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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Accra Regional Police Recover AK-47 and 186 Ammunition Rounds Following Fatal Shootout in Agbogbloshie

The Accra Regional Police Command has successfully intercepted a group of suspected armed robbers, recovering a lethal cache of weaponry including an AK-47 assault rifle and 186 rounds of ammunition. The operation, which took place in the Agbogbloshie area, followed a fierce exchange of gunfire between law enforcement officers and the suspects. The police intervention was initiated after receiving high-level intelligence indicating that a four-man gang was en route to stage a robbery at a Shell Filling Station in the vicinity. This proactive engagement prevented what could have been a violent confrontation at a public commercial site. The confrontation unfolded at the Galoway Police Barrier, where the suspects were intercepted by police personnel during their approach. During the ensuing shootout, one of the four suspects sustained critical gunshot wounds and was subsequently transported to a hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The remaining three suspects managed to evade capture, fleeing the scene into the surrounding area. In addition to the high-powered rifle and extensive ammunition, officers also seized two unregistered motorbikes believed to have been used by the gang to facilitate their planned criminal operations. This recovery represents a significant victory for the Accra Regional Police Command as they continue to crack down on violent crime within the capital. The sheer volume of ammunition recovered—186 rounds—highlights the extreme danger the suspects posed and the potential for mass casualties had the robbery proceeded as planned. Authorities are currently conducting a manhunt for the three escaped suspects and are working to identify the deceased man. The police have appealed to the public for any information that might lead to the arrest of those who fled. The incident underscores the ongoing security challenges in busy commercial hubs like Agbogbloshie and the critical role of intelligence-led policing in preventing violent offenses. As the investigation continues, the police have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing security measures across the region to protect citizens and businesses. The recovered motorbikes are currently being analyzed for forensic evidence that could assist in identifying the broader network of the criminal group and preventing future strikes.

Upper West Regional Police Intercept 192 Parcels of Cocaine; Two Suspects Remanded in Wa
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Upper West Regional Police Intercept 192 Parcels of Cocaine; Two Suspects Remanded in Wa

The Upper West Regional Police Command has arrested two individuals, 26-year-old Abdulai Isaac and Iddrisu Kamaldeen, following the interception of 192 compressed parcels of suspected cocaine. The operation, which took place on September 6, 2026, was the result of a targeted intelligence-led surveillance mission aimed at disrupting a narcotics trafficking route between Kumasi and Wa. The suspects appeared before the Wa Circuit Court shortly after their arrest, where they were remanded into police custody as authorities continue to investigate the broader network behind the shipment. According to police reports, security officials intercepted Abdulai Isaac at the ESP Bus Station in Wa shortly after his arrival from Kumasi. A thorough search of his belongings led to the discovery of the 192 compressed wraps concealed within his backpack. During subsequent interrogations, Iddrisu Kamaldeen was identified as the intended customer for the illegal substance and was promptly apprehended by the police. A field test conducted on the seized parcels confirmed that the substance was indeed cocaine, marking a significant victory for local drug enforcement efforts. The Wa Circuit Court has scheduled the suspects to reappear on October 9, 2026. In the interim, the Upper West Regional Police Command is intensifying its efforts to identify and arrest other associates linked to this trafficking operation. This successful bust highlights the increasing vigilance of Ghanaian security agencies in monitoring transit hubs and intercepting the flow of illicit substances across regional borders. Police officials have urged the public to continue providing credible information to help combat organized crime and narcotics trafficking in the region.

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Ronald Koeman Announces Passing of Wife Bartina in Touching Family Tribute

Ronald Koeman, the prominent Dutch football manager and former Barcelona legend, has announced the heartbreaking passing of his wife, Bartina Koeman. The news has sparked a wave of condolences from across the global footballing community, as the former Netherlands national team coach shared the update regarding his long-time partner and the matriarch of their family. The announcement marks a significant personal loss for one of the sport's most recognizable figures, whose career has spanned several decades at the highest levels of European football. In a poignant public tribute, Koeman expressed his profound grief while honoring his wife's memory. He described Bartina as his "beautiful wife" and emphasized her vital role within their household as the family's "dearest mother and grandmother." The couple's relationship was well-known within the sports world, as Bartina had been a constant support by Ronald’s side throughout his storied journey as both a world-class player and a high-profile manager at clubs like Barcelona, Everton, and Southampton. Koeman is widely celebrated for his contributions to the sport, particularly his tenure leading the Dutch national team and his historic period at FC Barcelona, where he is immortalized for scoring the winning goal in the 1992 European Cup Final. While the family has requested privacy as they navigate this difficult period, the announcement has resonated deeply with fans and former colleagues. Those who worked alongside Koeman have noted the strength of the bond he shared with Bartina, who was often seen supporting him during the high-pressure moments of his coaching career. As the football world mourns alongside the Koeman family, formal tributes are expected to continue from the various clubs and international organizations Ronald has served over the years. The loss represents a somber chapter for the Koeman family, who remain central figures in Dutch sports culture. The impact of Bartina’s passing will be felt throughout the close-knit football circles in Europe and beyond, as the community reflects on the legacy of a woman who was deeply cherished by her husband, children, and grandchildren.

Three Dead in Los Angeles News Helicopter Crash During Coverage of Fatal Transit Accident in Chatsworth
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Three Dead in Los Angeles News Helicopter Crash During Coverage of Fatal Transit Accident in Chatsworth

A news helicopter operated by Angel City Air, providing coverage for NBC Los Angeles and Telemundo 52, crashed in Chatsworth, Los Angeles, on Tuesday evening, resulting in three fatalities. The incident occurred around 7:00 PM local time while the crew was reporting on a severe earlier traffic collision involving a city bus and an SUV. The crash claimed the lives of pilot George Marciniw and aerial photojournalist Eliana Moreno, along with a third individual on the ground whose identity is currently pending notification. Two additional people were reportedly injured in the aftermath of the crash. Eyewitnesses near the crash site described seeing the helicopter exhibit erratic flight behavior before it plummeted to the ground. The impact ignited an intense blaze that quickly spread to nearby vehicles and storage containers. Over 70 firefighters from the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the scene, working to suppress the fire and manage the chaotic environment. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and California Governor Gavin Newsom released statements expressing their deep sorrow, noting that the community was already reeling from the fatal bus collision that the news crew had been dispatched to cover. The tragedy has reignited urgent discussions regarding the inherent risks of aerial journalism and the safety of news-gathering operations in high-pressure breaking news environments. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) officials have launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the mechanical or human factors that led to the crash. As the industry mourns the loss of Moreno and Marciniw, federal authorities will investigate maintenance records and flight data to prevent similar occurrences in the future, while local officials work to support the recovery of the injured and the community.

78-Year-Old Father Ali Mohammed Appeals to IGP and Government Over Missing Son Fusseini Mohammed
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78-Year-Old Father Ali Mohammed Appeals to IGP and Government Over Missing Son Fusseini Mohammed

Ali Mohammed, a 78-year-old father, has issued a heart-wrenching appeal to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, and the Ghanaian government to intensify efforts in the search for his missing son, Fusseini Mohammed. The younger Mohammed has been unaccounted for for nearly a year, a period that has plunged his family into a state of profound emotional distress and agonizing uncertainty. The elderly father’s public plea highlights the desperate measures families often take when standard investigative procedures seem to stall, turning to the highest levels of authority for hope and resolution. The emotional weight of the disappearance is particularly heavy for the senior Mohammed, who expressed a poignant desire for closure during his appeal. He voiced a deep-seated fear that his age might prevent him from ever seeing his son again, asking rhetorically whether he would pass away without Fusseini there to witness his burial. This sense of urgency is driven by both paternal love and the cultural significance of family presence during life’s final transitions. The family has spent the last several months navigating the psychological trauma of not knowing Fusseini’s whereabouts or his current state of well-being. By specifically naming IGP Christian Tetteh Yohuno, Ali Mohammed is calling for the direct involvement of the Ghana Police Service's top leadership. The appeal seeks to elevate the case from a routine missing person report to a priority investigation, reflecting a broader societal expectation for the state to provide security and answers to its citizens. The family's decision to go public underscores the challenges faced by many Ghanaians in similar positions, where the lack of regular updates from law enforcement can lead to a sense of abandonment and frustration. As this story develops, it serves as a sobering reminder of the human lives behind the statistics of missing persons in the country. The next steps depend heavily on the response of the police administration and the government’s willingness to provide the necessary resources for a thorough search. For Ali Mohammed, the goal remains simple yet profound: to be reunited with his son and find peace in his twilight years. The case continues to resonate as a test of the responsiveness of Ghana's security agencies to the pleas of the vulnerable.

Tragic Motorbike Accident in Kade Claims Lives of Three Brothers During Wedding Festivities
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Tragic Motorbike Accident in Kade Claims Lives of Three Brothers During Wedding Festivities

The Kade community in the Kwaebibirem Municipality of the Eastern Region has been plunged into deep mourning following a horrific motorbike accident that claimed the lives of three biological brothers. The incident occurred while the siblings were reportedly traveling to welcome a bride, turning a period of family celebration into a scene of immense grief. The sudden loss has left residents of the area in a state of shock as they grapple with the magnitude of the tragedy affecting a single household. The victims have been identified as 26-year-old Abubakar Kamiru, 21-year-old Abdul Bashiru Fataw, and 17-year-old Shamshu Seidu. Abubakar Kamiru, the eldest of the three, had recently married, making the timing of the accident particularly poignant. The brothers were active members of their community, and their untimely passing represents a significant loss to the youth population of the Kwaebibirem Municipality. While specific details regarding the cause of the crash are currently under investigation by local authorities, the event highlights the persistent dangers associated with motorbike travel in the region. Motorbike accidents continue to be a leading cause of road fatalities in Ghana, often involving young individuals. This tragedy underscores the urgent need for increased safety awareness and stricter enforcement of traffic regulations to protect commuters on both urban and rural roads. As the family prepares to lay the three brothers to rest, the Kade community has rallied to offer support and condolences. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and has prompted renewed discussions among local leaders regarding road safety measures within the municipality. The deaths of Abubakar, Abdul, and Shamshu leave a void that will be felt by their family and the entire Kade township for a long time to come.

Four Ghanaians Remanded Over €225 Million Cocaine Shipment Seized in France
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Four Ghanaians Remanded Over €225 Million Cocaine Shipment Seized in France

Four Ghanaian nationals have been remanded in custody following their alleged involvement in a massive drug trafficking operation involving approximately four tonnes of cocaine. The suspects—Desmond Koranteng Curiel, Musah Attah, Kweku Otchere, and Jessica Hartog—appeared in court on September 16, 2026, where they were ordered to be held for four weeks. They are accused of conspiring to export the illicit cargo, which has an estimated street value of €225 million (approximately $261.45 million), from Ghana to France. The case came to light after French authorities intercepted nearly 3.9 tonnes of cocaine hidden within a shipment of plastic waste that originated from Ghana. While the four Ghanaians are currently in state custody, a fifth suspect, a Dutch national identified as Jos Leijdekkers (also known as "Bolle Jos"), remains at large. Investigations are currently focused on tracing the exact departure point of the consignment from Ghana and identifying any potential security breaches at the nation's ports that allowed such a significant volume of narcotics to be exported. Beyond the immediate arrests, investigative reports suggest that the syndicate's operations in the region may be even more extensive. It is alleged that additional quantities of cocaine linked to the same network remain hidden within Ghana, with plans for future transport to Europe and other international markets. This latest seizure contributes to a staggering total of over 12.7 tonnes of cocaine intercepted in related transnational operations over the past 17 months, highlighting the persistent challenge of drug trafficking through West African corridors. The four suspects are scheduled to reappear in court on October 13, 2026, as security agencies continue to collaborate with international partners to dismantle the trafficking network. The scale of the seizure has renewed calls for heightened vigilance and stricter oversight at Ghana’s points of entry and exit to prevent the country from being utilized as a major transit hub for global narcotics syndicates.

Major General Lawrence Gbetanu (arrowed), Chief of Army staff, congratulating the peace keeping officers from Lebanon. Picture: BENEDICT OBUOBI
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GHANBATT 92 Peacekeepers Return to Accra After Successful Mission in Southern Lebanon

Six hundred and fifteen personnel of the Ghana Battalion 92 (GHANBATT 92) have successfully returned to Accra after completing a high-stakes peacekeeping mission with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). The contingent arrived at the Kotoka International Airport to a warm reception, marking the end of a deployment characterized by both significant operational challenges and professional triumphs. Despite the escalating volatility in Southern Lebanon, the battalion was commended for its unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and security in a region deeply affected by ongoing hostilities. Operating within a complex environment marked by intense conflict between Israeli forces and Hezbollah, GHANBATT 92 went beyond traditional security duties. The personnel were instrumental in undertaking critical infrastructure repairs and providing essential humanitarian assistance to local populations caught in the crossfire. Their performance has earned international accolades, with military observers noting the resilience and high level of professionalism displayed by the Ghanaian troops under fire. These efforts have solidified Ghana's reputation as a reliable and effective contributor to global peacekeeping operations. Major General Gbetanu, speaking at the welcoming ceremony, praised the soldiers for their exceptional bravery and tactical discipline. He emphasized that the nation recognizes the risks they faced and assured the returning troops that the military command would provide comprehensive support for their reintegration into domestic duties. Furthermore, the General confirmed that compensation packages are being processed for those directly affected by the conflict, ensuring that the sacrifices made by the personnel are properly acknowledged and addressed. As a standard procedure following such demanding deployments, all personnel of GHANBATT 92 have been granted a special 42-day leave to recover and reconnect with their families. This period of rest is seen as a vital component of the Ghana Armed Forces' post-deployment protocol, focusing on the mental and physical well-being of the troops. The successful conclusion of this mission serves as a testament to the continued strength of Ghana's military under the leadership of President John Mahama, as the country continues to play a pivotal role in international diplomacy and security.

Bampoe Addo Family Mourns Double Tragedy Following Death of Twin Brother of Late CLOGSAG Executive Secretary
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Bampoe Addo Family Mourns Double Tragedy Following Death of Twin Brother of Late CLOGSAG Executive Secretary

The Bampoe Addo family is navigating a period of profound grief following the passing of Sidney Nii Oko Bampoe Addo. This loss comes as a devastating second blow to the family, occurring shortly after the death of Sidney’s twin brother, Dr. Isaac Atteh Bampoe Addo, the prominent former Executive Secretary of the Civil and Local Government Staff Association, Ghana (CLOGSAG). The dual loss of the twin brothers in such quick succession has cast a heavy shadow of mourning over their kin and the professional circles they inhabited. Dr. Isaac Atteh Bampoe Addo was a highly respected figure within Ghana’s labor and administrative sectors. He passed away on August 21, 2026, after succumbing to a brief illness. During his notable tenure as the Executive Secretary of CLOGSAG, Dr. Bampoe Addo was recognized as a staunch advocate for the rights and welfare of civil servants nationwide. His leadership was defined by a commitment to improving the working conditions of local government staff and ensuring their concerns were addressed at the highest levels of national administration. The news of Sidney Nii Oko Bampoe Addo’s subsequent passing has intensified the family's distress during this challenging time. While specific details regarding the circumstances of Sidney's death have not been extensively disclosed, the loss of both twins within a narrow timeframe represents an extraordinary hardship. The news has prompted an outpouring of sympathy and condolences from colleagues, friends, and members of the public who are moved by the family's consecutive bereavements. As the family prepares to lay the brothers to rest, the dual tragedy serves as a poignant reminder of the deep bonds of family. Funeral arrangements and formal tributes for Sidney are expected to be announced in due course, likely to be coordinated with the memorial plans already in motion for Dr. Isaac Atteh Bampoe Addo. The family continues to receive support as they seek to honor the lives and individual legacies of the two brothers together.

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Police Apprehend Intruder at Home of Former National Signals Bureau Chief Kwabena Adu-Boahene

Police have taken into custody a suspect following a daring early-morning break-in at the residence of Kwabena Adu-Boahene, the former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB). The incident, which occurred at approximately 1:30 am on September 15, 2026, saw an unidentified intruder bypass multiple layers of security to gain access to the property. Despite the breach of the home’s perimeter, the swift intervention of security personnel on-site led to the immediate apprehension of the suspect, preventing any further escalation of the situation. According to preliminary reports, the intruder demonstrated a level of persistence or technical capability by successfully compromising the residence’s electric fence and neutralizing its alarm systems. These security features are generally considered robust, making the breach a matter of significant concern. Once the intruder was detected and detained by the security detail, he was subsequently turned over to the Airport Police Station, where he is currently being held as investigations into the matter begin. The incident has sparked discussions regarding the security of former high-ranking state officials, particularly those who have served in sensitive national security roles like Mr. Adu-Boahene. As the former head of the NSB, an agency central to Ghana’s intelligence and electronic surveillance architecture, any security threat against him is viewed with heightened seriousness. The police have not yet released a statement regarding the suspect's identity or whether he was armed at the time of the arrest. As the Airport Police continue their inquiries, the focus will likely remain on determining the suspect’s motives—whether the break-in was a common criminal act or a targeted intrusion. This development highlights the persistent need for vigilance and the importance of human security elements even when sophisticated technological systems are in place. Further updates are expected as the police formalize charges against the suspect and conduct further forensic checks on the breached security systems.

Ghana Police Service to Launch TRAFFITECH-GH Automated Traffic Enforcement System on October 1
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Ghana Police Service to Launch TRAFFITECH-GH Automated Traffic Enforcement System on October 1

The Ghana Police Service is set to revolutionize road safety management with the full implementation of its automated traffic law enforcement program, TRAFFITECH-GH, beginning October 1, 2026. This initiative, announced by the Public Affairs Directorate, represents a significant technological leap in the country’s efforts to curb road traffic violations. By transitioning to an automated system, the police aim to reduce human intervention in traffic policing while ensuring that offenders are held accountable through consistent and reliable digital evidence, marking a new era of technology-driven law enforcement in the country. TRAFFITECH-GH is specifically designed to address the persistent challenge of road indiscipline, which has long been a major contributor to accidents and fatalities across Ghana's road network. The system utilizes advanced cameras and sensors to monitor various traffic infractions, such as speeding and running red lights, in real-time. This move aligns with broader national efforts under the administration of President John Mahama to modernize public infrastructure and enhance the efficiency of law enforcement agencies. The automation is expected to provide a strong deterrent effect, encouraging motorists to adhere strictly to traffic regulations even in the absence of a physical police presence. Beyond just capturing violations, the implementation of TRAFFITECH-GH is expected to streamline the process of issuing citations and managing traffic data. The Public Affairs Directorate emphasized that the system will enhance compliance by ensuring that penalties are processed accurately and delivered to vehicle owners promptly. This shift toward a more transparent and data-driven approach is anticipated to foster a culture of responsibility among drivers and potentially reduce the incidence of disputes or irregularities often associated with manual traffic stops and traditional enforcement methods. As the October 1 launch date approaches, the Ghana Police Service is expected to intensify public education campaigns to sensitize road users on the technicalities of the system and the necessity of strict compliance. This transition marks a pivotal moment in Ghana’s road safety strategy, reflecting a growing commitment to leveraging technology for public order and safety. Citizens and stakeholders alike will be watching closely to see how the deployment of TRAFFITECH-GH impacts road safety statistics and overall traffic flow in major urban centers and along national highways in the coming months.

Major General Maxwell Obuba Mantey - Director General of NACOC
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NACOC Arrests Three Ghanaians Linked to $261m Cocaine Shipment and Dutch Fugitive 'Bolle Jos'

Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has apprehended three Ghanaian nationals in connection with a massive $261 million cocaine shipment recently seized in France. The arrests follow a sophisticated intelligence-led operation targeting a syndicate linked to Jos Leijdekkers, a high-profile Dutch fugitive known in criminal circles as 'Bolle Jos.' This significant enforcement action underscores Ghana’s intensifying efforts to dismantle international drug trafficking networks that attempt to utilize the country’s maritime infrastructure for illicit transit. According to NACOC officials, the investigation gained significant momentum following the seizure of nearly 3.9 tonnes of cocaine by French customs at the port of Dunkirk. The narcotics were reportedly concealed within a container originating from Ghana, prompting a deep-dive investigation into the local facilitators. NACOC Director General, Major General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, revealed that the suspects had been under close surveillance for some time before being taken into custody during a weekend sting operation. This coordinated effort was bolstered by intelligence shared between international security agencies and local operatives. Francis Opoku Amoah, NACOC's Acting Director of Public Affairs and International Relations, emphasized that the suspects are alleged to have directly facilitated the trafficking activities of Leijdekkers' network. While the specific identities of the three Ghanaians have not yet been released to the public, the Commission has assured that the investigation remains active and that all legal rights of the accused are being strictly observed. The scale of the shipment, valued at approximately €225 million, highlights the immense stakes involved and the strategic importance of the blow dealt to the 'Bolle Jos' criminal organization. This high-profile bust reflects Ghana’s pivotal role in global counter-narcotics cooperation and its commitment to international security. By dismantling local cells linked to European fugitives, NACOC aims to deter international cartels from viewing West African ports as low-risk transit points. Moving forward, the Commission intends to deepen its collaboration with European and regional partners to track remaining affiliates of the syndicate, reaffirming the government's zero-tolerance policy toward the narcotics trade and organized crime.