News News from Ghana

The latest news news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

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Amur tiger kills man at Yorkshire Wildlife Park enclosure

A man in his 20s was fatally attacked by an Amur tiger at Yorkshire Wildlife Park on October 10, 2026. The incident occurred after the individual reportedly climbed into the enclosure belonging to the tiger, an animal identified as Altai. Emergency services were called to the scene immediately, but despite their efforts, the man was pronounced dead shortly after their arrival. Eyewitnesses provided startling details of the moments preceding the attack. According to reports from visitors, the man was seen dancing inside the tiger's territory and was heard telling the predator to "stop being naughty" just before it struck. Park officials have since confirmed that the tiger involved remains "safe and well" and will not be euthanized, as it acted naturally within its own environment. Following the tragedy, the park has been temporarily closed to the public to ensure that staff members receive necessary support and counseling. Local police have also intervened, cautioning the public against sharing or viewing footage of the attack that has begun to circulate on social media platforms. The park management emphasized that visitor and animal safety remains a top priority and that they are fully cooperating with the authorities. Yorkshire Wildlife Park expressed deep condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. While investigations into how the man accessed the enclosure are ongoing, the park maintained that there was no wider risk to the public during the event. The facility is expected to review its safety protocols as part of the formal inquiry into the incident.

General Sergeant Mathew Aboase arrested for Ritz Junction shooting
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General Sergeant Mathew Aboase arrested for Ritz Junction shooting

The Adenta-Abokobi Divisional Police Command has arrested General Sergeant Mathew Aboase following a shooting incident at Ritz Junction in Accra that left two people injured. The officer, who is stationed at the Madina Police Station, was taken into custody after his service pistol discharged during a heated confrontation with members of the local taxi drivers union on October 11, 2026. The victims, identified as Doe Asinyo and Gifty Nyimahen, were caught in the crossfire as the situation escalated in public. According to reports, the incident began when Sergeant Aboase became involved in a dispute with the Ritz Junction Taxi Drivers Union. During the altercation, the officer allegedly brandished his firearm and threatened the drivers. In an attempt to prevent potential violence, some of the drivers tried to disarm the officer. It was during this physical struggle that the weapon reportedly discharged accidentally, striking the two bystanders who were in the vicinity of the clash. Following the shooting, Doe Asinyo was treated for injuries and has since been discharged from the hospital. However, the second victim, Gifty Nyimahen, sustained injuries that required further treatment and she remains hospitalized. The police have retained the officer's service pistol as evidence while the investigation continues. Sergeant Aboase remains in custody as authorities look into the circumstances surrounding his conduct and the resulting injuries to the public.

The image depicts the devastating aftermath of a fire in a commercial area, likely in Kumasi, Ghana. Piles of charred debris and partially burnt clothing cover the ground while smoke still rises from the ruins. Residents and onlookers are seen walking through the site, surveying the extensive damage to the market stalls and nearby buildings.
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Tafo Moro Market fire destroys 35 stalls in Kumasi

A major fire at the Tafo Moro Market in Kumasi has destroyed 35 stalls, primarily targeting a specialized hub for the second-hand shoe trade. The incident occurred early Sunday in the Ashanti Region, prompting an immediate response from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS). While the blaze caused significant damage to merchandise and wooden structures, fire crews successfully prevented the flames from spreading to an additional 215 endangered stalls nearby. Investigations into the cause of the outbreak are currently underway. According to DOII Atta-Aheng Mensah, the Public Relations Officer for the GNFS, preliminary findings suggest the fire may be linked to the activities of a nearby food vendor. Officials are examining whether cooking activities or a neglected heat source ignited the blaze, which quickly engulfed the clustered trading units. This disaster marks the third significant commercial fire recorded in Kumasi within a span of just three days. The city has recently seen similar outbreaks at a mattress manufacturing company and a section of the Kumasi Central Market. The frequency of these incidents has sparked urgent concerns among local authorities and traders regarding fire prevention protocols and the overall safety of commercial hubs in the region. Traders at Tafo Moro Market are now counting their losses as the GNFS continues its probe into the exact origin of the fire. The recurring nature of these incidents has led to calls for stricter enforcement of fire safety measures, particularly for food vendors operating in close proximity to flammable goods. The GNFS is expected to provide a full report once the investigation is concluded to help prevent future occurrences in the city’s busy markets.

Kash Patel praises Ghana for role in $17 billion anti-scam operation
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Kash Patel praises Ghana for role in $17 billion anti-scam operation

FBI Director Kash Patel has officially recognized Ghana’s pivotal contribution to Operation Blackout, an international crackdown on fraudulent scam centers. The operation has seen substantial success, resulting in the seizure of approximately $17 billion and the arrest of hundreds of suspects across the globe. In Ghana alone, more than 130 individuals have been apprehended in connection with the illicit activities, highlighting the scale of the domestic enforcement effort. The acknowledgment from the FBI Director follows recent pushback from Ghanaian authorities regarding the narrative of the operation. Previously, the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) and the Minister of Communication expressed concern over how the effort was being characterized, emphasizing that the raids and arrests conducted within the country were primarily local in execution. Director Patel’s latest comments reaffirmed Ghana’s significant role, addressing those local concerns while noting the high level of cooperation between international and domestic agencies. Beyond the financial seizures and arrests, Operation Blackout has addressed severe humanitarian issues linked to digital fraud. The FBI reported that the initiative led to the rescue of thousands of trafficked individuals who were often forced to work in these scam centers under duress. Ghanaian authorities have used this success to highlight the nation's leadership in the fight against cybercrime, with the CSA noting that the operation's execution within Ghana’s borders demonstrates the strength of the country’s own security infrastructure. This collaboration marks a significant moment in security cooperation between Ghana and the United States. As global scam networks become increasingly complex, officials from both nations have signaled that such partnerships are essential for dismantling the infrastructure of transnational fraud. The successful execution of Operation Blackout is expected to serve as a benchmark for future joint operations targeting criminal syndicates operating within the West African sub-region.

US Trafficking Report: Ghana's Tier 1 ranking welcome, but more must be done – Challenging Heights
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Ghana earns Tier 1 ranking in 2026 US Trafficking in Persons Report

Ghana has been elevated to Tier 1 status in the 2026 U.S. Department of State Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report, marking a major milestone in the country's human rights efforts. This promotion indicates that the government has met the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking. Challenging Heights, a prominent anti-trafficking organization, welcomed the development as a significant achievement but cautioned that sustained effort is required to protect vulnerable populations, particularly children. Data from 2025 reveals that Ghana made substantial progress in enforcement and victim support. The country investigated 222 trafficking cases and initiated 212 prosecutions, resulting in 28 convictions. During the same period, authorities identified 2,331 victims of trafficking, including several foreign nationals. Dr. James Kofi Annan, Executive Director of Challenging Heights, noted that the ranking follows improvements in victim services funding and more structured identification processes across various sectors. Despite the improved ranking, advocates have identified several areas that require urgent attention to prevent a reversal of progress. Challenges such as limited shelter availability for survivors, cross-border trafficking, and child exploitation remain persistent issues. Challenging Heights emphasized that while the Tier 1 status is a cause for celebration, the judicial system must be further strengthened to ensure that more prosecutions lead to successful convictions of traffickers. Moving forward, human rights groups are calling on the government to increase financial investments in survivor resources and community-level prevention efforts. Challenging Heights, which has rescued over 3,000 children since 2005, urged the state to prioritize public education and enhance cooperation between government agencies and civil society. The organization stressed that maintaining this status will depend on the country's ability to provide robust support systems for the thousands of individuals still vulnerable to exploitation.

Saudi Arabia conducts retaliatory airstrikes on Yemen’s Sana’a airport
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Saudi Arabia conducts retaliatory airstrikes on Yemen’s Sana’a airport

Saudi Arabia has conducted airstrikes on the Sana’a airport in Yemen in response to a deadly missile attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The strike on the Saudi capital resulted in at least 12 fatalities and left more than 300 people injured. This surge in violence signals a significant escalation in the regional conflict and follows the breakdown of a long-standing informal ceasefire. The casualties in the Riyadh attack included citizens from several nations, including Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and the United States. Prince Abdul Aziz bin Salman, Saudi Arabia’s Energy Minister, has pledged a "serious response" to the targeting of the kingdom's aviation and energy infrastructure. While the Houthi movement described its actions as a reaction to Saudi military operations in Yemen, international observers have condemned the targeting of civilian facilities. The ongoing conflict is rooted in a civil war that began in 2014, during which the Houthi militia seized control of Sana’a and other key regions. Although an informal ceasefire had largely held for four years, its recent collapse has led to renewed heavy fighting. The Yemeni government, supported by Saudi aerial operations, is reportedly pursuing a new offensive to reclaim territory from the Houthi forces. This escalation has already begun to affect global markets, contributing to a rise in international oil prices. Saudi Arabia relies heavily on the Red Sea for its petroleum exports, and the continued threat to its shipping and energy infrastructure remains a major concern for global energy security. While the Houthis claim they do not intend to disrupt international trade, the intensification of attacks on Saudi vessels and airports has heightened regional tensions.

DVLA adds 6 local languages to driving test platform
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DVLA adds six local languages to driving test platform

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has officially introduced six Ghanaian local languages into its computer-based driving theory test platform. The initiative, announced by CEO Julius Neequaye Kotey on October 12, 2026, is specifically designed to assist applicants who face challenges with English literacy. By offering tests in Twi, Ga, Ewe, Dagbani, Nzema, and Hausa, the Authority aims to eliminate language barriers that have historically hindered some citizens from demonstrating their knowledge of road safety and traffic regulations. The system incorporates voice-over technology and a touchscreen interface, allowing candidates to listen to questions in their preferred language before selecting their answers. This transition to a multi-language format ensures that applicants can fully comprehend the nuances of road signs and safety protocols, which is critical for reducing accidents and improving overall driver competence on Ghanaian roads. Mr. Kotey highlighted that the software allows for a more inclusive licensing process, catering to a broader demographic of the population. In addition to the language support, the DVLA is implementing several digital service improvements to enhance the driver experience. This includes a new SMS notification system that will alert license holders of upcoming expiration dates at intervals of one month and two weeks. Future plans involve extending these automated reminders to vehicle roadworthiness renewals and the establishment of electronic libraries at DVLA offices, where drivers can access educational videos and refresher courses on road safety.

Attorney-General urges court to dismiss Kwabena Adu-Boahene's no-case plea
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Attorney-General urges court to dismiss Kwabena Adu-Boahene's no-case plea

The Attorney-General has formally requested the Accra High Court to reject a submission of no case filed by Kwabena Adu-Boahene, the former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau. The prosecution contends that it has presented sufficient evidence to establish a prima facie case against Adu-Boahene, his wife Angela Adjei Boateng, and their firm, Advantage Solutions Limited. The trio is facing trial for the alleged misappropriation of GH₵49.1 million, funds originally earmarked for the procurement of a national cybersecurity system. During the proceedings, the Attorney-General’s office argued that the testimony of four prosecution witnesses and accompanying documentary evidence decisively point toward the guilt of the accused. The state alleges that instead of acquiring the necessary cyber-defence software, the defendants diverted the public funds into private business ventures. The charges brought against them include conspiracy, theft, and money laundering, totaling 11 counts of financial misconduct. This push by the prosecution follows a defense submission made on September 25, 2026, where lawyers for Adu-Boahene argued that the state had failed to provide adequate evidence to support the charges. The defense specifically highlighted the absence of key witnesses, notably the late National Security Coordinator, Mr. Joshua Kyeremeh, claiming his testimony would have been vital to the case. They maintained that without such direct evidence, the accused should not be required to mount a formal defense. Presiding over the matter, the High Court is expected to deliver its ruling on the no-case submission on November 5, 2026. Should the court side with the Attorney-General and dismiss the application, the defendants will be required to open their defense and present their side of the story. Conversely, if the court finds that the prosecution failed to establish a basic case, the accused could be acquitted and discharged of all charges regarding the GH₵49.1 million.

Archbishop Charles Agyinasare warns Ghanaians against growing culture of lies
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Archbishop Charles Agyinasare warns Ghanaians against growing culture of lies

Archbishop Charles Agyinasare, the founder of Perez Chapel International, has expressed deep concern over what he describes as the normalization of dishonesty within Ghanaian society. During a sermon titled "The Venom of Falsehood – When Lies Become Weapons of Destruction," the Archbishop cautioned that the nation is increasingly adopting a "Kweku Ananse" persona, where cleverness is mistakenly measured by one's ability to evade the truth. He emphasized that this culture of deception is no longer confined to specific sectors but has permeated everyday interactions, eroding the foundation of national trust. The Archbishop highlighted the role of the family in this moral decline, noting that dishonesty often begins in the home with seemingly harmless lies told by parents to their children. He warned that when parents model deceit, they inadvertently teach the next generation that lying is an acceptable tool for navigating life's challenges. Drawing from the biblical narrative of Joseph and Potiphar’s wife, Agyinasare illustrated how false accusations can have catastrophic consequences, destroying reputations and relationships. He urged parents to be deliberate role models of integrity to break this cycle of falsehood. Addressing the digital age, Agyinasare specifically targeted the spread of misinformation and "fake news" on social media platforms. He challenged Ghanaians to move beyond mere regret when they discover they have shared false information, proposing a proactive "delete, retract, and apologize" approach. The Archbishop warned against the dangers of half-truths—the selective presentation of facts intended to mislead—and called for rigorous verification of all claims before they are shared publicly. He stressed that individuals must take personal responsibility for the accuracy of the information they propagate. To restore societal trust, the Archbishop called for a collective commitment to truthfulness in all forms of communication. He emphasized that correcting a misleading impression is a vital social responsibility that helps uphold the truth in society. By urging citizens to acknowledge their errors and inform recipients of inaccuracies, Agyinasare framed honesty as a necessary virtue for national stability. He concluded that only by confronting and rejecting the "venom of falsehood" can Ghanaians build a society rooted in genuine accountability and mutual respect.

Ewurabena Quartey describes knocking on mortuary doors as sign of respect
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Ewurabena Quartey describes knocking on mortuary doors as sign of respect

Ewurabena Quartey, a manager at Jabez Dominic Funeral Home, has explained the cultural and professional reasoning behind the practice of morticians knocking on doors before entering mortuaries. According to Quartey, this specific action is observed by several professionals in the field as a profound sign of respect toward the deceased individuals currently in their care. The practice serves to bridge the gap between the living and the dead, ensuring that the transition into the workspace is handled with solemnity and care. The manager noted that the symbolic act is intended to acknowledge the inherent dignity of those who have passed away. By knocking, morticians treat the mortuary space not merely as a storage facility but as a place of rest that requires a level of courtesy similar to that shown when entering the home of a living person. This ritual highlights a commitment to maintaining high ethical standards and sensitivity within the funeral service industry, where the professional focus remains on the humanity and value of the deceased. While not every mortuary follows this specific protocol, Quartey’s insights offer a glimpse into the specialized traditions that define the work of morticians in Ghana. The practice underscores a broader cultural reverence for the dead, suggesting that the responsibilities of a funeral home manager extend beyond technical tasks to include the preservation of honor and decorum. These small gestures of acknowledgment are presented as essential components of the compassionate care provided to both the deceased and their grieving families.

Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah urges promotion of Tabre Waterfalls for tourism
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Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah urges promotion of Tabre Waterfalls for tourism

Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah, a prominent Ghanaian media personality, has called on the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) to prioritize the development and promotion of the Tabre Waterfalls in the Ashanti Region. Highlighting the site as an underutilized natural resource, he pointed out that the waterfalls possess significant potential to become a major tourism hub if given the necessary attention and investment by the state. The media personality emphasized that the current state of the site requires a strategic roadmap for infrastructure and marketing to reach its full capacity. The core of Afrifa-Mensah’s advocacy lies in the socio-economic benefits that a revitalized tourism site would bring to the local community and the nation at large. He noted that the proper development of the Tabre Waterfalls would serve as a catalyst for significant revenue generation, contributing to the tourism sector's growth. By drawing both domestic and international visitors to the Ashanti Region, the site would create a sustainable economic stream that benefits the national treasury. Beyond revenue, the promotion of the waterfalls is expected to trigger substantial job creation within the Tabre community. Afrifa-Mensah argued that the expansion of tourism activities would open up opportunities in the hospitality, transport, and service sectors for local residents. This development would not only provide direct employment but also support small-scale businesses and artisans within the area, helping to alleviate local unemployment and improve living standards. Ultimately, the appeal to the Ghana Tourism Authority underscores the importance of identifying and marketing hidden natural landmarks across the country. Developing the Tabre Waterfalls would align with broader national efforts to diversify Ghana’s tourism portfolio and promote rural development. As the GTA considers this call, the successful transformation of the waterfalls could serve as a blueprint for utilizing natural assets to drive community-centered economic progress in other regions.

Shawana Yussif wins Best Gender Reporting at Northern GJA Awards
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Shawana Yussif wins Best Gender Reporting at Northern GJA Awards

Shawana Yussif, the Northern Regional Bureau Chief for Channel One TV, has been honored with the Best Gender Reporting Award at the Northern Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards. The recognition marks the second consecutive year that Yussif has been celebrated for her journalistic excellence in the region. The ceremony, which highlights the contributions of media professionals in northern Ghana, also saw her colleague, the station’s regional cameraman, recognized for his technical and visual contributions to storytelling. Yussif’s award-winning entry focused on the complex and often harrowing challenges faced by individuals accused of witchcraft during their reintegration into society. Her reporting shed light on the social and systemic barriers affecting these vulnerable persons, who are predominantly women, and underscored the need for community support and policy intervention. In recognition of her impactful work, she received a citation, a plaque, and a laptop computer sponsored by the non-governmental organization ActionAid. The event further solidified the presence of Channel One TV in the northern media landscape as its regional cameraman was named the Best Videographer. This award recognized his excellence in visual storytelling, which complemented the station's investigative and human-interest reporting. Both recipients were lauded for their dedication to bringing important local issues to the national spotlight through compelling narratives and high-quality production. The Northern GJA Awards serve as a platform to encourage high standards of journalism across the region. By focusing on gender-sensitive reporting and visual excellence, the association aims to promote stories that drive social change and hold authorities accountable. For Yussif, the back-to-back recognition reinforces her commitment to giving a voice to the marginalized and tackling sensitive gender-related issues that remain prevalent in the northern parts of the country.