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.

Some participants after the training at Bibiani
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Empowerment Worship Centre Reaches 13,000 Residents as Ghana Modernizes Social Welfare and Child Protection Systems

In a significant period for community development and social protection, over 13,000 residents in Dansoman, Mamprobi, Chorkor, and Lartebiokoshie received critical aid through the LIFECHECK 2026 initiative, while the government simultaneously advanced technological measures to combat child labour. Organized by the Empowerment Worship Centre and the Empowerment Care Foundation on September 26, 2026, the "LOVE BEYOND WORDS" outreach at KariKari Park provided GH₵300,000 worth of medical care and essential supplies. This massive exercise saw the distribution of 5,500 school bags, 2,000 pairs of shoes, and 12,000 exercise books, alongside specialized health services including Hepatitis B vaccinations and life-changing surgeries. Supported by 800 volunteers and numerous corporate partners, the event underscored the church's commitment to tangible community upliftment through faith-based service. Complementing these local efforts, Ghana has officially launched the Ghana Child Labour Monitoring System (GCLMS) to modernize the fight against child exploitation. Developed with support from the International Labour Organization (ILO) under the ACCEL Africa project, the digital system provides a unified framework for identifying and managing cases in high-risk sectors such as agriculture and mining. From September 15 to 18, 2026, stakeholders underwent training to ensure the GCLMS generates the reliable data necessary for effective policy intervention. This shift toward digital documentation is expected to streamline coordination among government institutions and child welfare agencies, ensuring accurate case management from initial identification to follow-up care and rehabilitation. Meanwhile, the nation prepares for a significant religious and economic milestone with the 10th Triennial World Assemblies of God (AoG) Congress at Black Star Square. President John Mahama is expected to join over 10,000 participants for the event, which centers on the theme "Commissioned: One Mandate, Every Nation." Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam emphasized that the congress serves a dual purpose: driving spiritual revival through massive global prayer and boosting the local economy by attracting international tourists and investors. Together, these initiatives in healthcare, labor protection, and religious tourism reflect a broader national movement under President Mahama's administration to strengthen Ghana's social fabric and international standing.

Samson Oddoye (right), National Coordinator, Street Sense Organisation, presenting a reflective vest to Christian Tetteh Yohuno (left), Inspector-General of Police. Picture: ELVIS NII NOI DOWUONA
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IGP Yohuno Urges Road Safety Caution as Military Enhances Joint Operational Readiness at NAVTRAC

In a week marked by significant updates to Ghana's safety and security infrastructure, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno has issued a critical call for motorists to exercise maximum caution to curb the rising tide of road accidents. Speaking at an event in Accra on October 5, 2026, the IGP expressed deep concern over the increasing number of fatalities and injuries on the country's roads, urging drivers to prioritize the protection of pedestrians and other road users. This appeal coincided with the receipt of 1,000 reflective vests donated by the Street Sense Organisation, which are intended to bolster the visibility and safety of the 3,000 police officers currently deployed daily to manage traffic nationwide. The IGP also announced that the implementation of the TRAFFITECH-GH automated traffic management system has been rescheduled to November 1, 2026, to allow for further public education and sensitization. Parallel to these civil safety efforts, the Ghana Armed Forces are intensifying their focus on inter-Service cooperation and operational readiness. On October 2, 2026, students from the Artillery Training School conducted a strategic educational visit to the Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC) in Nutekpor. This visit was designed to deepen the students' understanding of naval fire support and the complexities of joint military operations, ensuring that different branches of the military can operate seamlessly in combined environments. Lieutenant Commander Kwame Ofori-Boateng led the session, delivering a comprehensive lecture on the integration of naval gunfire support into land-based operations and the essential nature of coordination for tactical success. During the visit, the artillery students toured specialized facilities, including the Lillie May Didreksen Simulation Centre and the 'Ship-in-a-Box' training unit. These practical exercises allowed the personnel to witness firsthand the modern training methodologies and naval capabilities that complement land forces in various operational scenarios. The experience underscored the significance of inter-Service collaboration in enhancing the military's overall effectiveness. These developments across both the police service and the military highlight a unified national effort toward institutional modernization and safety. While the police focus on civil safety through improved traffic management and public engagement, the military’s emphasis on inter-service training ensures a more robust defense capability. Moving forward, the successful launch of TRAFFITECH-GH in November and the continued integration of military training programs are expected to significantly improve Ghana’s institutional response to domestic and external security requirements.

North Industrial Area fire: AMA clears unauthorised structures at Kofikrom 
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Ghana National Fire Service Battles Amasaman Blaze as AMA Clears Illegal Structures Following Industrial Area Inferno

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) is currently engaged in a major operation to contain a fire outbreak that erupted behind the China Mall in Amasaman, Accra. Firefighting crews from four separate stations—Amasaman, National Headquarters, Madina, and Abelemkpe—were immediately dispatched to the scene to prevent the blaze from spreading to adjacent commercial and residential buildings. While the specific cause of the fire and the total extent of property damage remain under investigation, the incident has significantly heightened public concerns regarding fire safety and emergency accessibility across the Greater Accra Region. This latest outbreak follows a devastating inferno at the North Industrial Area in Avenor, which ravaged multiple warehouses and makeshift structures, including the Duraplast Limited factory. That fire, which lasted over eight hours and was suspected to have been triggered by a gas cylinder explosion among squatters, resulted in massive property losses and left two individuals feared dead. The destruction at Duraplast, a major manufacturer of plastic materials and water tanks, has already begun to impact the livelihoods of numerous workers, highlighting the severe economic consequences of industrial fires in the capital. In a direct response to the emergency access challenges identified during the Avenor incident, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has moved to clear unauthorized structures that hindered firefighting efforts. Supported by the 48 Engineer Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces, the AMA demolished illegal buildings in the Kofikrom area after occupants ignored a May 29, 2026, deadline to vacate. Municipal Chief Executive Michael Kpakpo Allotey emphasized that the removal was a necessary safety measure, as illegal congestion had previously prevented fire engines from reaching the heart of the blaze in a timely manner, exacerbating the damage. Lt. Col. Frank Osei Amponsah of the 48 Engineer Regiment noted that the military’s involvement was critical in ensuring the space was permanently cleared to facilitate future emergency response efforts. As crews continue to monitor the Amasaman site, the AMA has vowed to maintain a strict presence in cleared areas to prevent reoccupation by squatters. These coordinated efforts by the GNFS, the military, and local government reflect an intensified regional strategy to improve disaster response and enforce zoning regulations to protect lives and property in the wake of recurring fire disasters.

EOCO detention wont stop me from representing Salomey – Baffour Awuah
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Lawyer Baffour Awuah Reaffirms Commitment to 'Ghana Jollof' Defense Following EOCO Detention as Law Society Proposes New Training Reforms

Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, a prominent lawyer, has declared his unwavering resolve to continue representing his client, Salomey Awity Baffoe, despite his recent detention by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). Following his release on bail on October 3, 2026, Awuah emphasized that his personal legal challenges would not deter him from seeking justice for Ms. Baffoe, a mother of three who is currently facing charges related to the "Ghana Jollof" social media account. The lawyer's detention followed his voluntary surrender to authorities on October 1, amidst an investigation that has drawn significant public attention. While initial rumors suggested a bail amount as high as GH¢50 million, EOCO dismissed these reports as unverified, clarifying that Awuah remained under investigation and was cooperating with the Attorney-General’s Office for a potential court appearance. Meanwhile, the High Court in Accra has dismissed a bail application for Ms. Baffoe, who is accused of abetment of crime in connection with the social media handle's activities. Beyond his specific case, Awuah raised broader concerns regarding the state of legal rights in Ghana, voicing alarm over what he described as the denial of legal representation for women exercising their rights to free speech. In a separate development affecting the wider legal profession, the President of the Ghana Law Society, Rockson-Nelson Etse Kwami Dafeamekpor, has proposed a significant shift in the training of new lawyers. Under a proposed Bar Reform Programme, the traditional six-month pupilage would be replaced by a 12-month structured national service program. This initiative aims to address the uneven distribution of legal professionals by stationing newly qualified lawyers in various districts across Ghana to provide legal aid, assistance in drafting, and mentorship to ensure broader access to justice for vulnerable individuals. These developments highlight a period of significant activity and scrutiny within Ghana's legal sector. While practitioners like Baffour Awuah navigate high-profile criminal investigations and free speech debates, institutional leaders are looking toward long-term reforms to the profession. The completion of the proposed national service program would become a mandatory requirement for fresh lawyers to receive certificates necessary for practicing law, potentially reshaping the future of legal service delivery and professional standards in the country.

Tennessee Prison Chief Frank Strada Resigns Following Failed Execution of Death Row Inmate Christa Pike
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Tennessee Prison Chief Frank Strada Resigns Following Failed Execution of Death Row Inmate Christa Pike

Commissioner Frank Strada, the head of the Tennessee Department of Correction, has resigned following a botched execution attempt on death row inmate Christa Pike. The announcement came from Governor Bill Lee, who stated that the resignation was in the best interests of the state as it grapples with the fallout of the failed procedure. Pike, the only woman on Tennessee’s death row, survived two lethal injection doses during the attempt and remains in critical condition at a Nashville hospital. In response to the incident, Governor Lee has ordered an independent review of the state's execution protocols and halted all executions for the remainder of the year. The failed execution has raised significant questions regarding the state's capital punishment procedures. Pike was sentenced to death in 1996 for the 1995 murder of Colleen Slemmer, a crime committed alongside her boyfriend. During the recent execution attempt, she reportedly experienced significant distress and sustained severe medical complications after the lethal drugs failed to prove fatal. While the Tennessee Department of Correction has defended its established protocols, officials have not yet provided a detailed explanation for why the procedure failed so catastrophically. Legal representatives for Christa Pike have condemned the event as a "systemic failure" and are calling for full accountability from state officials. Her legal team has filed an emergency motion to preserve all evidence related to the botched execution, citing concerns over her medical history and the administration of the drugs. They argue that the incident reflects deeper flaws within Tennessee's death penalty system that must be addressed before any further executions are carried out. The resignation of Commissioner Strada and the subsequent moratorium on executions mark a period of intense scrutiny for Tennessee's justice system. As the independent investigation begins, the focus remains on the state's ability to carry out its most severe penalties humanely and legally. The outcome of the review is expected to determine the future of execution protocols in Tennessee and whether the state can rectify the procedural lapses that led to Pike’s survival and current medical crisis.

Turn Saltpond history into economic opportunity - Stakeholders
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Ernest De-Graft Egyir Proposes National Political History and Heritage Centre in Saltpond

Ernest De-Graft Egyir, President of the Mfantseman-Saltpond Development Alliance (MSDA), has proposed the establishment of a National Political History and Heritage Centre in Saltpond. Speaking at a Founders’ Day event themed "Saltpond Heritage, Ghana’s Future, Turning History into Opportunity," Mr. Egyir outlined a vision to transform the town’s rich political legacy into a driver for tourism, education, and economic growth. The proposed centre is intended to serve as a comprehensive national institution documenting Ghana’s journey from colonial rule to independence, ensuring that the country’s political narrative is preserved for future generations. Central to the proposal is the historical significance of Saltpond, which played a pivotal role in the nation’s liberation struggle. Mr. Egyir highlighted landmarks such as Canaan Lodge, the site where the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC) was founded in 1947, as essential components of the heritage project. He emphasized that the facility should function as more than a traditional museum; it is envisioned as a vibrant educational and civic resource where visitors and students can engage with the complexities of Ghana’s political evolution through learning and remembrance. To ensure the success of the initiative, the MSDA president called for a broad-based, non-partisan approach to historical documentation. He urged the government, traditional authorities, educational institutions, and private stakeholders to collaborate on the project. This sentiment was echoed by the Deputy CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, who noted the importance of converting historical significance into sustainable heritage opportunities. By maintaining a balanced and objective view of the past, the centre aims to foster national unity and provide a reliable repository for the country’s political milestones. In addition to the heritage centre, the MSDA announced strategic changes to the local cultural calendar to further stimulate economic activity. The Odambea Festival has been rescheduled to the third week of August, a move intended to encourage greater participation from the diaspora and the local community. These combined efforts represent a holistic approach to community development, leveraging Saltpond’s unique place in Ghanaian history to create modern-day opportunities for trade, tourism, and civic engagement.

A night-time photograph of the exterior of Kotoka International Airport in Accra, Ghana. The image displays several vehicles in a parking area with the main terminal building illuminated by bright white signage reading 'ACCRA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT'.
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Accra International Airport Implements Mandatory NACOC Pre-Screening for Departing Passengers

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has officially launched new pre-screening security protocols for departing passengers at Accra International Airport. Effective October 2, 2026, these measures represent a significant shift in airport operations, requiring all travelers to undergo rigorous luggage checks before entering the Departure Hall. The initiative, implemented in collaboration with the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), aims to bolster national security and bring the airport’s procedures in line with global aviation safety standards. Under the new directive, passengers will be subject to screening involving both advanced scanning technology and specialized sniffer dogs. This multi-layered approach is specifically designed to detect prohibited substances and enhance the overall safety of the terminal. In a move to further secure the facility, access to the Departure Hall is now strictly limited to traveling passengers. Friends, family, and other non-travelers who traditionally accompanied passengers to the check-in area will no longer be permitted beyond the designated pre-screening points. To accommodate these additional security layers without causing flight delays, the Ghana Airports Company Limited has issued a public advisory urging all travelers to arrive at the airport at least three hours prior to their scheduled departure times. This window is intended to provide sufficient time for the new NACOC checks as well as standard airline check-in and immigration processes. The GACL emphasizes that the cooperation of the traveling public is essential for streamlining airport operations and ensuring a secure environment for both local and international travelers. The introduction of these pre-screening checks is part of a broader effort by the Ghanaian authorities to modernize security infrastructure and combat the trafficking of narcotics through major transit hubs. By mirroring practices found in many of the world's leading international airports, the country seeks to reinforce its reputation for safety and reliability in the aviation sector. These protocols are expected to become a permanent fixture of the airport experience as security agencies continue to refine their collaboration at the nation's primary gateway.

Map showing the route of Flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The plane departed Dubai at 03:05 GMT and flew northwest across Saudi Arabia towards Israel. Near the Israel-Jordan border, the aircraft declared a general emergency at 05:31 and a hijacking alert at 05:38 before turning away from Tel Aviv. The flight diverted south and landed at Tabuk Airport in north-west Saudi Arabia at 06:58. 
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Flydubai Flight Crew and Passengers Subdue Co-pilot Following Mid-Air Axe Attack and 17,000-Foot Plunge

A Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv narrowly averted a major catastrophe after the co-pilot attacked the captain with a crash axe, causing the aircraft to descend rapidly by 17,000 feet. The incident, which occurred in October 2023, involved more than 170 passengers who found themselves in a life-threatening situation as the aircraft plummeted during the violent struggle in the cockpit. The assailant, identified as Omani national Hamam al-Hammami, was eventually overpowered by passengers after the injured captain managed to unlock the cockpit door, allowing for a desperate intervention. Captain Smit Machchhar, who sustained injuries during the assault, displayed remarkable presence of mind by opening the cockpit door to alert those on board. This action enabled several passengers to rush forward and subdue al-Hammami, ending the immediate threat to the flight. With the captain incapacitated and the co-pilot restrained, two reserve pilots who were traveling on the flight took control of the aircraft. They successfully executed an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia, ensuring the safety of everyone on board while the captain was rushed to medical care. Investigations launched by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) authorities are currently examining potential links to terrorism and the radicalization of the attacker. Reports indicate that al-Hammami had previously exhibited radical views at a different airline and was described by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as having undergone radical indoctrination. Netanyahu further suggested that the co-pilot exhibited suicidal tendencies during the attack, likening the event to a thwarted hijacking. The UAE Attorney General and prosecutor's office are leading the formal probe into the Omani national's motives and personal background. Captain Machchhar was hospitalized following the emergency landing and is reported to be in stable condition after undergoing surgery for his injuries. The incident has raised significant concerns regarding aviation security and the vetting of flight crews on sensitive international routes. While the quick actions of the crew and passengers prevented a disaster similar to historic aviation tragedies, the event has prompted an urgent review of cockpit security protocols and the psychological monitoring of pilots within the region’s aviation industry.

An official media release from the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) dated October 2, 2026. The statement explains the removal of unauthorized occupants from the Labadi and La Palm beachfronts following an intervention by National Security to protect investment assets.
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SSNIT Defends National Security Demolition of Beachfront Structures at Labadi and La Palm Hotels Amid Political Criticism

The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) has justified a major demolition exercise conducted on October 2, 2026, targeting unauthorized structures at the beachfronts adjacent to the Labadi Beach Hotel and La Palm Royal Beach Hotel. The operation, executed by National Security personnel alongside the Ghana Armed Forces and the Police, resulted in the clearing of several establishments, including the prominent Polo Beach Club and structures at La Pleasure Beach. SSNIT’s Board of Trustees maintains that the intervention was necessary to protect critical national assets and the investments of Ghanaian workers and pensioners. According to the Trust, the persistent unlawful occupation of these lands posed significant risks to public health, coastal ecosystems, and the security of hotel guests and staff. Stanisluv Xoese Dogbe, the Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Operations, clarified that the demolition was specifically requested by the Labadi Beach Hotel to reclaim its beachfront and was not part of a broader government flood mitigation project. He emphasized that the unregulated operations of nearby businesses had led to deteriorating sanitation and security concerns that threatened the reputation of Ghana’s premier hospitality assets. The Trust argued that failing to act would have resulted in reputational damage and financial losses to the tourism sector, potentially complicating the future recovery of these affected lands. Despite the clearing of structures, SSNIT has assured the public that the beaches will be restored to a clean state and will remain accessible for public use. The exercise has sparked significant political debate and criticism, most notably from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who described the demolition as wanton. Public interest has also centered on the demolition of the Polo Beach Club, which is owned by Spartan Ives Limited and linked to Kwame Blay, the son of former NPP National Chairman Freddie Blay. Local traders at the resort expressed distress over the sudden loss of their livelihoods, claiming they were not given sufficient notice of the exact date of the operation, leading to a significant economic blow to the area’s tourism ecosystem. Further complicating the aftermath are reports of physical assaults on media personnel during the demolition. The Ghana Bloggers Association and the New Media Association of Ghana (NMAG) have strongly condemned the reported manhandling of blogger Kwaku Dennis Sika (Sika Official) and activist Ralph St. Williams by military personnel. The associations have called for a fair inquiry and greater accountability, urging security agencies to maintain professionalism when dealing with those documenting public events. As SSNIT moves forward with its restoration plans, the incident remains a point of contention regarding the balance between protecting state investments and the rights of local business operators and the media.

Samuel Ato Duncan, President-General of the Centre of Awareness Global Peace Mission, speaking at the event
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Sydney Hushie Appointed to UNFPA Global Role as Ghana Launches New Child Labour Monitoring System

In a week marked by significant professional achievements and institutional milestones, Ghanaian Sydney Hushie has been appointed as the Chief of the Digital Centre of Excellence at the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in New York. Hushie, who has an extensive background with the African Development Bank and the British Council, will lead global efforts to leverage digital innovation for maternal health and the eradication of gender-based violence. This appointment comes as the Daily Graphic, a cornerstone of the nation’s media landscape, celebrates its 76th anniversary. Founded in 1950, the publication has evolved from a pioneering modern newspaper into a vital platform for national discourse, surviving early political opposition to become an enduring voice for the Ghanaian public. Amidst these celebrations of progress, Ghana is also strengthening its social protections with the rollout of the Ghana Child Labour Monitoring System (GCLMS). This digital framework is designed to identify and manage cases of child labour within the agricultural, mining, and domestic sectors, ensuring better coordination among state institutions to protect vulnerable children. However, the country’s agricultural sector faces an urgent threat as farmers in the Upper East Region battle an infestation of Striga, commonly known as witchweed. This parasitic plant is currently devastating cereal crops, including maize and millet, with experts predicting yield losses of over 60%. At the 26th Annual General Meeting of the Ghana Institute of Horticulturists, Prof. Elvis Asare-Bediako, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR), emphasized that such crises necessitate a shift in research methodology. He called for farmers to be placed at the center of agricultural research from its inception, advocating for stronger partnerships to bridge the gap between academic findings and practical field applications. In a similar vein of human-centered innovation, Samuel Ato Duncan, President-General of the Centre of Awareness Global Peace Mission, has urged a shift from total dependence on Artificial Intelligence (AI) toward 'Real Intelligence' (RI). Duncan argues that focusing on human consciousness, love, and truth is essential for addressing global conflicts and ensuring sustainable development. Tragedy and extraordinary curiosity also marked recent events both locally and abroad. In the Western Region’s Ahanta West Municipality, a family of four, including a newborn baby, perished in a devastating house fire at Apemanim No. 2, leaving the community in mourning. Meanwhile, in Anum, Eastern Region, a 100-year-old tree with roots suspended in the air has become a focal point for nature enthusiasts and locals alike. On the international stage, a catastrophic avalanche at the base camp of Himlung peak in Nepal claimed the lives of at least 15 expedition workers, one of the region's deadliest mountain disasters in recent years. In a contrasting story of survival, Indian pilot Smit Machchhar was hailed as a hero after he successfully regained control of a Flydubai flight to Tel Aviv following an internal attack, opening the cockpit door to allow passengers to assist him after the aircraft plunged 17,000 feet. These global and local narratives underscore a period defined by the dualities of professional triumph, environmental challenges, and the resilience of the human spirit.

World Assemblies of God Congress Convenes in Accra Amidst National Clerical Discourse
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World Assemblies of God Congress Convenes in Accra Amidst National Clerical Discourse

Accra is set to host the 10th Triennial World Assemblies of God (AoG) Congress, a major international gathering expected to attract over 10,000 delegates from across the globe. The event, held at the Black Star Square, is centered on the theme "Commissioned: One Mandate, Every Nation." This high-profile religious summit features distinguished attendees, including Ghana’s President John Mahama and the World Assemblies of God Fellowship Chairman, Rev. Dominic Yeo. According to Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam, the General Superintendent of Assemblies of God Ghana, the congress is designed to foster a massive prayer movement for global peace while simultaneously positioning Ghana as a premier destination for spiritual tourism and international investment. Rev. Wengam emphasized that the congress will provide a significant boost to the national economy, benefiting local hospitality and service sectors as thousands of visitors arrive in the capital. To accommodate the massive influx of participants, temporary infrastructure and extensive logistical preparations have been implemented at the Black Star Square. The gathering is seen not only as a spiritual milestone for the Assemblies of God but also as a platform to enhance Ghana’s international visibility and demonstrate the church’s commitment to national stability and progress. While the nation prepares for this global summit, the local religious community has been captivated by a developing controversy involving prominent charismatic figures. Outspoken cleric Prophet Kofi Oduro has made headlines with his claims regarding the death of young pastor Elisha Osei Kofi, asserting that the clergyman's passing was untimely and "not meant to be." These remarks have sparked a wave of debate online, with many Ghanaians discussing the theological implications of premature death and the spiritual destiny of young leaders within the church. The situation escalated as Prophet Elisha Salifu Amoako, General Overseer of Alive Chapel International, responded sharply to rumors of occultism following the funeral of the late Prophet Elisha Osei Kofi. Critics on social media had questioned the nature of the burial rites after it was announced that a large group of pastors would accompany the deceased for interment. In a direct rebuttal, Prophet Amoako dismissed the allegations as "baseless criticism," asserting the spiritual integrity of the ceremony and telling detractors they could "go to hell." These contrasting events—the institutional focus of the World Assemblies of God Congress and the charismatic friction surrounding local funeral rites—reflect the multifaceted nature of religious life in Ghana. As the government and the Assemblies of God prepare for an event of international significance, the broader clerical community remains engaged in intense dialogue over the interpretation of spiritual events and the conduct of its leaders. These developments underscore the central role that faith and its practitioners continue to play in both the national economy and the public consciousness.

Tarkwa Man Jailed for Maternal Threat as Authorities Crack Down on Kidnapping and Illegal Spas
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Tarkwa Man Jailed for Maternal Threat as Authorities Crack Down on Kidnapping and Illegal Spas

In a significant week for law enforcement across Ghana, the Tarkwa Circuit Court has sentenced 26-year-old Joseph Quaye to four years in prison with hard labor for threatening the life of his mother. The court, presided over by Her Honour Bernice Mensima Ackon, heard that Quaye, who is currently unemployed, brandished a knife and scissors against his mother, Afua Adenzie, following a domestic disagreement. Prosecution lead ASP Veronica Tibson detailed a pattern of aggressive confrontations that necessitated the firm judicial intervention. This sentencing serves as a stern warning against domestic violence and the use of lethal threats within the family unit. Further north, the Northern Regional Police Command has successfully apprehended three individuals suspected of a high-profile kidnapping in Dobini Bunban, near Yendi. The suspects, identified as Mahumudu Abdulai (32), Ganiu Sumaila (32), and Abdulai Salam (28), were arrested in connection with the abduction of Ayuba Sumiya Mawudu, also known as Haruna. The case, which reportedly involved a ransom demand of GH"100,000 and the involvement of four armed men, has highlighted the ongoing efforts of the regional command to dismantle criminal networks operating in the northern belt of the country. In the Ashanti Region, regulatory authorities have turned their attention to the health and wellness sector, resulting in the closure of three massage spas operated by Chinese nationals. The Traditional Medicine Practice Council (TMPC) shut down the facilities in Ahodwo and Daban after an enforcement exercise revealed they lacked mandatory licenses and proof of professional proficiency. Divine Azraku, the TMPC’s Ashanti Regional Regulation Officer, emphasized that most facilities inspected during the sweep failed to produce business permits or association cards. The Council has directed these operators to regularize their status and pay the necessary fines before they can resume services, reinforcing the government's commitment to public safety standards. On the national security front, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) is advocating for a more integrated approach to policing Ghana's maritime gateways. Director-General Major-General Maxwell Obuba Mantey has called for tighter coordination among security agencies at Tema Harbour to prevent its use as a transit point for illicit drugs. Major-General Mantey stipulated that no container should depart the harbour without explicit clearance from NACOC, urging agencies to prioritize national security over institutional autonomy. To bolster these efforts, NACOC has pledged to provide advanced training and specialized software to enhance the detection and interception of narcotics, ensuring a more secure environment for international trade.