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.

Man shot dead by a suspected poacher at the Kakum Forest Reserve in the Assin South District of the Central Region
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Wildlife Resource Guard Richard Otwey Fatally Shot by Suspected Poacher in Kakum Forest Reserve

In a tragic escalation of the conflict between law enforcement and illegal hunters, a 58-year-old Wildlife Resource Guard, Richard Otwey, was shot dead on August 22, 2026, during a routine patrol in the Kakum Forest Reserve. The incident occurred in the Assin South District as Otwey and two other guards were conducting an anti-poaching operation. The team encountered two men suspected of illegal hunting within the protected area, leading to a fatal confrontation that has once again highlighted the extreme risks faced by those protecting Ghana’s natural heritage. According to police reports and forestry officials, the guards confronted the two suspects, identified as Bukari Abudu and John Mensah, while they were hunting in the reserve. During the attempt to effect an arrest, Bukari Abudu allegedly fired a single-barrel gun at the patrol team. Richard Otwey was struck in the chest and died instantly at the scene under a wawa tree. While the patrol team managed to apprehend John Mensah following the shooting, Abudu succeeded in fleeing into the dense forest and remains at large. Chief Superintendent Edmund Agyemang Badu has confirmed the incident, stating that an investigation is actively underway. Police teams at the site recovered a single-barrel gun and a spent cartridge as evidence. Mr. Otwey’s body has since been transported to a morgue for a post-mortem examination. Authorities have launched an intensive manhunt for Bukari Abudu and are appealing to the general public to come forward with any information that could lead to his arrest. This fatal shooting underscores the growing dangers surrounding forest conservation in Ghana, where wildlife guards often face armed and desperate poachers. As illegal hunting activities persist, the incident serves as a grim reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers in the line of duty. The Forestry Commission and police officials are expected to review security protocols for patrols in the Kakum area to better protect guards during future operations.

Police arrest suspect in GH¢1.1million fake gold deal at Berekum
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Bono Regional Police Arrest Suspect in GH¢1.1 Million Fake Gold Syndicate in Berekum

The Bono Regional Police Command has apprehended 36-year-old Gyamfi Christian in connection with a sophisticated fake gold syndicate that defrauded a gold aggregator of GH¢1.1 million. The arrest, which occurred on August 17, 2026, followed a formal complaint by the victim, Christopher Awuni. Awuni reported that he had purchased 110 troy ounces of what he believed to be genuine gold from a group of four men in July 2026, only for subsequent laboratory tests to reveal that the material was entirely counterfeit. Following an intelligence-led investigation, police tracked Christian to a hideout in Wamfie, where he was taken into custody. During interrogation, the suspect reportedly admitted to his involvement in the fraudulent transaction and identified three accomplices who are currently at large. These individuals allegedly posed as legitimate gold sellers to lure the aggregator into the high-value deal. The police are now intensifying their efforts to locate these remaining suspects and dismantle the broader network behind the operation. Further investigations have linked the syndicate to a wider pattern of criminal activity in the region. Authorities revealed that the same group is believed to be responsible for another major fraud case earlier this year, which resulted in a loss of GH¢1.4 million for another victim. This discovery suggests a well-organized criminal enterprise targeting players within Ghana's lucrative gold industry, specifically exploiting those operating in the Bono Region and its environs. In light of these events, the Bono Regional Police Command has issued a stern warning to gold dealers and potential buyers to exercise extreme vigilance. Authorities emphasized the necessity of performing thorough due diligence and utilizing official channels for gold verification before committing to large transactions. Gyamfi Christian remains in police custody as investigations continue, while the public is urged to report any suspicious activities or individuals claiming to be gold traders without verifiable credentials.

Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Departs for United States as Absa Auto Fair and Elumelu Etiquette Debate Lead Headlines
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Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Departs for United States as Absa Auto Fair and Elumelu Etiquette Debate Lead Headlines

Ghana’s social and economic landscape is currently marked by a blend of traditional royalty, high-stakes commerce, and evolving corporate etiquette. Highlighting the day's activities on August 23, 2026, His Royal Majesty Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has officially departed the Manhyia Palace for a high-profile trip to the United States. Simultaneously, the Absa Auto Fair has launched at Ghud Park, providing a significant boost to the automotive sector despite early weather challenges. In the regional business sphere, a viral encounter between billionaire Tony Elumelu and a trainee has sparked a robust debate concerning professional hierarchy and respect in modern African workplaces. The Asantehene’s departure was characterized by the regal ceremony typical of the Golden Stool, with a substantial convoy and Ghana Police Service escorts moving from the palace toward the Prempeh I International Airport. This international journey underscores the Asantehene's ongoing role in global diplomacy and traditional leadership representation. Meanwhile, back in Accra, car enthusiasts and industry stakeholders gathered for the opening of the Absa Auto Fair. Although morning rains threatened to dampen the mood, the event at Ghud Park saw high attendance as visitors took advantage of test drives and promotional discounts offered by various dealers, creating a vibrant atmosphere for the automotive community. Beyond these physical events, a significant conversation has taken hold in the digital space following an interaction involving Tony Elumelu. During a professional engagement, the UBA Chairman corrected a trainee who addressed him by his first name, "Tony," rather than a formal title. This moment has triggered a wider debate on cultural etiquette and the degree of formality required when interacting with senior industry figures. While some view the correction as a necessary maintenance of professional standards, others argue for a more relaxed, modern approach to corporate communication. These diverse developments illustrate the multifaceted nature of current events in the country, bridging the gap between centuries-old traditions and the requirements of the modern economy. As the Asantehene represents Ghana abroad, the success of the Absa Auto Fair demonstrates local commercial resilience, while the discourse surrounding Elumelu highlights the ongoing negotiation of cultural values within professional spaces. Each event contributes to a broader understanding of Ghana's evolving social fabric.

Ashanti Region Shaken by Tragic Deaths in Obuasi and Manso Adubia as GNFS Clarifies Rent Allowance Payments
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Ashanti Region Shaken by Tragic Deaths in Obuasi and Manso Adubia as GNFS Clarifies Rent Allowance Payments

Tragic events in the Ashanti Region have left local residents in shock following a fatal daylight robbery and the distressing discovery of a deceased infant. Meanwhile, the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has moved to dispel widespread rumors regarding personnel welfare and unpaid benefits. These developments highlight a period of both administrative clarification and community mourning as authorities across the country address criminal activities and institutional misinformation. In the Ashanti Region, a gold buyer was shot dead during a brazen daylight robbery in Manso Adubia. Reports indicate that an armed assailant attacked the victim, firing at him and inflicting serious injuries that ultimately proved fatal. In a separate and equally distressing incident at Obuasi Old Estate, residents discovered the body of a seven-month-old baby in a drain. The discovery, made between midnight and 1:00 a.m. with news spreading by daybreak, has sparked significant concern. Kofi Mensah, the Assembly Member for the area, assisted in retrieving the body and has coordinated with authorities for burial arrangements while investigations into the cause of death and the circumstances leading to the abandonment remain ongoing. Shifting to administrative matters, the Ghana National Fire Service has officially dismissed social media claims regarding unpaid rent allowances for the year 2025. In a formal statement released on August 21, 2026, the GNFS management clarified that the final disbursement for the 2025 rent allowance was successfully completed in April 2026. The service described the circulating reports as "false and unfounded," urging personnel and the general public to disregard the misinformation and trust in the service's official communication channels. Looking forward, the GNFS has announced the formation of a dedicated committee to facilitate the payment process for the 2026 rent allowance, signaling a continued commitment to transparent communication and the welfare of its personnel. In the Ashanti Region, local authorities and community leaders are calling on members of the public to provide any information that could lead to the arrest of the Manso Adubia robber or shed light on the tragic death in Obuasi. These incidents underscore the ongoing need for vigilant community policing and proactive state communication to maintain public order and institutional trust.

National Road Safety Authority and Experts Push for Comprehensive Driver Reform Under New Traffic Regulations
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National Road Safety Authority and Experts Push for Comprehensive Driver Reform Under New Traffic Regulations

The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has launched an extensive sensitization campaign to educate commercial motorbike and tricycle operators on the newly enacted Ghana Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (Legislative Instrument 2519). Following the passage of the legislation by Parliament in December 2025, the NRSA is currently focusing on the Upper East Region to ensure operators understand the legal requirements designed to reduce road accidents. This initiative coincides with a broader national discourse on moving beyond simple licensing toward a comprehensive, technology-driven driver management system that monitors behavior throughout a motorist’s career. Under the new LI 2519, commercial riders must meet several strict criteria to continue operations legally. Key provisions include a mandatory minimum age of 21 for all commercial riders and the requirement that every operator belongs to a recognized union for better oversight and supervision. In the Upper East Region, NRSA officials are emphasizing the compulsory use of crash helmets and the importance of unionization, with support from the National Union of Tricycle Operators Ghana. This six-month educational transition period is intended to foster compliance before full enforcement begins, aiming to professionalize the sector and curb the high rate of crashes involving two- and three-wheeled vehicles. Complementing these legislative changes, road safety experts, including DCOP David Senanu Eklu (Rtd.), are calling for a fundamental shift in how Ghana manages driver records. A proposed National Driver Safety Profile would integrate traffic history into a single database, moving away from the current system where the DVLA lacks a comprehensive record of a driver’s traffic infractions. Central to this vision is a penalty-points system similar to that used in the UK, where drivers start with a set number of points that are deducted for infractions. Such a system would enable authorities to identify high-risk drivers early and mandate retraining or license suspension, effectively treating driving as a lifelong responsibility. The integration of modern technology is seen as the vital link between these new regulations and long-term behavioral change. By utilizing digital systems to maintain data integrity and track driver infractions across various agencies, Ghana can establish a framework that encourages more responsible road use. As the NRSA continues its regional outreach, the success of these reforms will depend on the effective coordination between the DVLA, the police, and transport unions to ensure that the road safety framework is both comprehensive and consistently enforced across the country.

Madina Residents Demand Urgent Intervention Over High-Voltage Power Lines and Unsafe Building Proximity
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Madina Residents Demand Urgent Intervention Over High-Voltage Power Lines and Unsafe Building Proximity

Residents and traders at Rawlings Circle in Madina are sounding the alarm over what they describe as a "ticking time bomb" involving electrical infrastructure. High-voltage power lines and electricity poles are situated perilously close to homes and shops, with some structures reportedly built directly around or through existing utility poles. The situation has sparked widespread fear of imminent electrocution and catastrophic electrical fires, as local inhabitants call for immediate government intervention to prevent a potential disaster in the densely populated area. Recent investigations at the site reveal a disturbing pattern of encroachment on utility easements. Local traders have highlighted the frequent occurrence of minor fire outbreaks linked to poor electrical installations and the dangerous proximity of metal containers to live wires. Samuel, a fibre-optic engineer operating in the vicinity, emphasized that safety protocols typically require at least a 50-meter clearance for high-tension lines to protect human life. While some residents are vocal about their fears, others remain hesitant to speak out publicly, wary that the questionable legality of their structures might lead to immediate demolition and loss of livelihood. The safety crisis is not isolated to Madina, as similar hazards have been identified at Pokuase ACP, prompting broader concerns about urban planning in the region. In response, the Ga North Municipal Assembly has announced plans to crack down on unsafe constructions. Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) Akwetey Agbo stated that the Assembly is coordinating with relevant state agencies to dismantle high-risk structures while simultaneously educating the public on the dangers of building within utility corridors. However, despite the gravity of the situation, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has yet to provide a formal response regarding their role in maintaining these corridors or managing the risks associated with existing poles. This ongoing tension between rapid urban expansion and utility safety underscores a critical need for stricter enforcement of building regulations across the Greater Accra Region. As municipal authorities move toward enforcement and potential demolitions, the focus remains on whether these actions will be accompanied by long-term structural solutions to prevent future encroachments. For the residents of Rawlings Circle, the relocation of hazardous infrastructure and regular safety inspections are seen as essential steps to ensuring their survival in an increasingly crowded urban landscape.

Conakry Landfill Collapse: At Least 30 Dead as Heavy Rains Bury Homes in Guinea
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Conakry Landfill Collapse: At Least 30 Dead as Heavy Rains Bury Homes in Guinea

A catastrophic landfill collapse in Guinea’s capital, Conakry, has claimed the lives of at least 30 people and left several others injured following a period of intense rainfall. The disaster occurred early Sunday morning when a massive mound of refuse gave way, sliding onto residential homes in the Dar-es-salam neighborhood of the Bbessia district. While initial reports from witnesses and officials indicated a recovery of 18 bodies, the confirmed death toll has since risen to 30 as search and rescue teams continue to navigate the debris. Witnesses described a scene of devastation as the saturated waste material overwhelmed the community under the cover of darkness. Emergency responders and local residents have been working tirelessly to recover bodies from the site, with at least six individuals reported injured and receiving medical attention. The recovered remains are being transported to a local morgue as the scale of the tragedy becomes clearer. The collapse highlights the extreme vulnerability of informal settlements located near waste management sites, particularly during the region's peak rainy season. Prior to this tragedy, the Guinean government and local officials had identified the Dar-es-salam landfill as a high-risk zone. Concerns regarding the stability of the refuse mounds had prompted official warnings and recent safety measures intended to mitigate the danger to the public. Reports indicate that the government had previously attempted to expel residents from the immediate vicinity and enforce safety zones to prevent such a catastrophe; however, the continued presence of homes in the danger zone suggests significant challenges in enforcing relocation orders. As recovery operations continue, the incident has sparked renewed scrutiny of urban planning and waste management infrastructure in West African metropolitan areas. The Dar-es-salam neighborhood remains on high alert, as saturated ground and further rainfall could potentially trigger additional slides. Moving forward, Guinean authorities face the immediate task of managing the humanitarian crisis while seeking long-term solutions to ensure that such a preventable disaster does not recur in Conakry’s at-risk districts.

VIDEO from Ejisu: How a suspected car thief tried to run away and ended up running over a crowd
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Police Apprehend Suspected Car Snatcher Following Violent Crash at Ejisu Junction

A suspected robber was arrested in Ejisu, Ashanti Region, on Saturday following a violent series of events that began with a failed taxi snatching and ended with a car crash into a crowd of pedestrians. The suspect allegedly attacked a taxi driver at the busy Ejisu traffic junction, forcibly demanding and eventually seizing the vehicle. In a desperate attempt to evade capture, the suspect sped away from the scene, losing control of the stolen taxi almost immediately. The vehicle veered off the road and plowed into a crowd of bystanders, resulting in several injuries as the suspect ran over individuals in his path. The crash brought the vehicle to a halt, allowing a mob of residents to quickly surround and apprehend the suspect before he could flee on foot. Officers from the nearby Ejisu Police Station arrived shortly after the accident to take the suspect into custody and restore order to the area. Witnesses at the scene captured the dramatic incident on video, and footage of the suspect's arrest has since circulated widely on social media platforms. The Ghana Police Service has launched an investigation into the robbery and the subsequent accident. Authorities are also monitoring the condition of those injured in the crowd to determine the full extent of the harm caused during the suspect's escape attempt.

GRIDCo and ECG Announce Planned Power Outages in Greater Accra and Ashanti Regions
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GRIDCo and ECG Announce Planned Power Outages in Greater Accra and Ashanti Regions

The Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) and the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) have announced a series of scheduled power interruptions across the Greater Accra and Ashanti Regions, set to take place on Sunday, August 23, and Tuesday, August 25, 2026. These outages are necessary to facilitate critical emergency repairs and routine maintenance aimed at improving the stability and reliability of the national power grid. Residents and businesses in the affected enclaves are advised to prepare for significant disruptions during these periods. In Greater Accra, a 15-hour outage is scheduled for Sunday, August 23, starting at 3:00 a.m. and ending at 6:00 p.m. This interruption is primarily due to GRIDCo's ongoing emergency replacement of a transmission tower on the Volta–Achimota 161kV line, which was severely damaged by a tanker explosion. While work was originally slated for completion by August 16, additional time is required to finalize the repairs. Affected areas in the Accra West and Accra East zones include major hubs such as James Town, Mamprobi, Nima, and Madina Township. Specifically, in the Ashaiman area, outages on the V19H and V24H lines are expected between 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. as part of this broader recovery effort. Following the work in the capital, the Electricity Company of Ghana will shift focus to the Ashanti Region on Tuesday, August 25. A six-hour maintenance window has been established from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to enhance service delivery. The planned works will affect a wide range of communities, including Effiduase, Apemso, Asekyerewa, and the Senkyi enclaves. Other impacted locations include Asenua, parts of Ahwiaa, Overseas, Maase, Simms SHS, Fawoade, Adumakase Kese, Wawase, and Meduma. Both utility providers have emphasized that these interruptions are essential for ensuring the safety and long-term reliability of the power system. GRIDCo has formally requested the ECG to implement load management strategies to minimize the impact on consumers while work is underway. The companies have apologized for the inconvenience caused to the public and have requested patience as technical teams work to restore full capacity to the affected regions.

Rev. Wengam re-elected General Superintendent of Assemblies of God, Ghana
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Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam Secures Decisive Re-election as General Superintendent of Assemblies of God, Ghana

Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam has been overwhelmingly re-elected as the General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God, Ghana, securing a near 90% mandate during the church's 32nd Biennial General Council Meeting. On August 21, 2026, delegates reaffirmed their confidence in Wengam’s leadership with 3,727 votes, representing 89.61% of the total cast. His opponent, Rev. Dr. Kwame B. Bansah, received 432 votes, or 10.39%. This decisive victory marks the beginning of a second four-year term for Wengam, who has focused his tenure on modernizing church infrastructure and expanding the denomination's spiritual reach. The electoral process also saw the appointment of a new executive leadership team to support the General Superintendent’s vision for the next quadrennium. Rev. Dr. Kwadwo Bempah was elected as the Assistant General Superintendent, while Rev. Dr. Albert Anane assumed the role of General Secretary. Following the declaration of the results, Wengam expressed gratitude to the General Council for the "massive endorsement," emphasizing that the victory was a testament to the church's collective desire for continuity and progress. He called for unity among all members, urging the congregation to move past the electoral phase and focus on the church’s mission. Looking ahead, Wengam outlined several ambitious initiatives central to his second term, including the "Centenary City Project," a flagship infrastructure development designed to commemorate the Assemblies of God’s 100th anniversary in Ghana. Additionally, the leadership reaffirmed its commitment to the "MM33 agenda," a global evangelism strategy aimed at doubling the church's footprint. Wengam stressed that the coming years would be defined by aggressive church planting and spiritual revitalization as the denomination prepares for its centennial milestone. The Biennial General Council Meeting concluded with intensive prayer sessions for the church's future growth and national stability. The re-election of the leadership team comes at a pivotal time as the Ghana branch prepares to participate in the World Assemblies of God Congress scheduled for October 2026. This international gathering is expected to provide a platform for the Ghanaian leadership to showcase its local successes and collaborate on global missionary efforts, further solidifying the church's influence both within West Africa and on the global stage.

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Kenyan Helicopter Crash Near Mount Ololokwe Claims Seven Lives, Including Five Americans

A tragic helicopter accident in northern Kenya has resulted in the deaths of seven individuals, including six tourists and a pilot. The crash occurred on Wednesday shortly after the aircraft departed from the Loisaba nature reserve, a popular destination for high-end wildlife tourism. The aircraft went down near the prominent landmark of Mount Ololokwe in Samburu County, sparking immediate search and recovery efforts in the rugged terrain of the region. Among those confirmed dead are five citizens of the United States and one national from Ecuador. The U.S. State Department has officially confirmed the deaths of the American citizens, while the identity and nationality of the seventh victim—the pilot—have not been formally released by authorities at this stage. The aircraft involved has been identified as a Eurocopter EC130 B4, a model frequently utilized for scenic flights and tourism charters due to its wide visibility and general reliability. Both the helicopter operator and the associated tour company have confirmed the incident, expressing deep condolences to the families of the victims. The Loisaba area is widely recognized for its significant conservation efforts and luxury eco-tourism, serving as a key hub for international visitors exploring Kenya’s diverse landscapes. This incident represents a significant tragedy for the local tourism sector, which is a vital component of the Kenyan national economy. Investigations into the cause of the crash are currently underway, led by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) and the Ministry of Transport. A formal inquiry has been launched to determine the specific circumstances that led to the fatal descent, with investigators expected to examine weather conditions, mechanical performance, and pilot communications. The results of this investigation will be critical in providing answers for the grieving families and the international diplomatic community as they process this loss.

17-Year-Old Girl Killed and Three Injured in Sword Attack at Brinell School in Fagersta, Sweden
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17-Year-Old Girl Killed and Three Injured in Sword Attack at Brinell School in Fagersta, Sweden

A 17-year-old girl has been killed and three others injured following a violent sword attack at Brinell School (Brinellskolan) in Fagersta, Sweden. The tragic incident occurred as students were returning from their summer break, sending shockwaves through the community located approximately 170 kilometers northwest of Stockholm. Police have taken an 18-year-old former student into custody in connection with the attack, and the case is currently being investigated as murder and multiple counts of attempted murder. Among those wounded are two boys, aged 12 and 17, who sustained serious injuries during the assault, while a third individual suffered minor injuries. Authorities confirmed that law enforcement officers fired their weapons during the apprehension of the suspect, although it remains unclear if the 18-year-old was hit. Since the arrest, investigators have conducted house searches related to the suspect and are working to determine a motive for the violence. Local officials have indicated that the suspect appears to have acted alone. The attack prompted a high-level national response, with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and opposition leader Magdalena Andersson visiting the school to pay their respects and lay tributes for the victims. King Carl XVI Gustaf also expressed his deep sorrow over the tragedy. In the immediate aftermath, a regional state of emergency was briefly declared, and nearby schools were placed under a precautionary lockdown to ensure the safety of students and staff. While the state of emergency and lockdowns have since been lifted, a heightened security presence remains in the area. As the investigation continues, the Swedish government is closely monitoring the situation and liaising with law enforcement to manage the aftermath. The event has raised significant concerns regarding school safety and public violence as the town of Fagersta begins a period of mourning. Local authorities and psychological support teams are working with the school community to assist students and families affected by the trauma as the legal process against the suspect moves forward.