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 of the suspects
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Ashanti Regional Police Arrest Seven Suspects and Seize 860 Tramadol Tablets in Narcotics Crackdown

The Ashanti Regional Police Command, supported by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Special Operations Team, has arrested seven individuals and seized a significant quantity of narcotics in a coordinated crackdown across multiple locations. The intelligence-led operations, conducted on August 20, 2026, targeted drug-related activities in Ejisu, Abrepo Junction, and Atimatim. Authorities recovered 860 Tramadol tablets and capsules, alongside other suspected narcotic substances and an unspecified amount of currency, marking a significant blow to local illicit drug distribution networks. In Ejisu, police apprehended 43-year-old Nana Kwadwo Adu and 48-year-old Nana Kwame Fella. The operation at Abrepo Junction led to the arrest of four suspects: Stephanie Anokye, 23; Roland Anokye, 20; Gideon Owusu, 30; and Grace Fosua, 27. Additionally, 27-year-old Kofi Opoku was taken into custody during a raid at Atimatim. These arrests reflect a broad-based effort to dismantle narcotics hubs that have been under police surveillance following intelligence reports and community tips. Beyond the 860 Tramadol tablets, investigators seized pill pouches containing dried leaves suspected to be narcotics. All seven suspects are currently in police custody and are assisting with ongoing investigations. The police are particularly focused on tracing the supply chain of these substances to identify the primary sources and any broader criminal syndicates operating within the Ashanti Region or across regional borders. The Ashanti Regional Police Command has reiterated its commitment to ensuring public safety and combating the spread of unregistered and illegal drugs. Officials have urged members of the community to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to law enforcement. This collaborative approach between the police and the public is viewed as essential for maintaining security and addressing the social and criminal implications of drug-related issues in the region.

Interpol’s Operation Jackal IV Dismantles Global West African Cyber-Crime Networks
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Interpol’s Operation Jackal IV Dismantles Global West African Cyber-Crime Networks

Interpol has successfully coordinated a massive global crackdown on West African organized crime syndicates, resulting in the arrest of 58 individuals and the identification of 263 suspects. Codenamed "Operation Jackal IV," the initiative spanned 22 countries across six continents from November 2025 to June 2026. The operation primarily targeted notorious networks such as the Nigerian Black Axe group, which have become increasingly sophisticated in executing cyber-enabled financial fraud on a global scale. This high-stakes intervention underscores a growing international commitment to disrupting the financial foundations of West African criminal enterprises. The investigation shed light on the diverse and predatory tactics employed by these groups, ranging from large-scale investment scams to emotionally manipulative romance fraud. Beyond financial theft, the operation revealed a disturbing trend in sextortion, with some victims reported to be as young as 14. These syndicates utilize advanced methods to launder their illicit gains, frequently moving funds through complex cryptocurrency transactions and business email compromise schemes. Interpol noted that while these groups are digital-first, they are often linked to serious violent crimes, making their dismantling a priority for global security. Significant breakthroughs were recorded in several participating nations, including South Africa, Italy, Romania, and Argentina. In South Africa alone, law enforcement authorities seized approximately $2.67 million in illicit funds and successfully blocked 257 bank accounts tied to fraudulent activities. These financial seizures represent a critical blow to the operational capacity of the Black Axe and other affiliated groups, highlighting the efficacy of data sharing and cross-border cooperation in tracking digital money trails that were once thought to be anonymous. Operation Jackal IV serves as a stark reminder of the evolving nature of organized crime and the necessity for a unified global response. By combining the resources of 22 different nations, Interpol has demonstrated that even the most fragmented and technologically adept networks can be breached. As cyber-crime continues to transcend national borders, the success of this operation provides a blueprint for future international efforts to protect vulnerable populations and maintain the integrity of global financial systems.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Addresses Passport Portal Technical Glitch Amid Global Reports of Fan Injuries and AI Music Bans
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Ministry of Foreign Affairs Addresses Passport Portal Technical Glitch Amid Global Reports of Fan Injuries and AI Music Bans

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that Ghana's online passport application portal, passport.mfa.gov.gh, is currently experiencing significant technical difficulties. This disruption has left many citizens unable to apply for or process their travel documents. In response, the Ministry’s technical team has partnered with the National Signals Bureau to identify and rectify the underlying issues. The Ministry has issued a formal apology to the public for the inconvenience and has committed to providing a status update as soon as the portal is restored to full functionality. Moving to international developments, safety concerns have dominated the sporting headlines following a distressing incident in the Dutch Eredivisie. During a league match between Feyenoord and SC Cambuur, supporters caused a ten-minute suspension of play after discharging multiple red flares and fireworks. The incident resulted in several fans suffering from burns, hearing damage, and eye injuries. The event has reignited debates regarding stadium security and the dangers of pyrotechnics in high-capacity public venues, as authorities look to tighten regulations to protect spectators. In the realm of technology and culture, the music industry is grappling with the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, leading to landmark regulatory changes in Australia. The Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) has implemented a new code that effectively bans songs largely or entirely created by AI from the national music charts. This decision follows a controversy involving DJ Josh Fawaz’s cover of Madonna’s 'Like A Prayer,' which faced significant backlash after it was revealed that AI played a major role in its production. Under the new ARIA rules, any eligible release must be predominantly human-made, requiring written lyrics and human lead vocals to ensure that the charts continue to celebrate genuine human artistry. These diverse developments—from Ghana’s administrative technical hurdles to safety crises in European football and the ethical regulation of AI in the arts—highlight a global trend of institutions struggling to manage the intersection of technology, public safety, and professional standards. As the Ministry of Foreign Affairs works to restore digital services for Ghanaians, international bodies are similarly tasked with updating their protocols to address the evolving challenges of the modern era.

Mother in Gomoa Dominase Accuses Husband, Emmanuel Ekumfi, of Defiling Their Four Underage Daughters
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Mother in Gomoa Dominase Accuses Husband, Emmanuel Ekumfi, of Defiling Their Four Underage Daughters

Antoinette Boakye, a resident of Gomoa Dominase in the Central Region, has leveled grave allegations against her husband, Emmanuel Ekumfi, accusing him of sexually abusing their four underage daughters. The disturbing claims came to light following a confrontation between the couple, which Mrs. Boakye reports led to a violent physical altercation. She alleges that her husband attempted to suffocate her after she discovered the abuse and challenged him, marking a dangerous escalation in what she describes as a volatile domestic situation. According to Mrs. Boakye, the alleged sexual abuse of the children was not an isolated event but occurred alongside a long history of physical and emotional abuse she endured throughout their marriage. The mother provided a harrowing account of the household's internal environment, suggesting that the pattern of domestic violence had persisted for years before reaching this critical point. Her public outcry serves as a desperate plea for justice for her children and safety for herself after the alleged attempt on her life. This case highlights the critical intersection of domestic violence and child protection within the Central Region. While specific details regarding police intervention were not immediately available, such serious allegations typically fall under the jurisdiction of the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) of the Ghana Police Service. The immediate focus remains on the welfare and medical psychological support for the four young survivors, as social welfare advocates and local authorities are expected to investigate the matter thoroughly to ensure legal accountability.

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Adams Adder Almeida Murder Trial Adjourned as Teshie Fisherman Godwin Tetteh is Jailed for Ritual Assault

The Adabraka District Court has adjourned the murder trial of Adams Adder Almeida and Bala Bilyon to September 28, 2026, as the Greater Accra region sees a flurry of judicial activity involving violent crime. While the Tuba murder case involves the fatal shooting of a car dealer, another court in the region has concurrently sentenced a 22-year-old fisherman to prison for a violent confrontation during a traditional rite in Teshie. These cases highlight the diverse nature of criminal matters currently being processed within the Ghanaian legal system during the current administration. In the Tuba case, Adams Adder Almeida stands accused of the August 6, 2026, shooting of car dealer Rahman Mohammed and his wife, Christiana Fosu. The prosecution reported that Almeida allegedly carried out the attack based on grievances his brother, Bilyon, held against Mohammed. While Mr. Mohammed was tragically pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital, his wife survived the attack but remains hospitalized. Police have retrieved a firearm from Bilyon’s residence and are reviewing CCTV footage as they prepare to forward the full docket to the Attorney General’s office. The recent court appearance was marked by high tension as relatives of the deceased confronted the two brothers. In a separate ruling at Teshie, the court sentenced fisherman Godwin Tetteh to three months in prison after he pleaded guilty to causing harm. The incident, which occurred on June 12, 2026, involved Tetteh stabbing Christopher Tetteh multiple times with a pair of scissors. The violence was sparked by a dispute over traditional rites; the convict was reportedly incensed that the complainant had permitted his daughter to be initiated as a priestess without his consent. The court's decision was based on Tetteh’s own confession regarding the assault. These developments underscore the judiciary's role in addressing both premeditated violence and spontaneous conflicts arising from cultural tensions. As the Almeida trial moves toward the next stage of prosecution with the involvement of the Attorney General, the sentencing of Godwin Tetteh provides an immediate resolution to a case of community-level violence. Both cases serve as a significant indicator of the ongoing efforts to maintain public order and ensure that violent acts, regardless of their motivation, are met with legal consequences.

Former boxer Ayitey Powers arrested by police over death threats against Yaw Ampofo Ankrah
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GPCC Inducts Dr. Ebenezer Gyamera as General Secretary as Police Detain Ayitey Powers Over Alleged Threats

Ghana’s religious and sports sectors saw significant developments this week, marked by a high-level leadership transition within the clergy and a high-profile arrest involving a well-known athlete. On Saturday, August 22, the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) formally inducted Dr. Ebenezer Gyamera as its new General Secretary during a ceremony in Accra. This administrative milestone was followed shortly by a legal intervention on August 24, 2026, when the Accra Regional Police arrested former boxer Michael Ayitey Okai, popularly known as Ayitey Powers, for allegedly issuing death threats against a prominent sports official. Dr. Ebenezer Gyamera, a pastor of The Apostolic Church-Ghana, succeeds Apostle Immanuel N. O. Tettey, whose four-year tenure was celebrated for its contributions to the Council. During the induction, GPCC President Apostle Dr. Eric Nyamekye emphasized the Council's vital role in fostering Christian unity and providing moral leadership within the country. In his acceptance address, Dr. Gyamera pledged to work collaboratively with the council’s leadership to advance its mission and vision, receiving support from various religious organizations and leaders present at the event. In a separate and more volatile development, the arrest of Ayitey Powers has drawn public attention to issues of conduct and social media use. The Accra Regional Police moved to take the former boxer into custody after a video surfaced on social media in which he allegedly threatened Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, the Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA). The police have confirmed that investigations are currently underway to clarify the circumstances surrounding the video and the nature of the threats. These events underscore a period of institutional change and legal accountability in Ghana. While the GPCC enters a new chapter of administrative focus under Dr. Gyamera’s leadership, the sports community and the general public await the outcome of the police investigation into the threats against the NSA Director-General. Authorities have urged the public to remain calm and avoid the dissemination of unverified information while the legal process continues for the former boxer.

Global Humanitarian Crises: Guinea Landfill Collapse and Haiti Gang Attacks Leave Scores Dead as Typhoons Batter East Asia
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Global Humanitarian Crises: Guinea Landfill Collapse and Haiti Gang Attacks Leave Scores Dead as Typhoons Batter East Asia

The international community is grappling with a series of disparate but devastating humanitarian crises, ranging from infrastructure failures in West Africa to violent insecurity in the Caribbean and severe weather in East Asia. In Conakry, Guinea, a catastrophic landfill collapse triggered by torrential rains has claimed the lives of 31 people and left more than 20 injured. Rescuers have been forced to use heavy machinery to search for victims buried under debris, while local residents expressed deep-seated anger toward authorities, noting that they had previously issued several warnings about the hazardous site. The National Agency for Humanitarian Emergency and Disaster Management reports that approximately 358 people have been displaced and are now receiving emergency aid. Simultaneously, the Kenscoff community in Haiti is reeling from a brutal gang invasion that has left multiple residents dead and several homes destroyed. Armed men stormed the farming community late Sunday, causing widespread panic and significant communication disruptions that have hampered efforts to determine a final casualty count. Mayor Jean Massillon confirmed the gravity of the situation as families continue to search for missing loved ones amidst the wreckage of their community, highlighting the ongoing struggle with gang-led violence that has plagued the nation's security architecture. In East Asia, the focus is on a dual-front meteorological threat as Typhoons Narra and Saudel move through the region. Typhoon Narra has already struck Hainan, China, forcing mass evacuations and business closures, while Typhoon Saudel is projected to make landfall along the eastern seaboard after causing flight cancellations and power outages in Okinawa, Japan. The storms have already triggered severe flooding in China's Guangxi region, where rivers have breached their banks, and Taiwan is bracing for moderate rainfall as the Northwest Pacific and South China Sea remain volatile. These separate incidents underscore a global surge in humanitarian needs driven by environmental instability and civil unrest. While Guinean Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah has promised measures to assist the displaced and prevent future landfill tragedies, the sheer scale of displacement and loss across these regions highlights the urgent need for robust disaster management and security interventions. As rescue efforts continue in Conakry and Kenscoff, the priority remains the provision of immediate relief to survivors and the restoration of order in communities shattered by sudden disaster.

Linda Ampofo Welcomes Triplets at Age 55 Following 25-Year Wait
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Linda Ampofo Welcomes Triplets at Age 55 Following 25-Year Wait

In a remarkable turn of events that has captured the hearts of many in the Ashanti Region, 55-year-old Linda Ampofo has welcomed a set of triplets after waiting 25 years for a child. The birth, which occurred decades into her marriage, has been celebrated by family members and her local community as a testament to patience and faith. Ms. Ampofo, who had spent a quarter of a century searching for the joy of motherhood, now finds herself caring for three infants simultaneously after more than two decades of anticipation. Ms. Ampofo is a dedicated member of the Church of Pentecost within the Brofoyedru District of the Kwadaso Area. Throughout her twenty-five-year journey, she remained steadfast in her search for a child, a period marked by both personal struggle and communal support. The arrival of the triplets marks the end of a long period of waiting that spanned the majority of her married life. According to local reports, the emotional weight of the occasion has resonated deeply with those who have supported the couple throughout their long-standing challenge with fertility. The news has sparked significant emotional reactions within her church and the broader community, with church leaders and family members publicly describing the births as a miracle and a direct answer to years of fervent prayers. As the family begins this new chapter, the story serves as a profound moment of hope for many others in Ghana facing similar challenges. The health and well-being of both the mother and her three newborns remain the central focus of the joyous celebrations currently underway in the Kwadaso Area.

First lane Dodowa to Afienya road to open in December 2026 - Contractor assures
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Governs Kwame Agbodza Inspects Dodowa-Afienya Road; First Lane Set for December 2026 Completion

Roads and Highways Minister Governs Kwame Agbodza has confirmed that the first lane of the Dodowa-Afienya-Dawhenya road reconstruction project is on track for completion by December 2026. Following a recent inspection of the construction site, the Minister expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of work achieved by the contractor, Oswal Investment Limited. The project, which is currently 62 percent complete, is a critical infrastructure development aimed at alleviating the severe traffic congestion and dust-related health challenges that have long affected commuters and residents along this vital corridor. The scope of the reconstruction covers a 20.8-kilometer stretch and includes the installation of a significant bridge to improve regional connectivity. By opening the first lane from Dodowa Junction to Afienya Junction by the end of 2026, the contractor intends to divert traffic away from the existing, deteriorated road. This strategic move is expected to provide immediate relief to motorists while creating the necessary operational space for the construction of the second lane to proceed without further hindering local movement. President John Dramani Mahama is expected to commission the completed lane, reflecting the administration's commitment to modernizing Ghana's transport network. Minister Agbodza highlighted that the engineering standards maintained by Oswal Investment Limited ensure the road's durability and safety for long-term use. This executive oversight underscores the government's focus on ensuring that major infrastructure projects are delivered to specification and provide value for money to the Ghanaian public. While the opening of the first lane marks a major milestone, the entire Dodowa-Afienya-Dawhenya project is slated for full completion by December 2027. Once finished, the upgraded dual-carriageway will facilitate smoother trade and travel between the Greater Accra and Eastern Regions. The Ministry of Roads and Highways has urged the public to continue cooperating with traffic management measures as the project enters its final phases, promising that the completed road will significantly transform the local economy and transportation efficiency.

48 Engineer Regiment commences work to reclaim Lafa water retention basin at Mallam in Accra
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Accra Intensifies Flood Mitigation Works and Relief Distribution Following June 2026 Deluge

Following the devastating floods of June 2026, the Greater Accra Region has seen a surge in both humanitarian aid and critical infrastructure projects aimed at preventing future disasters. From the reclamation of vital water basins to the construction of massive underground drains, state agencies and international NGOs are working to address long-standing drainage failures that have plagued the capital for decades. These efforts coincide with large-scale relief distributions to thousands of displaced families, marking a coordinated push by the government and its partners to restore normalcy and build resilience in flood-prone communities. A major milestone in this infrastructure drive is the commencement of a 5.2-meter underground storm drain at the Hansonic Junction along the Dr. Busia Highway. The project, overseen by the Ablekuma North Municipal Assembly, aims to provide a permanent solution to a drainage problem that has persisted for 15 years. Municipal Chief Executive Adamu Musah Kalamu noted that the new system will connect to existing infrastructure near the Accra Academy School area. Maintenance Engineer Kwaku Tsegah highlighted that the previous system, dating back to 1985, had become obsolete due to heavy siltation and the illegal dumping of refuse, necessitating this modern intervention which is expected to be completed within four months. Simultaneously, the 48 Engineer Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces has been deployed to reclaim the Lafa water retention basin, a critical drainage point for Mallam, Weija, and Dansoman. The basin’s capacity had been severely compromised by illegal encroachments and years of compacted waste. Operating under the Post-Flood Mitigation Task Force, the military unit is utilizing heavy machinery for dredging and the demolition of illegal structures within the basin’s buffer zones. Officials emphasize that restoring the Lafa basin is essential for protecting surrounding residential areas from the torrential rains that frequently cause the Blue Lagoon and other neighborhoods to overflow. On the humanitarian front, the international NGO DirectAid has launched a GH"2 million relief program to support approximately 1,500 families affected by the mid-year floods. In Alajo, one of the hardest-hit areas, Country Director Sami Henedak Ahmed led the distribution of essential supplies including rice, cooking oil, mattresses, and towels. This intervention, funded by donations from Kuwait, specifically targets households whose livelihoods were disrupted by the June 2026 floods. Beneficiaries expressed profound relief as they continue the difficult process of recovery, with further distributions scheduled for surrounding communities in the coming weeks. While these projects represent significant progress, local authorities are urging residents to support the maintenance of new and reclaimed infrastructure. The persistent issue of refuse dumping in drains remains a primary cause of flooding, as seen in the failure of the older Hansonic system. As the government continues its national strategy to restore Accra’s waterways, officials stress that the success of these multi-million cedi investments depends on community cooperation and a collective shift toward better waste management practices to ensure the capital remains resilient against the changing climate.

The suspects
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Five Arrested in Murder of Gold Dealer Seth Kobina at Agona Nkwanta; Gang Leader Dies in Custody

The Western Regional Police Command has apprehended five suspects in connection with the brutal robbery and murder of a 40-year-old gold dealer in Agona Nkwanta. The victim, identified as Seth Kobina, was fatally shot during an attack on his business premises at Agona Fie on August 20, 2026. The swift police response led to the detention of the individuals allegedly responsible for the crime, which has sent shockwaves through the local business community in the Western Region. According to police reports and corroborating CCTV footage that has emerged since the incident, the assailants targeted Kobina at his shop, where he was shot in the chest during the heist. The arrested suspects have been identified as Christopher Seyiri, Bashiru Ibrahim, Thomas Odoom, and Isaac Quayeson. The alleged mastermind of the operation, Emmanuel Amponsah, was also taken into custody; however, authorities have confirmed that Amponsah subsequently died while in police detention. The police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the leader's death. The emergence of video evidence has played a critical role in the investigation, providing a clear account of how the robbers executed the attack and fled the scene. The Ghana Police Service indicated that the surviving suspects are currently cooperating with investigators to identify and locate additional accomplices who may be linked to the gang. This incident highlights ongoing security concerns for gold dealers in the Western Region, who are frequently targeted by armed criminal groups due to the high-value nature of their trade. The police have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring justice for Seth Kobina and his family, emphasizing that no effort will be spared in rounding up the rest of the criminal network. As the case moves toward prosecution, residents and business owners in Agona Nkwanta have called for increased patrols and enhanced security measures to protect the local economy. The Western Regional Command is expected to provide further updates as the remaining four suspects are processed through the judicial system.

some of the suspects
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Ashanti Regional Police Arrest Seven Suspects, Seize 860 Tramadol Tablets in Narcotics Crackdown

The Ghana Police Service has apprehended seven individuals during a series of intelligence-led operations targeting the distribution and sale of illegal narcotics across the Ashanti Region. The coordinated raids, which took place on August 20, 2026, were executed by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Special Operations Team (SOT) in response to growing concerns regarding drug-related activities in the area. The operations spanned three primary locations—Ejisu, Abrepo Junction, and Atimatim—resulting in the significant recovery of controlled substances and unregistered pharmaceuticals. Among the suspects taken into custody are 43-year-old Nana Kwadwo Adu and 48-year-old Nana Kwame Fella, both arrested in Ejisu. In a subsequent raid at Abrepo Junction, police detained four individuals: Stephanie Anokye, 23; Roland Anokye, 20; Gideon Owusu, 30; and Grace Fosua, 27. The final arrest occurred at Atimatim, where 27-year-old Kofi Opoku was apprehended. These arrests mark a concerted effort by the Ashanti Regional Police Command to dismantle local distribution networks that have been linked to various social challenges in the region. The operations yielded substantial evidence, most notably the seizure of 860 Tramadol tablets and capsules, a highly regulated painkiller frequently abused for its opioid-like effects. Beyond the Tramadol, officers recovered several pill pouches suspected to contain dried leaves believed to be narcotics, along with various other unregistered drugs. Law enforcement also confiscated an unspecified amount of currency suspected to be proceeds from illegal drug transactions. All seized materials have been processed as evidence as the police intensify their efforts to trace the supply chain behind these illicit substances. Currently, all seven suspects remain in police custody and are assisting with ongoing investigations aimed at identifying the primary sources of the narcotics and uncovering any wider criminal connections. The Ashanti Regional Police Command has emphasized that these operations are part of a broader strategy to ensure public safety and curb the drug menace. In a statement, authorities urged members of the community to remain vigilant and provide credible information that could lead to further arrests, reinforcing the importance of public-police cooperation in maintaining law and order.