of the facility, which is being handled by contractor David Mawuli of Delta Plus, is expected to take approximately 12 months to complete. While the project was initiated last year, it faced initial delays due to the rainy season but began construction in earnest during August. The partnership between Star Oil and the Ghana Police Service is seen as a vital example of private-sector support for strengthening law enforcement infrastructure in Ghana.

Two religious leaders smile while standing together indoors, ahead of the World Assemblies of God Congress in Ghana. The man on the left wears a white t-shirt branded for the event, while the man on the right wears a vibrant, patterned shirt.
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President John Mahama welcomes World Assemblies of God leaders to Accra

Ghana is set to host the 10th Triennial World Assemblies of God Congress, marking the first time the global event will be held on the African continent in the Fellowship’s 115-year history. President John Dramani Mahama recently met with the Executive Committee of the World Assemblies of God Fellowship to discuss preparations for the historic gathering, which begins on October 14, 2026. During the meeting, the President expressed his administration's commitment to ensuring the success of the congress and reflected on his personal affiliation with the church, promising full state support for the thousands of international delegates expected in the capital. The visiting delegation was led by the Global Chairman of the Fellowship, Rev. Dominic Yeo, and the General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God Ghana, Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam. Rev. Yeo praised Ghana’s pioneering role in Africa and described the selection of Accra as a recognition of the country's leadership within the global movement. Rev. Yeo, who arrived ahead of the congress to oversee final arrangements, emphasized that the gathering is viewed as a crucial moment for spiritual renewal and church expansion across the continent. The three-day event, running from October 14 to 16, will now be held at the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre. Rev. Wengam confirmed the change of venue from previous arrangements due to technical considerations at the original site. The congress schedule includes intensive morning sessions focused on the "MM33" global church growth goals, while the evening sessions will feature gospel rallies open to the public, with performances from notable local and international artists. As final preparations conclude, the host church has encouraged both local and international participants to engage fully in the spiritual activities planned for the session. The opening ceremony is expected to draw high-ranking dignitaries alongside President Mahama, signaling the national importance of the event. This 10th Triennial Congress represents a significant milestone for the Assemblies of God, highlighting the increasing influence of African leadership within the global pentecostal community.

State Housing Company sets October 15 deadline for illegal occupants
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State Housing Company sets October 15 deadline for illegal occupants

The State Housing Company (SHC) Limited has issued a final directive to all individuals and entities unlawfully occupying its lands and properties to vacate or regularize their status by October 15, 2026. This announcement, delivered by Deputy Managing Director Samuel Atukwei Quaye, signals the commencement of a comprehensive nationwide land audit and recovery exercise. The initiative is designed to reclaim encroached public assets and secure the necessary space for new housing developments aimed at addressing the national housing deficit. According to Mr. Quaye, this final notice follows the expiration of a 21-day ultimatum and several previous warnings that many unauthorized occupants failed to heed. Despite using multiple communication channels to encourage compliance, the SHC reported that many encroachers continued to occupy state land without authorization. The company is now prepared to take decisive enforcement actions. However, the Deputy Managing Director emphasized that the SHC remains open to those with legitimate claims or expired leases, urging them to contact the company immediately to resolve their legal status before the recovery phase begins. In executing the land audit, the SHC is collaborating with Inok Holding Limited to ensure the process is thorough and legally sound. The exercise targets not only physical encroachers but also those with outstanding ground rents or lapsed lease agreements. Mr. Quaye also issued a cautionary warning to prospective property buyers, advising them to verify ownership with the SHC before purchasing land. He stressed that the company would take immediate action to recover any state-owned property that had been unlawfully acquired by third parties. This recovery effort is part of a broader mandate to protect public assets and ensure that state lands are utilized for their intended purpose: the provision of organized residential housing. By reclaiming these territories, the SHC plans to roll out new projects and improve the overall management of existing estates. As the October 15 deadline approaches, the SHC has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the law and protecting state property for the benefit of all Ghanaians.

Bernard Antwi-Boasiako pleads not guilty to GH₵30m Exim Bank fraud
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Bernard Antwi-Boasiako pleads not guilty to GH₵30m Exim Bank fraud

Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, pleaded not guilty to five criminal charges at the Accra High Court on October 13, 2026. The charges are tied to an alleged GH₵30 million fraud case involving the Ghana Export-Import Bank (Exim Bank). The accused, who is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for a separate conviction, faces counts of defrauding by false pretence, money laundering, forgery, and intentionally causing financial loss to a public body. The prosecution alleges that in 2018, Antwi-Boasiako and a co-accused—who remains at large—conspired to defraud the state-owned bank by submitting forged documents to secure credit. These documents reportedly included a pro-forma invoice from EPSONS GHANA LIMITED intended for a large-scale farming project. The state contends that the project was never executed and that funds meant for Wontumi Farms Limited were subsequently diverted or misused. Representing the defendant, lawyer Samuel Atta Akyea argued that the case should be treated as a civil debt recovery matter rather than a criminal prosecution. Atta Akyea also disclosed that plea-bargaining negotiations with the state had recently collapsed because the proposed terms were unfavorable to his client. The defense maintains that the dispute centers on an unpaid loan and lacks the criminal intent required for the current charges. The presiding judge has adjourned the case to October 27, 2026, for a Case Management Conference. In the interim, the prosecution has been directed to file all necessary disclosures and witness statements within 14 days. While the defense continues to advocate for a civil settlement, the state is proceeding with the criminal trial regarding the substantial financial loss incurred by the public institution.

Ghana repatriates 120 Nigerians following Operation Cyberhunt
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Ghana repatriates 120 Nigerians following Operation Cyberhunt

Ghana has repatriated 120 Nigerian nationals after an intelligence-led crackdown on cybercrime and human trafficking networks. Minister of Communications Samuel Nartey George announced the completion of "Operation Cyberhunt," a multi-agency initiative involving the Cyber Security Authority, the Ghana Police Service, and international partners including the U.S. Department of Justice and United Kingdom authorities. The operation is part of a broader effort by President John Mahama’s administration to prevent the country from becoming a regional hub for digital fraud. The repatriated individuals were identified as victims of human trafficking who had been lured to Ghana and forced to work in scam centers. During the raid, which focused on locations such as Sasaabi in Accra, security forces seized 303 electronic devices, including laptops and smartphones. One vehicle reported stolen from Canada was also recovered. While the 120 trafficking victims have been returned to Nigeria, eight other individuals are currently in custody and facing prosecution for their involvement in the criminal activities. The U.S. Department of Justice, which collaborated on the "Joint Disruption Week" phase of the mission, reported that the operation had a global reach. The joint effort led to the removal of approximately 3.7 million fraudulent social media accounts and the identification of $11 million in freezeable funds linked to illicit activities. Major technology companies assisted law enforcement in dismantling the digital infrastructure used by the syndicates to target unsuspecting victims worldwide. Minister Sam George emphasized that the government remains vigilant in its fight against organized crime. He noted that the successful operation sends a strong signal to criminal elements that Ghana will not tolerate illegal activities within its borders. The Ministry plans to continue its collaboration with international security agencies to strengthen digital forensic capabilities and protect the integrity of the nation's communications space.

Yaw Gahornu jailed 20 years for defiling nine-year-old girl in Ofankor
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Yaw Gahornu jailed 20 years for defiling nine-year-old girl in Ofankor

Yaw Gahornu, an 87-year-old man, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison with hard labour for the repeated sexual abuse of a nine-year-old girl in Ofankor, Accra. The Gender-Based Violence Court delivered the verdict after finding Gahornu guilty on two counts of defilement. The sentence follows a trial that highlighted the gravity of child protection issues and the crucial role of community vigilance in securing justice for minors. The investigation, conducted by the Tesano Divisional Police Command, began after the victim’s mother discovered bloodstains on the child’s clothing. Upon questioning, the girl disclosed that Gahornu had subjected her to repeated sexual abuse between July and August 2026. The convict reportedly lured the child to his quarters and used death threats to ensure her silence, warning her of dire consequences if she spoke about the incidents to anyone. The prosecution’s case was strengthened by testimony from Gahornu’s own granddaughter, who witnessed the abuse and alerted the family. This disclosure led to immediate police involvement and subsequent medical examinations that corroborated the victim’s account. During the trial, the court considered the extreme vulnerability of the victim and the egregious breach of trust by an elderly member of the community. Following the sentencing, the Accra Regional Police Command welcomed the decision, emphasizing that the 20-year sentence serves as a firm deterrent to potential offenders. Police officials have urged the public to remain vigilant and report cases of child abuse promptly to the authorities. They reaffirmed their commitment to protecting children and ensuring that perpetrators of gender-based violence face the full rigours of the law.

Earl International Group reports 13 security guards seized by armed men
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Earl International Group reports 13 security guards seized by armed men

Earl International Group has released closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage documenting a significant security breach at its underground mining facility, where 13 private security guards were reportedly held hostage. The incident occurred on Thursday, October 8, 2026, when a group of armed individuals successfully infiltrated the mining site. The company’s decision to release the visual evidence highlights the severity of the confrontation and the threat posed to its operational staff during the breach. The mining firm has explicitly linked the attackers to Nanlamtaaba Enterprise, alleging that the armed group is associated with that entity. The footage provided by Earl International Group captures the progression of the invasion, showing the armed men as they moved through the site and secured the private guards. This evidence is intended to serve as a definitive record of the security failure and to assist in identifying those involved in the illegal takeover of the underground worksite. This development points to a serious escalation in local mining-related disputes, necessitating immediate attention from national security agencies. By making the footage public, Earl International Group is seeking to hold the perpetrators accountable and bring attention to the safety risks faced by private security contractors in the sector. As of the time of the report, further details regarding the current welfare of the guards or subsequent police action have not been confirmed by official sources.

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Anthony Appiah charged with defrauding woman of GH₵480,000

An Accra Circuit Court has commenced proceedings against Anthony Appiah, a 44-year-old businessman accused of defrauding a businesswoman of GH₵480,000. The accused appeared in court to face charges of defrauding by false pretences, following allegations that he unlawfully obtained the substantial sum from the complainant. The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding high-value financial disputes within the business community in the capital. During his appearance, Appiah pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him. The prosecution presented the framework of the case, alleging that the businessman used deceptive claims to secure the GH₵480,000. By entering a not guilty plea, the accused has signaled his intent to challenge the prosecution's version of events. This sets the stage for a legal process where the court will eventually have to weigh the evidence regarding the nature of the transaction between the two parties. The court's decision on the scheduling of subsequent hearings will dictate the next steps in this judicial process. As the case progresses, the prosecution is expected to provide further details and documentation to support the claim of false pretences. For now, the matter remains under the jurisdiction of the Accra Circuit Court, which will determine the veracity of the claims surrounding the missing GH₵480,000 and whether criminal intent was present in the business dealings.

Zonta Ghana calls for end to child marriage as 19% marry before 18
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Zonta Ghana calls for end to child marriage as 19% marry before 18

Zonta Ghana has used the occasion of the International Day of the Girl to demand intensified efforts to eliminate child marriage across the country. Commemorating the global event on October 11, the organization highlighted that approximately 19% of girls in Ghana are married before the age of 18. While this figure represents progress compared to the West African regional average of 37%, Zonta International emphasized that child marriage remains a critical barrier to achieving gender equality and empowering women by the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) deadline. Despite the downward trend in the prevalence of early marriage, the scale of the issue remains significant. Data from 2021 revealed that there were approximately 2.2 million child brides in Ghana, a statistic that underscores the urgency of the organization’s advocacy. Zonta Ghana argues that child marriage not only restricts a girl’s potential but also hampers national development by limiting educational and economic opportunities for a substantial portion of the population. The group stressed that meeting the targets of SDG 5 requires a more aggressive approach to protecting the rights of the girl child. To address these challenges, Zonta Clubs in Ghana are advocating for a two-pronged approach focusing on legal reform and education. The organization called for the government to ensure stronger enforcement of existing laws against underage marriage while simultaneously expanding educational programs that keep girls in school. By providing increased educational opportunities, Zonta believes girls can be better prepared to make informed decisions about their futures and contribute meaningfully to the country’s socio-economic growth. As celebrations for the International Day of the Girl conclude, the organization has called for a united front involving the government, civil society, and local communities. Zonta Ghana reiterated its commitment to shaping today’s girl for tomorrow’s future, noting that ending child marriage is a collective responsibility. The organization maintains that only through sustained advocacy and policy intervention can Ghana ensure that every girl is protected from the harmful impacts of early marriage and provided the platform to thrive.

A group of Ghanaian students from GHANASS are pictured receiving a certificate of participation at an awards ceremony. A man in a green t-shirt shakes hands with a lead student while others in their school uniforms look on and smile in front of a YAFAT backdrop.
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Ghana Senior High School wins agri-challenge with automated solar dryer

Team Gamma from Ghana Senior High School (GHANASS) has emerged as the winner of the 2026 Youth Agri-Innovation Challenge. The students secured the top prize after developing a sophisticated automated solar dryer designed to tackle the persistent issue of post-harvest losses in Ghana’s agricultural sector. The victory was announced during the AgriFair, an event organized by YAFAT to showcase youth-led solutions for sustainable farming and food security. The innovation developed by the GHANASS team addresses a critical gap in the agricultural value chain. In many parts of Ghana, farmers lose a significant portion of their harvest due to inadequate storage and processing facilities. The team’s solar dryer is specifically engineered to mitigate these losses by providing a controlled environment for moisture removal. Unlike traditional open-air drying, which exposes crops to dust, pests, and unpredictable weather, this automated system ensures a cleaner and more uniform drying process, thereby increasing the quality and market value of the produce. The solar-powered nature of the device makes it an ideal solution for off-grid farming communities. By removing the dependency on the national grid, the students have created a tool that is both accessible and environmentally friendly. The automation components further enhance the dryer’s utility, as sensors can monitor conditions to optimize drying times without constant manual supervision. This level of technology is often reserved for large-scale industrial equipment, but the students successfully adapted the concept into a format suitable for rural smallholder farmers. This achievement highlights the growing potential of Ghanaian youth to contribute to national development through technological innovation. Beyond the competition, Team Gamma’s project promotes environmental sustainability by leveraging renewable energy to solve practical economic problems. As Ghana continues to seek ways to modernize its agricultural sector, such student-led initiatives provide a blueprint for low-cost, effective interventions that can improve the livelihoods of farmers and reduce waste within the national food supply chain.