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.

Getty A cat with a plastic collar rests on a wooden floor. The cat has chocolate fur and big blue eyes.
news|

Ghana News Digest: Reformation in Ajumako and Global Breakthroughs in Feline Cancer Research

Maxwell Oppong, a 29-year-old farmer from Ajumako, has shared a remarkable story of personal growth during his incarceration, while simultaneously, the scientific community is celebrating a breakthrough in feline genetics that could revolutionize human cancer treatment. These two distinct developments—one focusing on the reformation of an individual and the other on a global health milestone—highlight the diverse nature of progress in both social and scientific spheres. Currently serving a two-year, six-month sentence for stealing a mobile phone, Oppong views his time behind bars as a transformative experience. He admits that the structure and discipline of prison life provided a necessary intervention, allowing him to quit smoking and reflect on his past behavior. Oppong describes his incarceration not as a setback, but as a blessing that has instilled in him a new outlook on life and a commitment to bettering himself. He expresses gratitude for the lessons learned, which he believes will be instrumental in maintaining a disciplined lifestyle upon his release. On the scientific front, researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute have achieved a world-first by creating a detailed genetic map of cancer in domestic cats. Led by Dr. Louise Van der Wayden, the team analyzed tumor DNA from nearly 500 cats, uncovering genetic mutations across 13 different types of feline cancer. The study reveals striking similarities between feline and human cancers, particularly regarding breast cancer. This suggests that domestic cats could provide vital clues for understanding human cancer development and the environmental factors that contribute to the disease. These narratives, while vastly different in scope, both point toward a future of improvement and deeper understanding. As Maxwell Oppong prepares to transition back into his community with a reformed character, medical researchers are utilizing the genetic secrets of pet cats to pave the way for more effective human cancer treatments. Both instances serve as a reminder that valuable lessons and breakthroughs can often emerge from the most unexpected circumstances.

Ghana Road Safety: Ga Mantse Survives Crash as Fatal Tanker Accident and Reckless Driving Penalties Highlight Risks
news|

Ghana Road Safety: Ga Mantse Survives Crash as Fatal Tanker Accident and Reckless Driving Penalties Highlight Risks

Ghana has seen a series of significant road traffic incidents in February 2026, ranging from high-profile escapes to tragic fatalities and judicial interventions. The Office of the Ga Mantse has confirmed that King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II survived a vehicle accident in the Oti Region, while a separate mechanical failure in the Ashanti Region claimed the life of a 55-year-old trader. These incidents, alongside recent court rulings against careless driving, underscore the persistent challenges of road safety and the critical importance of emergency response and legal accountability. Regarding the high-profile incident in the Oti Region, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II was returning to Accra on February 17, 2026, from an urgent mission when his vehicle was involved in a crash. According to a statement from the Palace, there were no casualties, and all individuals involved were successfully evacuated with the assistance of security personnel and aides. The King and his team underwent medical examinations and have since been discharged in stable condition. The Ga Mantse expressed his gratitude to the evacuation team and well-wishers, noting that he is making steady progress under continuous medical monitoring. In a more somber development, a fatal accident at Kaase in the Asokwa Municipality of the Ashanti Region resulted in the death of a 55-year-old trader identified as Owusu, popularly known as 'Wayomi.' The tragedy occurred when a gas tanker, registered GT 5560-16, suffered a brake failure while descending a hill. The heavy vehicle rolled back, crushing two trotros and a Toyota Vitz. While a nurse and her mother in the Vitz survived the five-vehicle collision, Owusu was trapped under the tanker while attempting to escape his vehicle. The Ghana National Fire Service and Police responded to the scene, though the incident caused significant traffic disruption and the loss of life. Meanwhile, the judicial system is taking steps to address human error on the roads. The Adabraka District Court recently fined driver Evans Amankwa 50 penalty units (GH¢600) following a careless driving incident on February 2, 2026. Amankwa, operating a Daewoo Matiz, collided with an articulated truck, injuring his passenger, Edmund Wisdom Azumah Kwaku. The court noted that the driver failed to exercise due care, leading to the injuries and subsequent medical expenses. These diverse incidents highlight the varying causes of road trauma—ranging from mechanical failure to negligence—and emphasize the ongoing need for vigilance by all road users in Ghana.

Ghana Police Intensify Crackdown on Crime: Fatalities, Arrests, and Investigations Across Three Regions
news|

Ghana Police Intensify Crackdown on Crime: Fatalities, Arrests, and Investigations Across Three Regions

The Ghana Police Service has intensified its operations across multiple regions, leading to significant arrests, the recovery of illegal firearms, and the launch of high-profile investigations. In the Bono Region, an intelligence-led operation by the Regional Police Command resulted in a fatal shootout with a suspected robbery gang on the Dormaa-Gonokrom highway. Acting on a tip-off about a planned robbery, officers conducted surveillance and were fired upon by suspects. In the ensuing exchange, one male suspect was killed, and police successfully retrieved five firearms, including an AK-47 rifle and ammunition, while launching a manhunt for the remaining gang members. Simultaneously, in the Central Region, the Gomoa Ojobi District Police Command has apprehended 14 suspects involved in a violent land-related operation at Gomoa Akotsi. The group, led by Ekow Egyir, included two notorious land guards and 12 individuals who were allegedly posing as National Security officers. Armed with guns and handcuffs, the suspects reportedly targeted over 60 houses during nighttime raids, successfully demolishing more than 20 structures before their arrest. Local leaders and affected residents have called upon the Inspector-General of Police to ensure the suspects face the full rigors of the law to deter future land-guard activities in the area. Amidst these enforcement actions, a tragic investigation is underway in the Eastern Region following the discovery of 16-year-old Deborah Dede Ama’s body in a stream in Tinkong Township. The teenager went missing after attending a Valentine’s Day party on February 14. When she failed to return home, her family filed a report, leading to the eventual discovery of her remains, which showed signs of decomposition and suggested a potential assault. The Adawso Police Department has sent the body for an autopsy and is currently interviewing friends who attended the party to establish a timeline and identify potential suspects. These diverse incidents highlight the complex security challenges currently facing law enforcement, ranging from organized highway robbery to land-related intimidation and individual violent crimes. Authorities across all three regions have reiterated their commitment to public safety, urging citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with investigators. As the police continue to track down remaining suspects in the Bono robbery and finalize the autopsy results in the Eastern Region, the public is encouraged to provide any information that could lead to the successful prosecution of those threatening the peace and security of their communities.

Ghana Health Service Tightens Hospital Security and Professional Standards Following Recent Security Breaches
news|

Ghana Health Service Tightens Hospital Security and Professional Standards Following Recent Security Breaches

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) and national security agencies have moved to overhaul safety protocols across the country’s medical facilities following a series of alarming security breaches and professional misconduct incidents. The catalyst for these changes was a high-profile baby theft at the Mamprobi Polyclinic in Accra, which sparked a rare moment of unity between the Majority and Minority in Parliament. Both political factions are demanding immediate improvements to maternity ward security and stricter access controls to protect vulnerable patients. In the wake of the Mamprobi incident, the Ghana Police Service successfully arrested a suspect, Latifa Salifu, who is now facing legal proceedings. To prevent further occurrences, the police have deployed 24/7 surveillance at the facility. First Deputy Majority Whip Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe and Deputy Minority Leader Patricia Appiagyei have both urged public and private hospitals to enhance safety protocols, emphasizing that the protection of infants must be a top priority for health administrators nationwide. Responding to the threat of impersonation highlighted by the theft, the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, has issued a strict mandate for all health workers to wear approved uniforms and visible name tags. This directive is designed to improve service delivery and ensure easy identification of legitimate staff. Dr. Kaba noted that the policy aligns with international standards and is essential for preventing unauthorized persons from gaining access to clinical areas. Regional health directorates, including the Volta Region led by Dr. Atsu Dodor, have pledged full compliance with these new identification standards to rebuild public trust. Beyond external threats, internal security and professional conduct have also come under scrutiny following a violent confrontation at the Kumawu Government Hospital. A pharmacist, Kofi Dougan, was recently arrested for allegedly assaulting a medical officer, Dr. Fred Twene Amankwaa, during a dispute over a prescription. The incident, which left the physician with physical injuries and a torn uniform, underscores the urgent need for a more secure and professional environment within hospital walls. These collective measures—ranging from police surveillance and legislative advocacy to strict identification policies—represent a significant push to safeguard the integrity of Ghana’s healthcare system. As legal proceedings continue for both the Mamprobi theft and the Kumawu assault case, the GHS remains focused on ensuring that hospitals remain safe havens for both the medical professionals providing care and the patients they serve.

FDA Clarifies Viral Video: Cement-Preserved Beans Not Linked to Ghana
news|

FDA Clarifies Viral Video: Cement-Preserved Beans Not Linked to Ghana

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) of Ghana has officially clarified that a disturbing viral video circulating on social media, which shows beans being preserved with a white powder resembling cement, did not originate within the country. Following an investigative review of the footage, the Authority confirmed that the practices and language depicted are foreign to Ghanaian food standards and do not reflect local agricultural or preservation methods. This statement aims to quell public anxiety regarding the safety of bean supplies in the Ghanaian market and reassure consumers that local standards remain intact. In its assessment, the FDA highlighted several alarming hygiene and safety violations showcased in the video. The footage depicts individuals handling food products with bare hands while using unidentified chemicals without any protective gear. The FDA emphasized that such unhygienic methods are strictly prohibited and do not align with the approved food safety protocols mandated for retailers and producers in Ghana. The Authority noted that the use of cement or any industrial powder for food preservation is not only unapproved but also poses significant health risks to consumers. Reassuring the public of its commitment to food safety, the FDA reaffirmed that it maintains rigorous oversight of food products on the market. The Authority urged consumers to remain vigilant and avoid panic, noting that the unsafe methods seen in the video are not part of any recognized agricultural practices in the country. To ensure continued safety, the FDA has called on the public to report any suspicious food handling or preservation activities to their offices. They reiterated their dedication to protecting public health and ensuring that all food products sold in Ghana meet the required quality and safety standards.

Morning Glory MCDC Bolsters Krowor Schools with 300-Item Furniture Donation for 30th Anniversary
news|

Morning Glory MCDC Bolsters Krowor Schools with 300-Item Furniture Donation for 30th Anniversary

In a significant move to bolster educational infrastructure within the Krowor Municipality, Morning Glory MCDC has donated over 300 pieces of furniture to several local schools. The two-day outreach, which took place from February 13 to 14, 2026, serves as a cornerstone of the institution's activities leading up to its landmark 30th anniversary. This charitable initiative was specifically designed to address pressing classroom needs and foster a more conducive learning atmosphere for students throughout the municipality. By providing these essential resources, the school aims to support efforts in improving the quality of basic education and ensuring students have the necessary facilities to excel. The donation, consisting of a substantial collection of tables and chairs, was distributed across several key educational institutions, including SPMagna, Vivibon, Heritage, Fransland, and DRIS. These items are expected to directly tackle the persistent challenge of overcrowding in classrooms, a common hurdle that often hampers student concentration and diminishes teacher effectiveness. The provision of adequate seating is seen as a fundamental step toward enhancing the physical environment where the next generation of Ghanaian leaders is being nurtured and trained. Highlighting the motivation behind the outreach, Campus Head Reginald Isaac Appertey emphasized Morning Glory MCDC's deep-seated commitment to community development. He noted that the upcoming 30th-anniversary celebrations provided a perfect opportunity to give back to the community that has supported the institution for three decades. According to Mr. Appertey, such initiatives are vital for shaping the future of the youth and ensuring that every child has access to the basic tools necessary for academic success. He reaffirmed the school's dedication to continuing such outreach programs as part of its core mission. This philanthropic effort by Morning Glory MCDC sets a commendable precedent for corporate and institutional social responsibility within the Krowor area. As the school prepares for the culmination of its anniversary celebrations, the impact of this donation is expected to be felt immediately by the beneficiary schools, creating a more organized and comfortable setting for both students and staff. Ultimately, the outreach underscores the critical role that educational institutions play not just in academic instruction, but in actively participating in the broader development and well-being of their host communities.

54-Year-Old Woman Breaks 50-Year Silence to Reveal Decades of Brutal Abuse by Pastor Father
news|

54-Year-Old Woman Breaks 50-Year Silence to Reveal Decades of Brutal Abuse by Pastor Father

Afua Kesse-Amponsah, a 54-year-old Ghanaian woman, has courageously broken a half-century of silence to recount the harrowing details of physical and emotional abuse she endured at the hands of her father, a pastor. The abuse, which reportedly began when she was only two years old, underscores the hidden plight of many domestic violence victims in Ghana who suffer in silence for decades. By sharing her story now, Kesse-Amponsah aims to shed light on the long-term psychological scars left by extreme corporal punishment and the institutional failures that allowed the abuse to persist unchecked throughout her childhood. The details of the abuse are particularly distressing, involving severe physical beatings that Kesse-Amponsah claims were often motivated by her father’s attempt to forcibly change her from being left-handed to right-handed. These sessions frequently left her with significant physical injuries, which her father allegedly masked by administering powdered aspirin to reduce swelling and pain, effectively hiding the physical evidence of his violence from the community and authorities. This systematic concealment allowed the cycle of abuse to continue for years, resulting in what Kesse-Amponsah describes as numerous health complications and a lifelong struggle with Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD). Despite the severity of her claims, the path to legal justice is complicated by the fact that her father is now deceased. This reality has left Kesse-Amponsah in a difficult position regarding criminal prosecution, fueling her frustration with a law enforcement and social welfare system that she believes failed to protect her when it mattered most. Her testimony highlights a critical gap in the protection of minors, where cultural norms regarding parenting and discipline often shield abusers from scrutiny, especially when they hold positions of authority or religious leadership within their communities. Now an advocate for change, Kesse-Amponsah is calling for a national conversation on the dangers of corporal punishment and the need for greater institutional accountability. She urges parents to find more constructive ways of disciplining children and calls on social institutions to be more proactive in identifying and intervening in cases of domestic abuse. By coming forward, she hopes to empower other survivors to speak out and to ensure that the systems designed to safeguard children are strengthened to prevent future generations from enduring similar trauma.

Ghana Crime and Safety Update: NACOC Intensifies Kasoa Drug Operations as Adeiso Rape Case Proceeds
news|

Ghana Crime and Safety Update: NACOC Intensifies Kasoa Drug Operations as Adeiso Rape Case Proceeds

Recent developments in Ghana's law enforcement and social justice sectors have brought Kasoa and Adeiso into the spotlight. In Kasoa, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has launched an intensified crackdown on illegal drug peddling, bolstered by new logistical support. Meanwhile, in the Eastern Region, the police have arrested a male student at Adeiso Presbyterian Secondary School following an alleged sexual assault on a female classmate, sparking a firm demand for justice from the victim's family. The operations in Kasoa target the dismantling of established drug networks within the Awutu Senya East Municipality. Assistant Narcotics Control Officer Mavis Edna Dotse highlighted that these intelligence-led efforts are now more mobile thanks to a motorbike donation from the local Member of Parliament, Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor. This collaboration between law enforcement and political leadership underscores a commitment to safeguarding the youth from the perils of substance abuse. The MP emphasized that community security remains a top priority, pledging continued support for security agencies to ensure a safer environment for residents. Contrastingly, a distressing incident has unfolded at Adeiso Presbyterian Secondary School, where a Form 2 student is currently in police custody for the alleged rape of a female student. The assault reportedly occurred during evening study sessions on the school premises. Despite the victim's pleas for the suspect to stop, the attack proceeded, leading to an immediate police intervention. The case has drawn significant attention not only for the gravity of the crime but also for the subsequent attempts by school authorities and the suspect's family to settle the matter privately. The victim's family has firmly rejected appeals to drop the case, insisting that the matter be resolved through the formal legal system to ensure accountability. This stance highlights a growing trend of resisting out-of-court settlements in cases of sexual violence. Together, these events in Kasoa and Adeiso reflect broader national concerns regarding public safety and the protection of vulnerable populations. As investigations continue in Adeiso and NACOC scales up its presence in Kasoa, the outcomes of these actions will likely influence regional security strategies and the enforcement of justice in educational institutions.

Mobile Money Vendor in Court for Alleged GH₵112,660 Theft from Employer
news|

Mobile Money Vendor in Court for Alleged GH₵112,660 Theft from Employer

A 29-year-old mobile money vendor, Juliana Addy, has appeared before the Dansoman Circuit Court facing charges for allegedly stealing GH₵112,660 from her employer, Esther Fosuah Cobbinah. Despite pleading not guilty to the charges, Addy was granted bail in the sum of GH₵20,000. As part of her bail conditions, the court ordered her to deposit copies of her Ghana Card with the Court Registry and mandated that she report to the local police station on a bi-weekly basis to ensure her appearance for future proceedings. The alleged financial discrepancies came to light following a routine audit conducted after the complainant, Madam Cobbinah, returned to Ghana from a trip abroad. During her employer's absence, Addy was entrusted with the full management of the mobile money shop. However, the audit revealed a significant shortfall in the accounts, prompting a formal complaint to the authorities on January 6, 2026. Prosecution records indicate that the accused mishandled the shop's funds throughout her tenure as manager, leading to the substantial loss identified during the review. During police interrogations, Addy reportedly admitted to the offense, explaining that she had redirected the business's capital to cover pressing personal and family expenses. Specifically, she noted that a portion of the funds was used to settle medical bills for her father. Further investigations by the police also uncovered that Addy had secured various online loans without her employer's authorization, utilizing the company’s business information and credentials to facilitate these unauthorized transactions. This case highlights the ongoing challenges of financial security and employee trust within Ghana's rapidly growing mobile money sector. As the legal proceedings continue, the court has adjourned the matter until March 25, 2026, for further hearing. The outcome of this case is expected to serve as a cautionary tale regarding the legal consequences of financial mismanagement and the importance of robust auditing systems for small business owners in the digital finance space.

Ga Mantse Escapes Unhurt in Oti Region Crash as Fatal Accident Claims Two Lives on Ho-Aflao Highway
news|

Ga Mantse Escapes Unhurt in Oti Region Crash as Fatal Accident Claims Two Lives on Ho-Aflao Highway

The Ga State and the traditional leadership of Ghana have expressed profound relief following news that the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, survived a road accident unharmed in the early hours of Wednesday. The incident occurred around 2:00 am at Pai-Katanga in the Oti Region while the King and his entourage were returning to Accra from a private visit to the Northern Region. The King had been in Tamale at the invitation of the Yaa Naa, a visit intended to strengthen the historical and traditional ties between the Ga and Dagbon kingdoms. Reports from the palace and witnesses indicate that although the vehicle was involved in a crash, the Ga Mantse remains in stable condition and in high spirits. The Ghana Police Service responded promptly to the scene to provide security and assist the royal delegation. While the specific cause of the dawn accident has not been fully detailed, the quick response of emergency services ensured that the King and his party were secured. The news has been met with thanksgiving at the palace, as the traditional leader escaped without injury despite the potential severity of the dawn collision. In a separate and more tragic development, a road accident on the Ho–Aflao Highway in the Volta Region has resulted in two fatalities and 14 injuries. This crash involved a Ford Transit vehicle and a Honda Civic, which collided head-on when the driver of the Ford Transit attempted a dangerous overtaking maneuver. The impact of the collision left several passengers trapped within the wreckage, necessitating a swift rescue operation by the Ghana National Fire Service. Responders worked to extricate the victims and manage the scene, which saw temporary traffic disruptions as authorities worked to clear the highway. Emergency medical teams transported the 14 injured individuals to nearby hospitals for urgent treatment, while the bodies of the two deceased individuals were taken to the morgue. As of the latest reports, the identities of the deceased have not yet been released to the public as authorities seek to notify their next of kin. These two incidents, occurring in the Oti and Volta regions, underscore the persistent challenges of road safety on Ghana's highways, particularly during night travel and high-speed maneuvers like overtaking. Investigations into the exact causes of both accidents are currently being conducted by the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service.

Ashanti South Police Arrest Five After Intercepting Large Cache of Prohibited Drugs and Thwarting GH¢50,000 Bribe
news|

Ashanti South Police Arrest Five After Intercepting Large Cache of Prohibited Drugs and Thwarting GH¢50,000 Bribe

The Ashanti South Command of the Ghana Police Service has arrested five individuals following the interception of a significant quantity of prohibited drugs along the Obuasi–Dunkwa highway. The operation, which took place on February 13, 2026, at the Tweapease Police barrier, led to the discovery of high-dosage Tramadol and Tapentadol concealed within a commercial vehicle. This crackdown underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to dismantle illegal drug trafficking networks operating within the Ashanti Region and across the country. During a routine check, officers conducted a thorough search of a commercial bus driven by Joseph Nkrumah. The search yielded a substantial haul of controlled substances, including 257 packs of 50mg Tramadol, 58 packs of 250mg Tramadol, and 58 packs of 225mg Tapentadol. Upon questioning, the driver identified a local woman known as Perpetual as the owner of the illegal cargo. The precision of the interception highlights the effectiveness of police barriers in monitoring critical transit routes used for smuggling. The investigation took a dramatic turn the following day when Perpetual and three other female accomplices attempted to compromise the legal process. In a bold move to secure their release and halt the inquiry, the suspects allegedly offered the police officers a bribe of GH¢50,000. Refusing the illicit payment, the officers promptly apprehended the four women, adding bribery and interference with a police investigation to the initial drug-related charges. The Ghana Police Service has reiterated its unwavering commitment to maintaining public safety and combating the spread of prohibited drugs. By refusing the substantial bribe and proceeding with the arrests, the Ashanti South Command has sent a strong message regarding the integrity of the force. The five suspects remain in custody as investigations continue, with the police urging the public to provide information that could lead to further disruptions of the illegal drug trade in Ghana.

Tarkwa Farmer Sentenced to 18 Months for Destroying 68 Cocoa Trees
news|

Tarkwa Farmer Sentenced to 18 Months for Destroying 68 Cocoa Trees

A 25-year-old farmer, Samuel Asamoah, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison with hard labor for the unlawful destruction of 68 cocoa trees in the Tarkwa District. The ruling, delivered in April 2025, comes after Asamoah was found guilty of damaging the property of his colleague, Bukari Imoro, in the community of Huniso. The incident has drawn significant attention to the legal consequences of agricultural sabotage in a region heavily dependent on cocoa production. According to court proceedings, the complainant, Bukari Imoro, first grew suspicious of Asamoah’s activities after observing his behavior near the farm on multiple occasions. In April 2025, Asamoah visited the site and chopped down the maturing cocoa trees, causing substantial financial loss. Despite being summoned by village authorities to explain his actions, Asamoah refused to appear and instead issued threats of causing further destruction to Imoro's livelihood. This defiant stance led the complainant to lodge a formal report with the police on April 6, 2025, which ultimately resulted in the suspect’s arrest. During the trial, Asamoah pleaded guilty to the charges but failed to provide a clear motive for targeting his colleague’s farm. The court's decision to impose an 18-month sentence serves as a stern warning against the destruction of cash crops, which form the backbone of the local economy. For farmers like Bukari Imoro, the loss of dozens of cocoa trees represents a major setback, and the sentencing emphasizes the importance of protecting agricultural assets and resolving community disputes through the judicial system rather than through violence or destruction.