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.

Two people fleeing to Togo arrested over alleged murder of roommate in relation to fraud proceeds
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Ghanaian Police Probe Airport Resident’s Death and Apprehend Suspects in Tamale Murder and Child Stealing Cases

Ghanaian security agencies and the judiciary have intensified efforts to combat crime, resulting in a series of arrests and a significant conviction across various regions. From the sentencing of a child abductor in Accra to the pursuit of justice in a homicide case in Tamale and a mysterious shooting in the capital’s elite suburbs, law enforcement remains on high alert. These incidents highlight the diverse nature of contemporary crime in Ghana, ranging from domestic abduction to violent disputes over illegal financial gains and unexplained deaths in residential areas. In the legal sphere, the Adentan Circuit Court has convicted David Kpandoyo, a 25-year-old Togolese mason, for the abduction of a four-year-old boy. Kpandoyo stole the child from Kpedze in the Volta Region and transported him to Accra, where the boy was later discovered wandering alone in the New Legon area. Although Kpandoyo initially claimed the child had approached him at a drinking spot, he subsequently confessed to the police that he had abducted the minor. With the mother previously unaware of the boy's whereabouts, the court has scheduled Kpandoyo's sentencing for July 14, 2026, marking a significant resolution to a distressing case of child stealing. Simultaneously, the Northern Regional Police Command achieved a breakthrough in a violent crime investigation in Tamale. On July 11, 2026, officers arrested two Nigerian nationals, Daniel Victor Eze and David Oko Ewa, as they attempted to flee across the border into Togo. The duo is linked to the murder of 36-year-old Nkemujika Uzorchuku Eze in Sanzirigu. Preliminary police inquiries suggest the killing was motivated by a conspiracy involving financial disputes related to the proceeds of internet fraud. Authorities recovered several items stolen from the victim's residence, and the suspects remain in custody awaiting their court appearance. In Accra, the Homicide Unit of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is currently probing the circumstances surrounding the death of businessman Fred Akowuah. Mr. Akowuah, a resident popularly known as a "US borga," was found dead in his Airport Residential Area home following reports of a gunshot. Since the investigation began on June 9, 2026, detectives have been working to determine whether the incident was a case of homicide or suicide. This high-profile investigation continues to draw public attention as forensic teams examine the scene for evidence that could clarify the events leading to the fatal shooting. These cases underscore the ongoing challenges faced by Ghanaian law enforcement in maintaining public safety and securing national borders. The successful apprehension of suspects attempting to flee to neighboring Togo demonstrates the effectiveness of regional police coordination, while the conviction in the child-stealing case provides a sense of justice for the victim's family. As the CID continues its forensic examination into the Airport Residential shooting and the court prepares to sentence Kpandoyo, the public remains focused on the efficiency and transparency of the nation's criminal justice system.

Thai News Pix Tables and chairs are covered in ash at the scene of a fatal fire at a bar in Bangkok
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Dozens Dead in Côte d’Ivoire Bus Crash, Brussels Tower Fire, and Bangkok Venue Blaze

A series of devastating tragedies across Côte d’Ivoire, Belgium, and Thailand has left dozens dead and many more injured, prompting urgent investigations into transport and structural safety. In northwestern Côte d’Ivoire, at least 14 people were killed when an intercity bus operated by Diarra Transport plunged into the Bafing River. The bus, carrying over 50 passengers from Odienne to Yamoussoukro, veered off the road near Bafingdala village along the Touba-Biankou road. Local rescue teams are currently searching for several missing persons, while at least 40 survivors are receiving treatment for various injuries sustained in the plunge. In Brussels, a lethal fire at the Oxy tower construction site has claimed multiple lives, with emergency services discovering several victims inside a stuck lift shaft. The blaze spread rapidly through the building's infrastructure, complicating rescue efforts and leaving at least six people missing. The incident drew high-level attention, with King Philippe and Prime Minister Bart De Wever visiting the scene to support first responders. While the fire was contained, the heat was so intense that one firefighter required medical attention, and two other individuals suffered severe burns during the evacuation. Meanwhile, in Thailand, the death toll from a fire at a Bangkok bar has risen to 30. Preliminary investigations suggest the fire was caused by a short circuit in an air conditioning unit and was exacerbated by highly flammable interior decorations. Survivors described a chaotic scene with locked emergency doors and poor signage, which trapped many victims in restrooms as they sought to escape the rapidly spreading flames. It has since emerged that the establishment was registered as a restaurant, a status that allowed it to bypass the more stringent fire safety requirements mandated for entertainment venues. These disparate events highlight a global need for stricter adherence to safety protocols and regulatory oversight. In Bangkok, the bar owner's history with previous fires is being examined, while in Côte d’Ivoire and Brussels, authorities are focused on recovery and identifying the exact mechanical or structural failures that led to such significant loss of life. These tragedies serve as a somber reminder of the critical importance of emergency preparedness and the rigorous enforcement of safety standards to protect the public in both transit and commercial spaces.

Christian Council and GRA Lead Renewed National Drive for Environmental Sanitation and Civic Responsibility
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Christian Council and GRA Lead Renewed National Drive for Environmental Sanitation and Civic Responsibility

In a coordinated push toward a cleaner Ghana, the Christian Council of Ghana (CCG) and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) have launched significant initiatives to foster environmental stewardship and community sanitation. The CCG recently donated 500 copies of its educational booklet, titled "A Clean Environment – Our Responsibility," to the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), while the GRA Commissioner-General, Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, has made a clarion call to the business community to support youth-led clean-up exercises. Together, these efforts represent a multi-sectoral approach involving religious bodies, state institutions, and the private sector to address the perennial challenges of waste management and urban flooding. The Christian Council's donation, led by General Secretary Rev. Dr. Cyril Fayose, is a strategic move to leverage GBC’s nationwide media reach to promote the Environmental Care and Cleanliness Programme. This program, which was originally launched in April 2026 in partnership with the Ministry of Local Government, aims to shift public attitudes toward sanitation. Receiving the materials in Accra, GBC Director-General Professor Amin Alhassan pledged the corporation’s full support, emphasizing that media platforms are critical in transforming civic responsibility from a concept into a daily practice for all Ghanaians. Simultaneously, the Ghana Revenue Authority is emphasizing the physical and logistical side of environmental maintenance. Commissioner-General Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, speaking after participating in a National Sanitation Day exercise in Accra, urged businesses and philanthropists to provide tools and resources for local youth groups. He argued that supporting these grassroots initiatives is not just a social good but a necessity for business efficiency, as clean environments reduce health risks and improve productivity. Sarpong specifically highlighted the importance of clearing filth from flood-prone areas to mitigate the devastating effects of the rainy season. As these initiatives progress, the focus remains on sustainability and long-term behavioral change. The CCG plans to expand its educational outreach, while the GRA and local youth groups intend to continue their clean-up exercises in the coming months. By combining educational literature with active community mobilization, these organizations are laying the groundwork for a more resilient and sanitary national infrastructure, ultimately aiming to foster a culture where every citizen and business takes ownership of their immediate environment.

Ghana weather today: Rain, mist and rough seas expected across several regions
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Ghana Meteorological Agency Forecasts Morning Mist and Afternoon Thunderstorms Nationwide

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has issued a comprehensive weather forecast for July 14, 2023, predicting a day of varied atmospheric conditions ranging from early morning mist to intense afternoon thunderstorms. Southern Ghana is expected to be particularly affected by misty conditions and light rainfall during the early hours, which may significantly impact visibility for commuters and residents. As the day progresses, the focus of weather activity is projected to shift toward the northern and transition belts, where thunderstorms are likely to develop later in the afternoon and evening. In coastal areas, including the major hubs of Accra and Takoradi, light showers are anticipated, while inland regions such as Kumasi and Sunyani are expected to start the day with mist before clearing into sunny intervals. Despite the rain and cloud cover in the south, the northern sector of the country is forecast to remain the hottest, with temperatures climbing to a maximum of 36°C. This temperature disparity highlights the distinct weather patterns currently influencing different geographic zones across the country, with localized rain also expected in parts of the Eastern Region and Greater Accra. Safety remains a primary concern for the agency, which has issued specific warnings for motorists and maritime workers. Drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution due to reduced visibility caused by fog and heavy rain, especially in forested areas and during the early morning period. Furthermore, the GMet has advised fishers and small vessel operators to be wary of rough sea conditions along the coast. These warnings come as part of a broader alert following heavy thunderstorms that have already impacted the northern and transition zones, necessitating heightened vigilance for residents in affected areas throughout the day.

U.S. Embassy in Accra Announces Two-Week Suspension of Consular Services for Maintenance
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U.S. Embassy in Accra Announces Two-Week Suspension of Consular Services for Maintenance

The United States Embassy in Accra has announced a temporary suspension of most routine consular services scheduled to take place from July 20 to July 31, 2026. This two-week hiatus is necessary to facilitate essential facility maintenance within the embassy compound. According to official communications, regular operations and all standard consular appointments are expected to resume on Monday, August 3, 2026. The embassy has urged the public to take note of these dates to avoid any inconvenience regarding travel plans or documentation needs. During the maintenance period, several key services will be unavailable, including walk-in notarial appointments and the processing of Consular Reports of Death Abroad. However, the embassy has outlined specific exceptions to ensure that some critical workflows continue. For instance, individuals who have already been notified that their passports or other documents are ready for collection may still pick them up on Thursdays during the suspension period. Furthermore, the processing of adult passport renewals through the established drop box system will remain operational, providing a degree of continuity for U.S. citizens. For American citizens experiencing emergencies, the embassy has confirmed that assistance will remain available throughout the maintenance window. A duty officer can be reached at the embassy’s primary contact number, +233 (0) 30 274 1000, for urgent matters. Members of the public are strongly advised to plan their consular requirements well in advance of the July 20 start date. The embassy recommends regularly checking its official website and communication channels for any potential updates or additional information regarding the resumption of services and any changes to the maintenance schedule.

Bole Police Arrest 40-Year-Old Woman for Allegedly Murdering Husband Following Domestic Dispute
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Bole Police Arrest 40-Year-Old Woman for Allegedly Murdering Husband Following Domestic Dispute

The Bole District Police in the Savannah Region have taken into custody a 40-year-old woman, identified as Mmaa, for the alleged murder of her husband. The tragic incident occurred at their residence following a heated domestic dispute that escalated during the night. The victim, a local farmer, was reportedly attacked in a state of vulnerability, leading to a fatal outcome that has shocked the local community. According to accounts provided by the couple’s children, a misunderstanding between the parents preceded the violence. One of the daughters reported hearing her mother explicitly threaten to kill her father during their argument. Later that night, while the husband was asleep, Mmaa allegedly carried out the attack. Although neighbors were quickly sought for assistance, they returned to find the victim unconscious in a pool of blood. He was rushed to the hospital but was tragically pronounced dead on arrival. The couple had nine children together, with the youngest being only four years old. The sudden death of the father and the arrest of the mother have left the large family in a state of distress and uncertainty. Authorities have indicated that the victim's body has been released to the family to proceed with burial arrangements according to their traditions. Investigations into the motive and the specific circumstances surrounding the attack are currently ongoing. Mmaa remains in police custody as officials prepare the case for the legal process. This incident highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence on the family unit, leaving nearly a dozen children without the immediate care of either parent.

Ing. Kwabena Bempong Announces Accra-Tema Motorway Reconstruction is 48% Complete with Focus on Flood Mitigation
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Ing. Kwabena Bempong Announces Accra-Tema Motorway Reconstruction is 48% Complete with Focus on Flood Mitigation

The reconstruction of the vital Accra-Tema Motorway has reached a significant milestone, with construction consultant Ing. Kwabena Bempong reporting that the project is now 48% complete. This update marks a crucial stage in the redevelopment of one of Ghana’s most critical transport arteries, which serves as a backbone for commerce and commuting between the capital and the industrial hub of Tema. The ongoing works are particularly focused on enhancing the road's resilience against the recurring threat of urban flooding through advanced engineering and expanded drainage capacity. A primary feature of the current phase is the comprehensive overhaul of the area’s drainage infrastructure. According to Ing. Bempong, the project includes the construction of 20 culverts and three major interchanges, most of which are nearing completion. In addition to the main motorway, the project prioritizes an urban highway designed to serve as a service road, ensuring smoother local traffic flow. These improvements are strategically designed to manage stormwater more effectively, addressing long-standing concerns regarding flooding that frequently disrupts transit along this route during the rainy season. Despite the scale of the construction, engineers have implemented measures to ensure the motorway remains passable for motorists throughout the project duration. The project team has acknowledged that managing traffic diversions remains one of the most significant challenges during this phase of work. However, safety protocols are strictly enforced to minimize risks to both workers and the public. The coordination of these diversions is essential to maintaining productivity on the site while reducing the inconvenience caused to the thousands of commuters who rely on the motorway daily. This progress report follows a nationwide clean-up initiative led by President John Dramani Mahama, which was launched in response to recent flooding crises across the country. The integration of robust drainage systems into the motorway project aligns with this broader national effort to improve urban infrastructure and disaster preparedness. As the project moves toward its second half, the completion of the interchanges and culverts is expected to provide much-needed relief to motorists and residents alike, significantly reducing the impact of heavy rains on the regional transport network.

Ghana National Fire Service Rescues Driver Trapped in Cargo Truck and Excavator Collision in Volta Region
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Ghana National Fire Service Rescues Driver Trapped in Cargo Truck and Excavator Collision in Volta Region

In a swift emergency response, personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) successfully rescued a man trapped in the wreckage of a cargo truck following a serious head-on collision with an excavator. The incident occurred on the Kpetoe-Sarakope Road in the Volta Region, a stretch currently undergoing significant construction work. The collision involved a MAN Diesel cargo truck and heavy machinery, prompting an immediate distress call to the Kpetoe Fire Station on a Sunday afternoon. Firefighters arrived at the scene shortly after the alert and utilized specialized equipment to extricate the male occupant, who was pinned within the mangled cabin of the truck. Upon his successful rescue, the victim was immediately transported to the Ho Teaching Hospital for medical treatment. While the specific extent of his injuries has not been officially detailed, the GNFS confirmed that the rescue operation was prioritized to ensure the victim received urgent care as quickly as possible. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation by the relevant authorities. However, the incident has sparked renewed concerns among residents in the Kpetoe-Sarakope area regarding road safety protocols. Locals have attributed a recent surge in accidents along this route to the ongoing roadwork, pointing to inadequate safety measures and poor visibility around construction equipment. Residents and commuters have urged contractors and road authorities to enhance traffic management and install more prominent warning signage to protect motorists. As the Ghana National Fire Service continues to emphasize the importance of road safety, this rescue highlights the critical role of emergency services in managing highway incidents. The ongoing investigation will seek to determine whether mechanical failure, human error, or construction-related hazards played a primary role in the collision. For now, motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution and adhere to lower speed limits when navigating construction zones across the Volta Region.

Body of 11-year-old boy retrieved from pit at Adenta Aviation
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GNFS Recovers Body of 11-Year-Old Samuel Awalime After Tragic Drowning at Adenta Aviation

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has successfully retrieved the body of an 11-year-old boy, Samuel Awalime, following a tragic drowning incident at Adenta Aviation in the Greater Accra Region. The recovery, which took place on Monday, July 13, concluded a distressing search for the young boy after he was reported to have drowned in a pit located within the aviation area. The incident has left the local community in shock as they grapple with the sudden and tragic loss of a young life. The operation was a highly coordinated effort led by personnel from the Adenta Fire Station, under the command of Divisional Officer III (DO III) Obosu. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the GNFS worked in close collaboration with multiple stakeholders, including the Ghana Police Service, local chiefs, and members of the traditional council. The search and recovery mission lasted for several intensive hours, with emergency responders utilizing specialized skills to navigate the pit and eventually locate the body. Success in the retrieval operation was finally achieved at approximately 10:50 AM on Monday morning. Following the recovery, the GNFS team promptly handed over the remains of Samuel Awalime to the Adenta Division of the Ghana Police Service. This handover officially transitions the case from a search and rescue operation to a formal police investigation, as authorities seek to understand the exact circumstances and chain of events that led to the child's drowning. While the specific details regarding how the boy ended up in the pit remain under investigation, the incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding safety around open pits and construction sites in residential and industrial zones. The Adenta Police are currently conducting inquiries to determine if there were any lapses in safety protocols or if the pit was properly secured. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses and the local traditional council reviews safety measures at the Adenta Aviation site to prevent such heart-wrenching occurrences in the future.

Road crash: 3 dead, 15 injured near Juaso on Kumasi-Accra highway
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Ghana National Fire Service Responds to Fatal Juaso Collision and Amanase Tanker Rescue on Kumasi-Accra Highway

A tragic road traffic accident at Juaso on the Kumasi-Accra highway has claimed three lives and left fifteen others with varying degrees of injury. The collision, which occurred on Monday, July 13, 2026, is the latest in a series of serious incidents along this critical transport corridor. According to reports from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), the deceased included two males and one female who died at the scene, while the injured survivors were stabilized and transported to nearby medical facilities for urgent care. Detailed reports from the scene near the NEXT BON Gas station indicate that a truck carrying a load of clinker, registered as GN 9673-25 and driven by Stephen Amankwah, collided with a van, registered as GM 4002-26 and driven by Nyame Ebenezer. The impact of the crash necessitated a swift response from emergency services to manage the 18 individuals involved. GNFS personnel confirmed that while some victims were treated on-site for minor injuries, fifteen passengers required hospitalization due to the severity of their conditions following the impact. This fatal crash follows another significant road incident just a day earlier on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at Amanase on the same highway. In that event, a HOWO tanker traveling from Kumasi toward Accra veered off the road and plunged into the bush. Firefighters from the Suhum Municipal Fire Station utilized specialized rescue equipment to extricate the driver, who had become trapped within the heavily damaged cabin. Although the tanker suffered extensive front-end damage, no fatalities were recorded in the Amanase incident, and the driver was successfully transported to the Suhum Government Hospital. Authorities have launched investigations into both accidents to determine the exact causes, with preliminary assessments in the Amanase case suggesting either mechanical failure or human error. These back-to-back occurrences on the Kumasi-Accra highway highlight the persistent safety challenges on one of Ghana's busiest roads. The Ghana National Fire Service and motor traffic officials continue to urge drivers to exercise extreme caution and ensure regular vehicle maintenance to prevent further tragedies on the national highways.

APTN Tables and chairs are covered in ash inside the venue, which shows huge fire damage. The picture is taken through a door frame.
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At Least 27 Killed and Eight Critically Injured in Devastating Bangkok Bar Fire

A devastating fire at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao bar in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district has claimed at least 27 lives and left eight others in critical condition. The tragic incident occurred around midnight, quickly turning a night of leisure into a scene of chaos and despair. Emergency services were alerted by a passerby who noticed flames erupting from the venue, prompting a swift response from local firefighters. However, despite their efforts, the speed and intensity of the blaze resulted in significant loss of life, with many victims succumbing to smoke inhalation as they tried to escape the inferno. Investigations into the cause of the fire are currently underway, with the Prime Minister indicating that authorities are working to determine the exact circumstances that led to the tragedy. Preliminary reports suggest the fire may have originated at a cut-out switch near the stage area. Eyewitnesses described a harrowing scene where patrons scrambled to find exits as thick, black smoke filled the bar. In a particularly heartbreaking discovery, several bodies were found in the venue’s restrooms, where individuals had reportedly sought refuge in a desperate but ultimately futile attempt to shield themselves from the heat and flames. Bangkok city officials have pointed to the use of highly combustible interior decorations as a primary reason for the fire's rapid progression. The decorations facilitated the swift spread of the blaze, leaving those inside with very little time to evacuate safely. This incident has reignited urgent conversations regarding the enforcement of fire safety standards and building regulations in Thailand. It serves as a grim reminder of previous disasters, such as the 2009 nightclub fire that killed 66 people and a 2019 bar blaze that resulted in 22 fatalities. As the investigation continues, there is mounting pressure on authorities to ensure that such preventable tragedies do not recur in the country’s entertainment venues.

National Chief Imam Mourns Late Yaa Naa as Community Tensions Disrupt Local Burial in Ntonso
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National Chief Imam Mourns Late Yaa Naa as Community Tensions Disrupt Local Burial in Ntonso

The nation of Ghana is currently processing several high-profile bereavements, headlined by the passing of the Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II. National Chief Imam, Sheikh Dr Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, has officially expressed deep sorrow over the monarch's transition, describing it as a monumental loss for both the Dagbon people and the entire country. In a condolence message issued on July 13, 2026, the Chief Imam hailed the late king as a symbol of unity and integrity whose leadership successfully bridged traditional values with the demands of modern governance. He emphasized the Yaa Naa’s significant contributions to national peace, stability, and development, urging the people of Dagbon to accept the loss as the will of Allah while praying for continued tranquility in the region. While the nation reflects on the legacy of the Yaa Naa, a localized conflict has erupted in the Ashanti Region, where residents of Ntonso took the drastic step of blocking a burial. The deceased, who was the husband of Patricia Osei Boateng, was allegedly linked to the murder of Andrews Kwame Amankwah, the father-in-law of GoldBod CEO Sammy Gyamfi. According to reports and viral social media footage, community members intervened to prevent the coffin from being lowered into the grave, citing the unresolved allegations surrounding the death of Mr. Amankwah. This dramatic confrontation underscores the high emotions and the community's demand for justice regarding the recent murder case. In a separate announcement of bereavement, the Ngleshie Alata Paramount Stool Council and various families have shared the funeral arrangements for Madam Rebecca Markai Dickson, affectionately known as Becky Becks. Madam Dickson passed away on June 6, 2026, in Adjiringanor, Accra. Her burial service is scheduled for Thursday, July 30, 2026, at the Trinity Presbyterian Church in Dansoman, to be followed by a private interment. A thanksgiving service will conclude the rites on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at the same venue, as friends and sympathizers are invited to pay their final respects. These events collectively highlight a period of transition and communal reckoning across Ghana. From the state-level tributes for a revered traditional ruler to the grassroots pursuit of justice in Ntonso and the organized rites for community figures in Accra, the nation continues to navigate the complexities of grief and tradition. As the Dagbon Kingdom prepares for its next steps in succession and the Ntonso community awaits further investigation into the murder allegations, these stories remain at the forefront of the national consciousness, reflecting the diverse ways in which Ghanaians honor the dead and seek accountability.