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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Police Arrest Four Suspects Including Two Teachers Following Rescue of Kidnapped Assin Fosu Resident

The Ghana Police Service has arrested four suspects, including two teachers, in connection with the kidnapping and torture of 30-year-old Bismarck Amo. The victim, a resident of Assin Fosu, was rescued on September 11, 2026, following a targeted police intervention dubbed "Operation Rescue the Victim and Arrest the Perpetrators." This rescue came five days after Mr. Amo was lured from his home to Kumasi, marking a significant success for law enforcement in the Central and Ashanti regions.\n\nAccording to police reports, the ordeal began on September 6 when Amo was enticed to Kumasi under false pretenses. Once in the hands of his abductors, he was subjected to severe physical torture while the suspects negotiated a ransom with his family. Despite the victim’s relatives paying an initial sum of GH"19,500, the kidnappers remained unsatisfied and demanded an additional GH"30,500. The authorities were able to intervene before any further payments were made, securing the victim's safety and taking the primary suspects into custody.\n\nInvestigations have revealed that the kidnapping was allegedly rooted in a dispute involving a reported fraud incident between Bismarck Amo and one of the suspects, identified as Mavis Badu Acheampong, a teacher. Police believe the group conspired to kidnap Amo as a means of extrajudicial retribution or debt recovery. Among those currently in custody are two teachers who allegedly used their professional positions to help facilitate the criminal scheme, which involved luring the victim to a location where he could be easily apprehended by the group.\n\nWhile four individuals are currently being held, the Ghana Police Service is actively pursuing several other accomplices who remain at large. This includes a military officer who has been implicated in the kidnapping plot. Authorities have assured the public that they will continue to track down all individuals involved to ensure they face the full rigors of the law. Meanwhile, Bismarck Amo is recovering from his injuries as the case proceeds toward the judicial phase and further investigations into the underlying fraud allegations continue.

Kenya’s Maasai Mara Adopts Electric Vehicles to Enhance Silent Wildlife Conservation
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Kenya’s Maasai Mara Adopts Electric Vehicles to Enhance Silent Wildlife Conservation

The Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya is undergoing a technological transformation as electric vehicles (EVs) begin to replace traditional internal combustion engines for wildlife monitoring and conservation efforts. This shift aims to minimize the ecological footprint of tourism and patrol activities while providing a more serene environment for both the animals and the rangers who protect them. The introduction of silent, emission-free transport marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s commitment to sustainable tourism and the preservation of its iconic biodiversity. Ranger Joshua Kijape, a dedicated guardian of the Mara’s vast landscape, is among those at the forefront of this transition. While patrolling the reserve, Kijape has observed the immediate benefits of the new technology as herds of antelope move gracefully through the plains, undisturbed by the near-silent approach of the electric fleet. Unlike the loud rumble of traditional diesel-powered 4x4s, which often startle wildlife, these eco-friendly vehicles allow rangers to monitor animal behavior and health more closely without causing distress to the inhabitants of the reserve. The adoption of electric vehicles in one of Africa's most famous game reserves signals a broader trend toward green energy in the conservation sector. Beyond the immediate benefits of reduced noise pollution, the move significantly cuts down on carbon emissions and the risk of soil or water contamination from fuel leaks. As Kenya continues to position itself as a leader in renewable energy and eco-tourism, the success of the Maasai Mara initiative could serve as a blueprint for other national parks across the continent. By integrating modern technology with traditional conservation practices, the reserve is ensuring that its majestic wildlife can be protected and observed in a more sustainable manner.

National Maulid Overcrowding Prompts Urgent Calls for Enhanced Event Safety Protocols
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National Maulid Overcrowding Prompts Urgent Calls for Enhanced Event Safety Protocols

The recent National Maulid celebration, hosted by the National Chief Imam, His Eminence Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, at New Fadama, has highlighted critical gaps in Ghana’s large-scale event management. While the religious gathering attracted an unprecedented number of attendees, the sheer volume of people overwhelmed the capacity of the Fadama School Park and its surrounding areas. This massive turnout, though a testament to the event's significance, resulted in severe overcrowding that raised immediate alarms regarding public safety and the adequacy of existing crowd control measures. Observers noted a stark contrast between the internal and external organization of the event. Inside the venue, security and protocols were described as well-managed, largely due to the presence of high-profile dignitaries and VVIPs. However, the situation outside the gates was reportedly chaotic. Attendees struggled to navigate dense crowds, facing narrow entry points and a lack of clear directional flow. This congestion created a high-risk environment where movement was severely restricted, mirroring conditions seen in previous public gatherings that have turned tragic. The recurring issue of crowd management at major national events has prompted calls for a proactive shift in how such gatherings are planned. Experts and commentators point to the historical context of crowd-related disasters in Ghana as a sobering reminder of what can happen when venue capacity is ignored or when entry and exit points are insufficient. The National Maulid serves as a wake-up call for organizers to prioritize the safety of the general public with the same rigor applied to the security of dignitaries. Moving forward, recommendations for future events include the implementation of wider entry and exit points, the deployment of more security personnel specifically tasked with managing the flow of people outside the venue, and the use of modern monitoring tools to assess real-time capacity. By integrating these active crowd control strategies, organizers can ensure that major celebrations like the National Maulid remain safe and accessible for all participants, preventing potential disasters before they occur.

Spanish Migration Minister Reports Voluntary Return of Over 5,300 Migrants from Ceuta to Morocco
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Spanish Migration Minister Reports Voluntary Return of Over 5,300 Migrants from Ceuta to Morocco

More than 5,300 migrants who entered the Spanish enclave of Ceuta during a significant surge in arrivals this past July have successfully returned to Morocco over the last month. This development marks a notable shift in the migration situation within the territory, which frequently serves as a primary entry point for individuals seeking to reach Europe from the North African coast. Spanish Migration Minister Angel Victor Torres confirmed that the vast majority of these individuals chose to return across the border voluntarily following a period of heightened activity at the frontier. According to official data released by the Spanish government, exactly 5,321 individuals have made the journey back to Morocco since August 10. This mass movement reflects a coordinated effort to manage the aftermath of the July influx, which saw a substantial number of people attempting to cross into the enclave. In addition to those who returned voluntarily, Minister Torres noted that another 90 individuals officially withdrew their pending requests for international protection, further contributing to the decrease in the migrant population currently housed within the enclave's administrative facilities. The situation in Ceuta remains a critical focal point for Spanish and Moroccan diplomatic and security cooperation. As an outpost of the European Union on the African continent, Ceuta faces unique logistical and humanitarian challenges whenever migration spikes occur. While the recent voluntary returns suggest a stabilization of the immediate crisis that began in July, authorities continue to monitor the border closely. This cycle of influx and return underscores the ongoing complexities of Mediterranean migration routes and the persistent pressure on infrastructure in Spain’s North African territories.

Bishop Daniel Obinim Disputes Marriage Validity While Cristiano Ronaldo Calls for Lifetime Fan Bans
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Bishop Daniel Obinim Disputes Marriage Validity While Cristiano Ronaldo Calls for Lifetime Fan Bans

In a series of developing stories spanning religious controversy and international sports ethics, Bishop Daniel Obinim of the International God’s Way Church has made startling claims regarding his past marriage, while football legend Cristiano Ronaldo is spearheading a campaign for stricter disciplinary measures in stadiums. These events highlight a growing intersection of personal legal disputes and the demand for accountability in the public sphere, as both figures navigate high-profile challenges. Bishop Daniel Obinim, the controversial leader of the International God’s Way Church, has reportedly claimed in a leaked audio message that the marriage certificate shared with his ex-wife, Florence, is a forgery. Addressing the message to his daughter, the Bishop issued a stern warning to Florence, cautioning her against presenting the document as evidence in any potential court proceedings. This revelation adds a new layer of complexity to the public dissolution of their relationship, raising questions about the legal standing of their union and the potential consequences of using forged documents in the Ghanaian judicial system. Simultaneously, on the international stage, Cristiano Ronaldo has called for lifetime bans for fans who engaged in insensitive chanting during matches. The incident involved fans chanting the name of the late Diogo Jota at his former teammate and close friend, Ruben Neves. According to reports, Jota, a former Liverpool forward and Portuguese international, tragically passed away at the age of 28 following a car crash in July of the previous year. Jota was a close friend of Neves, with whom he played both at Wolverhampton Wanderers and for the Portugal national team. Ronaldo has expressed his outrage at the lack of respect shown to his deceased teammate and the emotional toll such actions take on the surviving players. These disparate events underscore a broader theme of integrity and respect in both local and global contexts. While Bishop Obinim’s claims focus on the authenticity of legal records and the sanctity of marriage within the religious community, Ronaldo’s demands highlight the need for a more respectful culture within professional sports. As the legal implications for Florence Obinim remain uncertain and the footballing world weighs the necessity of lifetime bans, both stories continue to dominate public discussion, reflecting deep-seated concerns over truth, memory, and conduct in the modern era.

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Ghanaian Courts Sentence Multiple Individuals for Theft and Assault, Including 'Beasts of No Nation' Actor

Ghanaian circuit courts have handed down several prison sentences in recent legal proceedings, targeting crimes ranging from high-value commercial burglary to violent assault and the theft of public infrastructure. These rulings, spanning multiple jurisdictions from Tarkwa to Accra, underscore a rigorous judicial stance against property crime and acts of violence that threaten public safety. Among those convicted are a former child actor, an ex-convict involved in a significant business theft, and a young man who assaulted a local resident. In a notable case at the Tarkwa Circuit Court, 21-year-old Kingsford Quarshie, an ex-convict, was sentenced to eight years in prison. Quarshie was found guilty of unlawful entry, causing unlawful damage, and stealing after he and an accomplice broke into a business premises by damaging a burglar-proof window. His accomplice, 20-year-old student Joshua Hammond, received a 12-month sentence for abetment. The pair stole items and cash valued at GH"54,000, including a laptop and various provisions. While police recovered the stolen goods following a CCTV-aided investigation, GH"50,000 in cash remains unaccounted for. In the Ashanti Region, the Asante Abuakwa Circuit Court sentenced 19-year-old Aaron Atta to 18 months in prison for causing harm. The court heard that Atta was caught attempting to escape from the house of Owusu Boakye Yiadom, a local Disk Jockey in Nketia. During the confrontation, Atta stabbed Yiadom before fleeing the scene, though he was later apprehended with the help of the local community. Despite Atta's plea of not guilty, he was convicted after a full trial, while the victim received medical treatment for his injuries at local hospitals. Adding to the list of high-profile convictions, Emmanuel Nii Adom Quaye, the actor famously known as "Strika" from the film 'Beasts of No Nation', has been jailed for his involvement in the theft of public property. Quaye was apprehended while attempting to steal metal railings from the Kwashieman footbridge in Accra. News of his sentencing circulated after a video appeared on social media showing the actor discussing his legal situation with a blogger, marking a tragic turn for the former international film star. These cases highlight a consistent pattern of judicial enforcement across Ghana as the state seeks to protect both private enterprise and public infrastructure. The involvement of young men—ranging from students to former celebrities—in these criminal activities has prompted discussions regarding the socio-economic factors driving such behavior. As these individuals begin their respective sentences, the rulings serve as a clear deterrent, emphasizing that the destruction of public assets and the violation of personal security will meet firm legal consequences.

Accra Courts Remand Suspects in Amuah Couple Murder and Ofankor Child Defilement Cases
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Accra Courts Remand Suspects in Amuah Couple Murder and Ofankor Child Defilement Cases

Courts in Accra have taken decisive action in two harrowing criminal cases, remanding suspects involved in a gruesome double homicide and the alleged sexual abuse of a minor. These cases, which have sparked significant public concern regarding domestic safety and the protection of children, highlight the judiciary's ongoing efforts to process serious felony charges. In both instances, the suspects will remain in custody while the state prepares its prosecution, ensuring that these high-profile allegations receive the necessary legal scrutiny. In the first case, the Adabraka District Court remanded Abraham Newton Awundok, a security guard, in connection with the alleged murder of Dr. Jesse Amuah and his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Esi Amuah. The tragedy occurred on March 23, 2026, following a dispute over payment for household chores. Prosecutors allege that after the killing, Awundok concealed the couple's bodies in a septic tank before fleeing the country to Dubai. Following his arrest and repatriation to Ghana, the court adjourned his case to September 21, 2026, as the legal process for the double homicide begins in earnest. Separately, the Osu Court has remanded 87-year-old Yaw Gahornu for the alleged defilement of a nine-year-old girl in Ofankor, Accra. The abuse, which reportedly took place between July and August 2026, was uncovered after the child's mother noticed blood stains on her daughter’s clothing. The victim revealed that Gahornu had threatened her life to ensure her silence; however, the suspect was reportedly caught by his own granddaughter during a subsequent incident. Medical examinations have confirmed the child is physically stable but remains severely traumatized by the ordeal. These two cases reflect a disturbing trend of violence against vulnerable populations, including the elderly and the young. As the judicial proceedings continue, Gahornu is scheduled for his next court appearance on October 7, 2026. The outcomes of these trials are highly anticipated by the public, serving as a critical test of the justice system's ability to provide accountability for heinous crimes and protection for those most at risk within Ghanaian communities.

Indonesian Authorities Search for Survivors in Java Sea Shipwreck as Criminal Probes Begin in Bali and South Africa
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Indonesian Authorities Search for Survivors in Java Sea Shipwreck as Criminal Probes Begin in Bali and South Africa

International authorities are grappling with multiple tragedies this week, ranging from a major maritime disaster in Indonesia to grim discoveries in Bali and South Africa. In the Java Sea, a massive search and rescue operation is underway for over 100 people missing after a passenger vessel capsized in turbulent weather. Meanwhile, police in Bali have launched an investigation into the deaths of an Australian man and his two young children, and South African officials are facing public outcry after the body of a missing jogger was recovered in an area where several women have recently been found dead. The most urgent crisis is unfolding in the Java Sea, where Indonesian rescuers are battling severe weather to locate 129 people still missing from the Virgo Transport 8. The vessel, which was carrying 243 passengers, went missing due to severe conditions in a region often referred to as Indonesia’s "Bermuda Triangle." While 108 individuals have been successfully rescued and six deaths have been confirmed, the search remains difficult. More than 622 personnel, including the coast guard and navy, are utilizing ships and helicopters in a race against time. Officials noted that the ship was reportedly not overloaded, suggesting that the harsh environmental conditions were the primary factor in the disaster. In Bali, local police are investigating a suspected murder-suicide following the discovery of three bodies in a bungalow in Kuta. Damien John Shaw, a 56-year-old Australian man from Western Australia, was found dead alongside his two children, aged four and six. The grim discovery followed a welfare check requested by Shaw’s wife after a concerning phone conversation. The Western Australian Premier has described the event as a "very sad situation." While authorities are treating the case as a murder-suicide, the official cause and manner of death are yet to be finalized as forensic examinations continue. Simultaneously, in South Africa, the discovery of a missing runner's body has intensified fears over violence in Kempton Park, east of Johannesburg. Elizabeth Moselakgomo, who went missing during a routine run last week, was found dead, sparking a nationwide appeal for information. Her case has drawn significant attention because she is the fifth woman found dead in the same vicinity under similar circumstances—all discovered half-naked and bruised. The pattern has raised urgent questions regarding the safety of women in the area and the progress of police investigations into what appears to be a series of targeted attacks. These disparate events highlight the varied challenges facing emergency responders and law enforcement across the globe, from the unpredictable dangers of maritime travel to the complexities of domestic tragedies and violent crime. As Indonesian rescuers continue to scan the Java Sea for the missing, families in Bali and South Africa are left seeking answers and justice for their loved ones. Authorities in all three regions have pledged thorough investigations, though the immediate focus remains on recovering those lost at sea and ensuring public safety in the affected communities.

Ghana Army Welcomes GHANBATT 92 Following High-Stakes Lebanon Mission; UK MoD Reports Personnel Loss in Ukraine
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Ghana Army Welcomes GHANBATT 92 Following High-Stakes Lebanon Mission; UK MoD Reports Personnel Loss in Ukraine

The Ghana Army has officially declared the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) GHANBATT 92 mission accomplished, marking the return of troops after a year of challenging service. Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu, who oversaw the mission's conclusion, commended the battalion for their resilience in a highly volatile environment. During their deployment, personnel faced significant risks, including missile strikes stemming from the ongoing tensions between Hezbollah and the Israeli Defence Forces. Despite these dangers, the battalion successfully executed its mandate, which included essential humanitarian efforts and infrastructure repairs within their area of operation. To recognize the extraordinary circumstances of this tour, the military command has announced enhanced welfare measures for the returning personnel. The standard post-deployment leave has been extended from 30 to 42 days, providing troops with additional time to reintegrate and recover. Furthermore, the Ghana Armed Forces have initiated compensation processes for personnel who sustained injuries or suffered losses during the mission. This move underscores the commitment to supporting the men and women who serve in high-risk peacekeeping roles abroad, ensuring their professionalism is met with adequate care and recognition. In a separate development highlighting the risks of international military service, the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) has confirmed the death of a British Armed Forces member in Ukraine. The individual died in a road traffic incident rather than through hostile action. While the specific role of the deceased remains undisclosed to respect the privacy of the family, the British government acknowledged the presence of a small contingent in Ukraine focused on supporting local forces and providing security for diplomatic staff. These concurrent reports from the Ghana Armed Forces and the UK Ministry of Defence serve as a stark reminder of the various hazards military personnel encounter during international deployments. Whether engaged in peacekeeping missions like UNIFIL or providing logistical and security support in conflict zones, service members face life-threatening conditions even outside of direct combat. As GHANBATT 92 begins its reintegration process in Ghana, the focus remains on the continued professionalism of the armed forces in contributing to global stability and the inherent sacrifices required by such duties.

King Oyo Nyimba of Uganda Buried as Tooro Kingdom Faces Bitter Succession Row
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King Oyo Nyimba of Uganda Buried as Tooro Kingdom Faces Bitter Succession Row

Uganda's Tooro Kingdom is in a state of mourning and internal turmoil following the burial of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV on Saturday. The monarch, who gained international fame as the world’s youngest king when he was crowned at the age of three, passed away at the age of 34 after a battle with cancer. His death has not only left a void in the leadership of one of Uganda's historic constitutional monarchies but has also triggered a significant succession crisis that has gripped the nation’s attention. While the burial rites were conducted with the solemnity befitting a traditional ruler, the atmosphere surrounding the palace is increasingly tense. A bitter dispute has erupted within the royal family regarding who should succeed the late monarch. King Oyo’s reign, which spanned nearly three decades, began in 1995 following the death of his father, King Patrick Matthew Kaboyo Olimi III. Because he ascended to the throne at such a tender age, his development and leadership were closely watched both within Uganda and by the international community. The current row over succession threatens to destabilize the Tooro Kingdom, which is one of the four traditional kingdoms legally recognized under the Ugandan constitution. Sources indicate that factions within the royal circle are at odds over the rightful heir, as the late King Oyo died at a relatively young age without a clearly established or publicly undisputed path for his replacement. This internal friction has moved beyond the palace walls, becoming a subject of intense public debate and concern across Uganda, as citizens look for stability in their cultural institutions. As the Tooro people navigate this period of transition, the eyes of the Ugandan government and the wider East African region remain on the royal family's ability to resolve their differences. The outcome of this dispute will determine the future direction of the kingdom and how it maintains its cultural relevance in a modernizing state. For now, the legacy of King Oyo as a symbol of youth and tradition remains overshadowed by the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the leadership vacuum created by his untimely passing.

Accra-Kumasi Expressway Development Plans Revealed as Tamale Secures Land for New Fire Station
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Accra-Kumasi Expressway Development Plans Revealed as Tamale Secures Land for New Fire Station

Significant advancements in Ghana’s infrastructure and public safety sectors have been announced, ranging from a major high-speed road network to enhanced emergency response capabilities in the Northern Region. Detailed plans for the Accra-Kumasi Expressway have been unveiled, promising a transformation in national logistics, while the Paramount Chief of Bamvim has taken a proactive step toward community safety by donating land for a critical new fire station in Tamale. Engineer Francisco, the Managing Director of Accra-Kumasi Expressway Limited, recently shared the technical specifications for the 198.7-kilometer project. The Class A highway is designed as a three-lane dual carriageway and will feature an extensive array of engineering landmarks, including eight grade-separated interchanges, 11 vehicle overpasses, and 55 mainline bridges. This infrastructure is expected to yield substantial economic benefits by reducing the travel distance between the two cities by 50 kilometers, cutting journey times by 50%, and lowering overall travel costs by approximately 40%. In tandem with these southern infrastructure gains, the Northern Region is set to see an improvement in emergency services through a donation by the Paramount Chief of Bamvim, Naa Abdulai Ziblim. The Chief has allocated one acre of land in the Jongshegu area of Tamale to the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS). During a site visit, ACFOI Joseph Koranteng, the Northern Regional Commander of the GNFS, praised the initiative, noting that the new station is vital for protecting the rapidly growing population in Jongshegu and surrounding communities. Naa Abdulai Ziblim has reaffirmed his dedication to development projects that prioritize the safety of his people, urging various stakeholders to provide the necessary support for the timely completion of the modern facility. These combined efforts—modernizing national transport corridors and expanding localized emergency infrastructure—underscore a coordinated push toward safer and more efficient development across the country. As the GNFS prepares to develop the site, both the expressway and the fire station projects represent key steps in meeting the demands of Ghana's growing urban centers.

Ghanaian Security Forces Crack Down on Narcotics: NACOC and Police Intercept Massive Cocaine Network and Local Distribution Point
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Ghanaian Security Forces Crack Down on Narcotics: NACOC and Police Intercept Massive Cocaine Network and Local Distribution Point

Ghanaian security agencies have recorded significant breakthroughs in the fight against illegal drug trafficking, dismantling parts of both an international cocaine syndicate and a local narcotics distribution point. In a high-profile operation, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) arrested three suspects in Ghana linked to a massive cocaine shipment valued at approximately €225 million ($261 million). This enforcement action follows the seizure of nearly 3.9 tonnes of cocaine by French customs at the port of Dunkirk, which had been concealed in a container originating from Ghana. Investigations by NACOC suggest that the three arrested individuals allegedly facilitated the trafficking activities of Jos Leijdekkers, a notorious Dutch fugitive. The commission emphasized that these arrests are a testament to Ghana’s strengthened resolve to collaborate with international partners in neutralizing global drug cartels. While the investigation remains ongoing, NACOC has assured the public that the legal rights of the suspects are being strictly observed as they probe the depth of the network's local connections. On the domestic front, the Ashaiman District Police successfully intercepted a significant quantity of local narcotics during a late-night operation on September 12, 2026. At approximately 11:30 p.m., officers on a routine patrol acted on intelligence regarding suspicious activities near the New Tulaku Cow Market. This led to the arrest of 49-year-old trader Issaka Mohammed at a known 'ghetto' in the area. Upon searching a sack in Mohammed's possession, police discovered 37 slabs of compressed dried plant material suspected to be Indian hemp. Both cases highlight a two-pronged approach by Ghanaian authorities to tackle the narcotics trade at various levels of the supply chain. While NACOC focuses on the high-level transnational shipments that threaten Ghana's reputation in the international community, local police units are intensifying patrols to disrupt the retail and wholesale distribution of illicit substances within residential neighborhoods. Issaka Mohammed remains in custody and is expected to be arraigned in court shortly, as security forces continue to monitor known drug hubs across the Greater Accra Region.