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.

Funeral Rites Announced for DCOP Rtd Kwaku Ayesu Opare-Addo and Stephen Kojo Adjei in Ashanti Region
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Funeral Rites Announced for DCOP Rtd Kwaku Ayesu Opare-Addo and Stephen Kojo Adjei in Ashanti Region

Families, colleagues, and the wider Ghanaian community are preparing to bid final farewells to two distinguished figures, retired Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Kwaku Ayesu Opare-Addo and Mr. Stephen Kojo Adjei. Both funeral services are scheduled to take place in early October 2026 across different locations in the Ashanti Region, drawing together mourners from the security services, traditional leadership, and the general public to celebrate lives dedicated to service and family. The final rites for DCOP Rtd Kwaku Ayesu Opare-Addo will commence on Friday, October 2, 2026, with a laying-in-state and burial service at the Ghana Police Training School in Patasi, Kumasi. Following the service, his remains will be interred at the Old Tafo Cemetery. The late DCOP, who served with distinction in the Ghana Police Service, is survived by his widow, Mrs. Comfort Opare-Addo, and his children. A thanksgiving service to honor his memory is scheduled for Sunday, October 3, at the Amakom Adventist Church, followed by a final family gathering at the Patasi Police Training School. In a concurrent announcement, the Abusuapanin of the Juaso Oyoko Royal Family, Professor Kenneth Agyemang Attafuah, has detailed the arrangements for Mr. Stephen Kojo Adjei, popularly known as Kwaadjei. His funeral proceedings will begin with a lying-in-state on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at the Old Ahenfie in Juaso. The burial service will follow immediately, with interment set for the Mount Calvary Presbyterian Church Cemetery. The Juaso community will hold funeral rites at the Forecourt of the Old Ahenfie on both Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning to allow for a full celebration of his life. The weekend of mourning will conclude with a thanksgiving service for Mr. Adjei on Sunday, October 4, at the Mount Calvary Presbyterian Church in Juaso, with a final family gathering scheduled for Monday, October 5. These two transitions represent significant losses for their respective communities—one in the heart of Kumasi's professional security circles and the other within the royal and traditional fabric of Juaso. The scheduled ceremonies offer an opportunity for the public to pay their respects to these two men who leave behind legacies of integrity and communal devotion.

Tragic Deaths and Burial Unrest: Ghanaian Professor Murdered in US as Local Investigations Continue in Bolgatanga and Akyem Kade
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Tragic Deaths and Burial Unrest: Ghanaian Professor Murdered in US as Local Investigations Continue in Bolgatanga and Akyem Kade

A series of tragic events involving Ghanaians at home and abroad has sparked police investigations and community unrest. In a high-profile international case, Betty Akamani, a 35-year-old American academic, has been charged with the murder of her husband, Dr. Kofi Akamani. Dr. Akamani, a prominent Ghanaian professor at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, was allegedly shot by his wife on September 19, 2026. The suspect, who possesses a background in psychology and applied research, was arrested immediately following the incident, leaving the academic community and the Ghanaian diaspora in shock. On the domestic front, police in the Upper East Region have launched an investigation into the mysterious death of a young farmer in Sumbrungu, near Bolgatanga. The body of Azoya Anoryira was discovered by the roadside in the early morning hours, though the specific cause of death remains unknown. Assembly Member Richard Akanpie Akumdaare, who officially reported the incident, emphasized the unusual nature of such a tragedy in the peaceful community and urged residents to maintain high levels of vigilance while authorities work to uncover the circumstances surrounding the farmer's passing. Meanwhile, a burial service in Akyem Kade escalated into violence following a dispute over traditional rites at the Sakora Park Cemetery. What was meant to be a solemn farewell for 16-year-old Kwaku Nti Augustine turned into pandemonium when a heated argument broke out over the physical alignment and positioning of the teenager's corpse. The disagreement quickly turned bloody, forcing mourners to scatter for safety as a violent brawl erupted within the cemetery grounds, disrupting the funeral proceedings. These disparate incidents highlight a week of significant loss and social tension for various Ghanaian communities. As police in both the United States and Ghana proceed with their respective criminal and forensic inquiries, families are left waiting for answers. Funeral arrangements for Azoya Anoryira remain pending the outcome of the police investigation, while the community in Akyem Kade grapples with the aftermath of the burial site chaos. Authorities continue to call for calm and cooperation from the public to ensure justice is served in each case.

Former England Striker Andy Carroll Reveals 2021 Sexual Assault Trauma in New Autobiography
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Former England Striker Andy Carroll Reveals 2021 Sexual Assault Trauma in New Autobiography

Former England striker Andy Carroll has shared a deeply personal and traumatic experience in his new autobiography, titled "Owning It." The professional footballer revealed that he was sexually assaulted by a man in 2021, an incident that he describes as having a lasting impact on his life and mental well-being. By coming forward with this disclosure, Carroll joins a growing number of high-profile athletes speaking openly about survival and the psychological toll of such experiences, marking a significant departure from his usual public image as a physical powerhouse on the pitch. In the book, Carroll describes the encounter as "scary" and details the emotional aftermath of the assault. The incident occurred during a period when the striker, known for his high-profile moves to clubs like Liverpool and Newcastle United, was navigating the later stages of his career in English football. He explains that the trauma from the 2021 event has not faded, continuing to affect him years later as he seeks to process the event through his writing. The revelation highlights the hidden vulnerabilities even the most prominent public figures may face. The disclosure has sparked significant conversation regarding the importance of breaking the silence surrounding male victims of sexual assault. While Carroll is widely recognized for his athleticism and aerial prowess, his decision to include this sensitive subject in his autobiography highlights a shift toward greater transparency in the sporting world. The title of the book, "Owning It," serves as a thematic backdrop for his journey toward healing and reclaiming his narrative from the shadow of the assault. As Carroll continues his professional career and promotes his autobiography, his disclosure is expected to resonate with many who have faced similar challenges. By sharing his "scary" reality, the former international player provides a platform for broader discussions on trauma and recovery within the football community. The disclosure marks a pivotal moment in Carroll's public life, moving beyond his achievements on the field to address the profound personal challenges he has faced off it.

Family and Academic Community to Honor Late Prof. D. K. Yeboah-Amankwah at Legon Requiem Mass
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Family and Academic Community to Honor Late Prof. D. K. Yeboah-Amankwah at Legon Requiem Mass

The family of the late Professor D. K. Yeboah-Amankwah has announced that a Requiem Mass will be held in his honor to celebrate his life and significant academic contributions. The service is scheduled for Saturday, September 26th, at the Christ Anglican Church, located within the University of Ghana, Legon campus. The ceremony is slated to begin promptly at 9:00 am, and the family has requested that all friends, sympathizers, and well-wishers observe a formal dress code of black and white for the occasion. The announcement is supported by a distinguished group of traditional leaders and professionals, reflecting the late professor's deep cultural and societal ties. Leading the invitation are Nana Mensa Abrampa, the Abakomahene of the Sunyani Traditional Area, and Nana Ansu Gyeabour and Nana Yaa Kyeremaa, the Nkonwasoafohene and Nkonwasoafohemaa of the Dormaa Traditional Area respectively. Additionally, Albert Kofi Owusu, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana News Agency (GNA), is among the prominent figures listed as part of the grieving family and organizers. Professor Yeboah-Amankwah’s immediate family, including his widow, Mrs. Rose Yeboah-Amankwah, and his children—Naomi Gyamfi, Nana Kumi Somuah, Safurdu Yeboah-Amankwah, and Asuama Yeboah-Amankwah—will be joined by his sister, Grace Asuama, and Mrs. Elizabeth Tabi, a retired nurse from Accra. The gathering at Legon is expected to draw a wide array of colleagues from the university community and beyond, providing a space for the public to pay their final respects to a man whose legacy remains embedded in the institutions he served. This Requiem Mass serves as a formal opportunity for the community to reflect on the professor's impact before his final transition. By bringing together traditional authorities from the Sunyani and Dormaa areas alongside the academic elite at the University of Ghana, the event highlights the broad spectrum of lives touched by Prof. Yeboah-Amankwah. The family encourages all who knew him to attend this spiritual send-off and join in the collective celebration of his life's work.

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Family Announces Final Rites for Mr. John Blankson Adu Otu Following His Transition at 78

The family of the late Mr. John Blankson Adu Otu has officially announced the funeral arrangements following his peaceful transition on July 3, 2026. Mr. Otu passed away in Gbawe at the age of 78, leaving behind a legacy cherished by his relatives and the wider community. Leading the announcement are Nene Amatey Alipue-Narh and Nomo Samuel Alipue Teye Ofoe, along with other notable family members, who have invited friends and well-wishers to join them in honoring his memory during the upcoming final rites in October. The scheduled events will begin on Friday, October 16, 2026, with the laying in state at Lenobinya Gardens. This will be followed by a memorial service on Saturday, October 17, which will precede the interment at the Ada Cemetery. These ceremonies are expected to draw a significant gathering of mourners from across the region to pay their final respects to a man described as a beloved figure within his family and social circles. To conclude the period of mourning, a thanksgiving service is scheduled for Sunday, October 18, 2026, at the Holy Cross Anglican Church. The family has requested that attendees adhere to specific dress codes as a sign of respect and tradition: black attire is expected for the services on Saturday, while black and white clothing is requested for the thanksgiving service on Sunday. These arrangements provide a structured opportunity for the community to celebrate Mr. Otu's long life and find collective solace in his passing.

GNFS Launches 2026/27 Anti-Bushfire Campaign as Firefighters Contain Domestic Outbreaks Nationwide
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GNFS Launches 2026/27 Anti-Bushfire Campaign as Firefighters Contain Domestic Outbreaks Nationwide

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has officially launched its 2026/27 National Anti-Bushfire Campaign in Atebubu, Bono East Region, while simultaneously managing several domestic fire incidents across the country. Under the theme "Bushfire Prevention: A Collective Action for Sustainable Environmental Development and a Greener Ghana," the initiative aims to build on recent successes in environmental protection. Chief Fire Officer Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong announced during the launch that collaborative efforts have already led to a significant 62.8% reduction in bushfire incidents between 2025 and 2026, highlighting the impact of community-driven advocacy. The new campaign focuses on a multi-stakeholder approach, involving regional ministers, traditional leaders, and local fire volunteers to safeguard farmlands and promote a greener landscape. The GNFS plans to intensify community outreach programs and provide improved resources to local volunteers to maintain the downward trend in fire cases. CFO Ntow Sarpong emphasized that while the service is modernizing its approach, the success of the 2026/27 season depends heavily on public support and a collective sense of responsibility toward fire safety. While the national campaign focuses on prevention, GNFS personnel have remained active in responding to structural fires in various regions. In Bebianiha, within the Upper Denkyira West Municipality, firefighters from the Dunkwa-on-Offin Fire Station recently responded to a major fire at a 14-room residence. Although ten rooms were destroyed in the late-night blaze, the swift intervention of the crew saved four rooms and prevented the fire from spreading to adjacent buildings. Similarly, at Amasaman Three Junction, firefighters successfully contained a domestic fire, saving three bedrooms of a four-bedroom apartment and ensuring no injuries were recorded despite the loss of personal property. Investigations into the specific causes of the Amasaman and Bebianiha fires are currently ongoing as the service works to determine the origins of these domestic outbreaks. The GNFS continues to urge the public to remain vigilant and adhere to fire safety protocols in both residential and agricultural settings. As the 2026/27 campaign gains momentum, the service remains committed to its dual mandate of rapid emergency response and proactive public education to minimize the loss of life and property across Ghana.

New Ghana Army soldiers warned against misusing uniform on social media
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Brigadier General Edward Awaribey Warns 646 New Ghana Army Recruits Over Social Media and Uniform Misuse

The Ghana Army has officially welcomed 646 new soldiers into its ranks following a rigorous passing-out parade at the Army Recruit Training School (ARTS) in Shai Hills. During the ceremony, Brigadier General Edward Awaribey issued a stern warning to the recruits regarding their conduct, specifically highlighting the increasing risks and responsibilities associated with social media use. He reminded the new personnel that as members of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), they are now standard-bearers of national security and must conduct themselves with the highest level of decorum both in physical and digital spaces. This induction marks a significant addition to the nation's security apparatus as the military continues to bolster its professional capacity. A central theme of the General's address was the sanctity of the military uniform and the broader reputation of the institution. Brigadier General Awaribey cautioned the recruits against using their uniforms in social media posts that could bring the GAF into disrepute or compromise operational security. The military command emphasized that the misuse of the uniform on digital platforms is a breach of discipline that will not be tolerated, stressing that integrity and professionalism must remain at the forefront of their service. This warning comes at a time when the visibility of security personnel on global digital platforms has become a point of concern for military leadership, necessitating a firm stance on maintaining professional boundaries. The ceremony also served as a platform to celebrate the hard work and resilience of the recruits who successfully completed their training. Outstanding recruits were recognized for their exceptional performance in various disciplines, receiving awards for their achievements during the ceremony. Brigadier General Awaribey noted that the transition from civilian to military life requires a total commitment to the laws governing the Armed Forces and the 1992 Constitution. He urged the new soldiers to uphold these values throughout their careers, ensuring that their actions always reflect the honor of the uniform they wear. As these 646 soldiers begin their active service, the military hierarchy expects them to integrate these lessons of discipline and patriotism into their daily duties. The passing-out parade marks the beginning of their professional journey in an increasingly complex security landscape where the actions of a single soldier can significantly impact the public perception of the entire military. By adhering to the strict guidelines on social media and uniform usage, these new recruits are tasked with upholding the long-standing tradition of excellence and neutrality that characterizes the Ghana Army.

64 suspects picked up in police operation at Achimota, firearms recovered
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Police Arrest 64 Suspects and Recover Illegal Firearms in Achimota Security Sweep

In a decisive move to bolster public safety, the Ghana Police Service conducted a major tactical operation in Achimota, Accra, on September 25, 2026, resulting in the apprehension of 64 suspects. The raid was initiated in response to numerous complaints from local residents who had grown increasingly concerned about criminal activities emanating from a popular lounge in the area. During the sweep, law enforcement officers recovered a significant cache of illegal firearms and ammunition, marking a major success in the ongoing effort to curb violent crime within the capital city. Among the evidence seized was a blue unregistered Honda Acura containing a pistol holster, which police believe was used in the facilitation of criminal acts. Two individuals were identified as key suspects in the operation due to the severity of the items found in their possession and their behavior during the arrest. Theophilus Ashon was detained after allegedly attempting to impersonate a police officer to evade scrutiny, while Michael Emmanuel Kingsley Mills was arrested following the discovery of multiple firearms in his possession. These high-profile arrests highlight the diverse range of suspects involved in the illicit activities at the Achimota location, spanning from weapon possession to personation of public officers. All 64 suspects are currently being held in police custody as investigators work to verify their identities and determine their specific involvement in local crime syndicates. The Ghana Police Service has indicated that the suspects will be formally processed and prepared for court proceedings in the coming days. This operation serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community vigilance and the effectiveness of resident-led reporting in assisting law enforcement to dismantle criminal hubs and restore order to urban neighborhoods.

MTTD trains personnel on Traffitech-GH cameras to arrest traffic offenders, issue notices of violation
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Ghana Police MTTD to Launch Traffitech-GH Automated Traffic Enforcement System on October 1, 2026

The Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service is set to transform the nation's road safety enforcement with the official launch of the Traffitech-GH project on October 1, 2026. This initiative marks a significant shift toward automated traffic management, utilizing advanced camera systems to identify traffic offenders and issue electronic notices of violation. The rollout follows the successful completion of a comprehensive nationwide training program designed to prepare law enforcement personnel and public sector stakeholders for the transition to digital enforcement. On September 24, the MTTD concluded its final training session, which focused on the operational and legal intricacies of the new system. Attendees, including police officers and representatives from various public sector agencies, received instructions on identifying automated traffic offences and navigating the regulatory changes accompanying the project. The training provided practical experience with speed cameras and detailed information regarding the automated assessment of fines, ensuring that personnel are well-equipped to manage the system’s legal framework effectively and fairly. Preparation for the October launch has extended across the country, with regional offices confirming their operational readiness. In the Volta Region, the back-office infrastructure is reported to be fully established, with the necessary software installed to process violations captured by the new technology. This regional preparedness is a critical component of the national strategy to ensure a seamless transition from manual to automated traffic monitoring, which aims to reduce the reliance on physical checkpoints and minimize human discretion in the enforcement process. Alongside technical training, authorities are intensifying public sensitization efforts to ensure road users are compliant with both new and existing regulations. In the Akatsi South Municipality, recent road safety workshops have educated drivers, motor riders, and transport operators on the importance of proper vehicle registration and the latest policies from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA). Officials emphasized strict adherence to commercial motorcycle and tricycle regulations and cautioned against the use of unauthorized flashlights on vehicles, highlighting how these localized efforts complement the national Traffitech-GH objective. The introduction of Traffitech-GH represents a modernized approach to improving Ghana's road safety record. By leveraging technology to enforce traffic laws consistently, the Ghana Police Service aims to foster a culture of compliance and significantly reduce road accidents. As the October 1 deadline approaches, the combination of rigorous personnel training, regional infrastructure deployment, and community-level education signals a comprehensive effort to make Ghana’s roads safer for all users.

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Two Hospitalised Following Violent Rival Clash at Behenase Illegal Mining Site

Tensions have flared in the Kwahu West Municipality of the Eastern Region following a violent confrontation between rival illegal mining factions that left two individuals with gunshot wounds. The incident occurred at an active 'galamsey' site in Behenase, a community situated near Awiregya. The victims are currently receiving emergency medical attention at the Holy Family Hospital in Nkawkaw, where they were rushed immediately following the skirmish. The clash is the latest in a series of security breaches linked to the lucrative but dangerous trade of illegal gold mining in the region. According to reports, the dispute erupted when two opposing groups clashed over territorial access or the distribution of proceeds at the mining site. The use of firearms in the encounter has heightened fears among nearby residents, who describe an increasingly volatile environment where armed groups operate with little regard for the law or public safety. Residents of the Behenase area have expressed profound concern over the escalating violence and the perceived breakdown of order in the municipality. Many have called for more robust intervention from local security agencies to curb the proliferation of small arms within these mining enclaves. The incident underscores the multifaceted challenges posed by illegal mining, which continues to threaten not only the environment but also the basic security of rural communities across the Eastern Region. As the two victims recover under medical supervision, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the security implications of illegal mining for the administration of President John Mahama. While the government remains focused on its national agenda, the violence at Behenase highlights the urgent need for sustained security presence in mining hotspots to prevent further bloodshed and restore peace to the affected districts. Local authorities are expected to investigate the source of the weapons and the identities of those involved in the shooting.

A group of commuters, including students in green uniforms and adults with bags, are seen waiting in a long queue on a sidewalk in Accra. The scene depicts people patiently standing by the roadside, likely waiting for commercial transport like trotros or buses near a busy intersection.
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Commuters and Transport Operators Lament Severe Congestion at Accra Central Market

Commuters and transport operators at the Accra Central Market are facing severe delays as heavy traffic congestion and the encroachment of traders onto public roads cripple movement during peak hours. Major transit hubs, including CMB, Tudu, and Rawlings Park, have seen a significant surge in both vehicular and pedestrian traffic, making navigation increasingly difficult for commercial drivers and passengers alike. The situation has reached a critical point, with the daily commute becoming a grueling experience for thousands who rely on these central transport points. The primary driver of this gridlock is the persistent takeover of roads and pavements by hawkers and traders. Observations in the area reveal that trading activities have spilled over from designated market spaces onto the asphalt, leaving little room for vehicles to maneuver. This encroachment not only narrows the driving lanes but also forces pedestrians into the paths of oncoming traffic, further slowing down the flow of movement. As traders set up stalls on sidewalks, the infrastructure meant to support urban mobility is being repurposed for commerce, leading to a breakdown in orderly transit. For commercial transport operators, the congestion translates into significantly longer turnaround times. Drivers who would normally complete several trips in a morning shift find themselves stuck in traffic for extended periods, reducing their daily earnings and efficiency. Consequently, passengers are left waiting at terminals for hours as fewer vehicles are able to return to the stations to pick up new travelers. Commuters have expressed growing frustration, calling on city authorities and traffic management teams to intervene and restore order to the market's transport network. Addressing the congestion at Accra Central Market will require a multi-faceted approach involving stricter enforcement of bylaws against street hawking and better traffic management strategies. Without immediate intervention, the bottlenecks at Tudu and Rawlings Park are likely to worsen, impacting the broader productivity of the capital city. As the hub remains a vital artery for trade and transit in Ghana, stakeholders are urging the Accra Metropolitan Assembly and the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) to implement sustainable solutions that balance the needs of traders with the necessity of free-flowing transport.

Security Agencies Bust Container-Stealing Syndicate Operating at Tema Port
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Security Agencies Bust Container-Stealing Syndicate Operating at Tema Port

Security agencies have dismantled a suspected cartel operating within the Tema Port, following the discovery of a sophisticated syndicate involved in the unauthorized removal and diversion of shipping containers. The operation, which has resulted in several arrests, came to light after a merchant unexpectedly located his cargo being offloaded at a private warehouse despite the goods never having undergone official customs clearance. This high-profile breach has sparked immediate concerns regarding the efficacy of current surveillance and documentation protocols at the nation's largest maritime gateway. The breach was uncovered when the rightful owner of a container spotted his merchandise being transferred from a shipping container into a facility in the Tema area. Subsequent investigations revealed that the syndicate had managed to bypass stringent port security protocols and mandatory customs processing procedures that are designed to prevent such leakages. This illicit activity suggests a level of coordinated effort to circumvent the electronic tracking systems meant to monitor every container from arrival to official release. The incident has raised significant alarms regarding the integrity of Ghana's primary maritime infrastructure. While the Ghana Revenue Authority and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority have historically implemented various electronic tracking and "paperless" port initiatives to improve transparency, this case illustrates persistent vulnerabilities. The ability of a cartel to physically move large-scale containers out of the port premises without valid documentation points to systemic gaps that the syndicate exploited, potentially leading to substantial revenue losses for the state. Following the initial arrests, authorities are reportedly widening their investigation to determine the full extent of the syndicate's reach and whether any port officials or security personnel were complicit in the scheme. This bust is expected to prompt a comprehensive review of security measures and exit protocols at Tema Port to prevent future diversions. For the business community, the incident underscores the ongoing challenges of port security and the necessity for rigorous vigilance in monitoring the supply chain to ensure cargo safety.