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.

Vincent Lotsu arrested for cultivating cannabis along Volta Lake
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Vincent Lotsu arrested for cultivating cannabis along Volta Lake

The Kpando-based Marine Police have arrested 31-year-old Vincent Lotsu for allegedly operating a cannabis plantation and possessing narcotic substances along the banks of the Volta Lake. The arrest occurred in the community of Mangoase, located within the Central Tongu District of the Volta Region, during a routine patrol conducted by officers on October 13, 2026. During the security operation, officers discovered a fenced wooden structure that led to further inspection of the surrounding area. Behind the enclosure, the police identified a plantation of suspected cannabis. In addition to the standing crops, the team retrieved 16 sacks of dried leaves suspected to be cannabis, which appeared to have been harvested and prepared for transport. Following the discovery, Lotsu was taken into custody and subsequently handed over to the Kpando Police Divisional Investigation Department for further questioning. The suspect faces charges including the unlawful cultivation and possession of narcotic substances. The seized materials have been sent to a crime laboratory for forensic examination to confirm their chemical composition. This enforcement action highlights the ongoing efforts of the Marine Police to curb illegal activities and the production of illicit substances along Ghana's water bodies. Authorities indicate that patrols will remain frequent in the region to identify and dismantle similar hidden operations in remote lakeside communities.

Two male suspects are seen standing in handcuffs inside a Ghana Police Service office. Their faces are blurred, and they are positioned in front of a door and information boards listing police commanders. The man on the left wears a two-tone sleeveless shirt and jeans, while the man on the right is in a brown traditional kaftan.
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Saviour Dzadze arrested in Kpando for possessing an AK-47 and narcotics

The Volta North Regional Police Command has arrested 31-year-old Saviour Dzadze in Kpando for the unlawful possession of firearms and the cultivation of suspected narcotics. The arrest, which occurred on October 14, 2026, followed a complaint that the suspect had allegedly threatened an individual at gunpoint. Upon receiving the report, police conducted a search of Dzadze's hideout, leading to the recovery of several weapons and a stash of illegal drugs at the premises. During the operation, investigators found an AK-47 assault rifle, a pump-action shotgun, and a single-barrel gun. A quantity of suspected Indian hemp was also seized during the search. According to police sources, Dzadze claimed he obtained the AK-47 by trading Indian hemp for the weapon. He further alleged that the pump-action shotgun was a gift from his brother, while the single-barrel gun was an inheritance from his late father. The regional police have reaffirmed their dedication to eliminating illegal weaponry and drug-related crimes in the area to ensure public safety. They have encouraged the public to continue providing timely information to assist in maintaining security within their communities. While Dzadze remains in custody, investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of his activities and to verify the claims regarding the acquisition of the firearms.

A high-ranking Ghana Police Service officer stands next to an automated traffic enforcement camera mounted on a tripod. He is dressed in a black service uniform and appears to be demonstrating or explaining the TraffiTech-GH technology used for road safety monitoring.
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TraffiTech-GH reduces road fatalities during pilot phase

The Ghana Police Service’s digital traffic enforcement system, TraffiTech-GH, has recorded a notable decrease in road crashes and fatalities during its pilot phase. Authorities have confirmed that the program, which integrates advanced technology to monitor driving behavior, will officially transition to full-scale operations on November 1, 2026. The pilot phase provided critical data on the efficacy of automated enforcement in curbing traffic violations across monitored zones. According to statistics released by Police Sergeant Yussif Braimah, the period from September 2025 to September 2026 saw a measurable improvement in road safety metrics. Total recorded crashes fell from 1,108 to 1,003, while the number of injuries sustained in road accidents dropped from 1,405 to 1,194. Most significantly, road fatalities decreased from 243 to 224 over the twelve-month period. These figures suggest that the presence of digital monitoring has a tangible impact on reducing the severity and frequency of road incidents. The TraffiTech-GH initiative utilizes a network of cameras and digital sensors to detect violations such as speeding and running red lights. Unlike traditional manual enforcement, the system automatically captures traffic offenses and generates warning notices sent to vehicle owners. This approach is designed to promote compliance with traffic regulations and encourage safer driving habits through consistent, non-intrusive monitoring. The pilot extension allowed the police to refine the technology while increasing public awareness about the upcoming full implementation. As the program moves toward its nationwide launch in November, officials emphasize that the primary goal is behavioral change rather than punitive measures. By automating the detection of offenses, the Ghana Police Service aims to create a more efficient enforcement environment that reduces the reliance on physical checkpoints. The full rollout is expected to further stabilize road safety figures as more drivers become accustomed to the digital surveillance framework.

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Mahama Ayariga urges private sector to support Agbogbloshie clean-up

Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs Minister Mahama Ayariga has made a public appeal to the private sector to support the ongoing Agbogbloshie landfill evacuation and river dredging project. The call follows a significant contribution from the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), which donated fuel and financial resources valued at more than GH₵250,000 to facilitate the operation. The minister expressed hope that other corporate entities would follow this example to ensure the project stays on schedule. The initiative, which was commissioned by President John Dramani Mahama, aims to clear decades of accumulated waste from the Agbogbloshie site and dredge local river systems to mitigate the risk of seasonal flooding. Minister Ayariga noted that the government's efforts have already resulted in a drastic reduction in waste volumes at the site. However, he emphasized that the scale of the remaining evacuation requires sustained logistics, particularly heavy machinery and the fuel necessary to power them. During his assessment of the progress, Ayariga lauded COMAC for its proactive stance and highlighted that private sector participation is essential for the project's success. He noted that donations of fuel and equipment are the most critical needs at this stage, as they directly impact the speed of waste removal and the clearing of drainage channels. The minister's call is part of a broader effort to foster public-private partnerships in urban waste management. The successful clearing of the Agbogbloshie landfill is seen as a critical component of Accra’s wider urban renewal and flood prevention strategy. As the government intensifies its operations, the Ministry is focused on ensuring that drainage channels are free of obstructions before the onset of heavier rains. The government expects that with increased private sector involvement, the environmental restoration efforts will protect local communities and improve the city's overall sanitation landscape.

GoldBod commits GH‵35m to restore galamsey-damaged Tano Nimri Forest
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GoldBod commits GH‵35m to restore galamsey-damaged Tano Nimri Forest

The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has committed approximately GH‵35 million to a comprehensive reclamation and reforestation project in the Tano Nimri Forest Reserve. The initiative is designed to address the severe environmental destruction caused by illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey. The project aims to eventually rehabilitate 200 hectares of the forest, with current operations focusing on an initial 50-hectare tract. Execution of the project involves a strategic partnership between GoldBod, the Forestry Commission, and the Ghana Armed Forces. According to reports from the participating agencies, substantial engineering work has already been completed. These efforts include the filling of deep, hazardous mining pits and the stabilization of soil in areas where illegal excavation had left the land vulnerable to erosion and ecological collapse. This restoration drive is a key component of the National Reclamation and Environmental Restoration Programme, which seeks to reverse the damage to Ghana’s natural heritage. By reintegrating indigenous tree species and stabilizing the landscape, the programme aims to revive the local ecosystem and bolster biodiversity. This phase of the project serves as a pilot for sustainable forest management in regions heavily impacted by unregulated mining. Looking ahead, GoldBod has expressed a desire to expand these restoration efforts through collaboration with the private sector. The board is actively seeking support from corporate partners to ensure the scalability and longevity of the reclamation program. The successful restoration of the Tano Nimri Forest Reserve is expected to serve as a blueprint for future environmental recovery projects across the country's devastated forest zones.

Emmanuel Adams and Vincent Aidoo jailed 20 years for motorbike robbery
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Emmanuel Adams and Vincent Aidoo jailed 20 years for motorbike robbery

The Circuit Court in Bekwai has sentenced two young men, 23-year-old Emmanuel Adams and 22-year-old Vincent Aidoo, to 20 years in prison for their roles in a violent motorbike robbery at Edwenase, near Jacobu in the Ashanti Region. The court handed down the verdict after finding both individuals guilty of conspiracy and robbery following an incident that took place on October 4, 2026. The swift judicial outcome followed a police investigation that led to the immediate arrest of the suspects and the recovery of the stolen property. The court heard that the duo targeted a 16-year-old boy, Bismark Boafo, by tricking him into stopping his motorcycle. Once the victim was vulnerable, Adams and Aidoo used an electric shocker to incapacitate him before fleeing with the vehicle. The prosecution detailed how the convicts planned the attack, highlighting the use of the electronic device to overpower the teenager. Despite their efforts to escape, police officers tracking the case were able to locate the suspects and return the motorcycle to its owner. In his ruling, the presiding judge sentenced both Adams and Aidoo to 15 years for conspiracy to commit a crime and 20 years for robbery. The court ordered that both sentences run concurrently, resulting in a total custodial sentence of 20 years for each convict. This sentencing serves as a stern warning regarding the increasing use of electronic weapons in local robberies and reflects the court's commitment to protecting residents from violent crime in the Ashanti Region.

Obrempong Kwasi Amo Kyeretwie (middle) with members of the two parties after amicably resolving the dispute
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Obrempong Kwasi Amo Kyeretwie resolves Akoasi chieftaincy dispute

The Gyaasehene of the Akyem Kotoku Traditional Area, Obrempong Kwasi Amo Kyeretwie, has successfully mediated a long-standing chieftaincy dispute in Akoasi that had previously stalled local development. The conflict involved the chief of Akoasi, Osabarima Gyasi Boateng Aduako II, and his Krontihene, Nana Osei Boateng III. To facilitate a peaceful settlement, the parties agreed to withdraw the case from the Akyem Kotoku Traditional Council, opting instead for an amicable arbitration process to restore unity within the community. The resolution process featured a blend of traditional authority and modern technology, as the Krontihene, Nana Osei Boateng III, participated in the arbitration via Zoom from his residence in Italy. Several prominent traditional rulers from the Akyem Kotoku area witnessed the proceedings, where both factions committed to ending their legal hostilities. To formalize the peace and satisfy traditional requirements, Obrempong Kwasi Amo Kyeretwie pledged to provide a ram for the performance of necessary rituals, symbolizing the spiritual and social reconciliation between the two leaders. Following the settlement, Obrempong Kyeretwie issued a stern warning to both parties and the wider community against revisiting past grievances or attempting to reignite the conflict. He emphasized that he would take decisive action against anyone found to be instigating further division. The gathering also addressed issues of public conduct, as two bloggers who had been accused of damaging the Gyaasehene’s reputation through defamatory publications rendered a public apology and promised to change their behavior. The successful resolution of this protracted dispute is expected to pave the way for renewed progress and social cohesion in Akoasi. Local residents and stakeholders have welcomed the development, noting that the leadership impasse had been a major hurdle to the town's growth. By prioritizing mediation over litigation, the traditional leaders have signaled a new chapter of stability intended to attract investment and foster communal harmony in the district.

William Ato Essien files motion to amend grounds of appeal against jail term
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William Ato Essien files motion to amend grounds of appeal against jail term

William Ato Essien, the founder of the defunct Capital Bank, has submitted a formal motion to the Court of Appeal to modify the legal grounds of his challenge against his 15-year prison sentence. This filing represents a critical procedural step in Essien's ongoing legal effort to overturn the conviction and sentence handed down following the collapse of the financial institution he led. The motion, filed on October 5, 2026, specifically invokes Rule 7 and Rule 38 of the Court of Appeal Rules, 1997 (CI 19). By citing these rules, Essien is seeking to leverage the inherent jurisdiction of the court to adjust the framework of his appeal. This mechanism allows appellants to refine their legal arguments to ensure that all relevant issues are properly considered by the appellate judges during the substantive hearing. Essien’s attempt to amend his grounds of appeal highlights the continuing legal complexities surrounding the Capital Bank case. As the Court of Appeal prepares to hear the application, the focus remains on whether the proposed amendments will be accepted, thereby potentially shifting the trajectory of his pursuit of an acquittal or a reduced sentence. The 15-year custodial sentence remains one of the most high-profile judgments stemming from the Ghanaian banking sector cleanup.

Douglas Acheampong's family demands justice for alleged military killing
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Douglas Acheampong's family demands justice for alleged military killing

The family of 29-year-old Douglas Acheampong is calling on the government and the Ghana Police Service to expedite investigations into his alleged murder by military personnel in Akyem Hemang, Eastern Region. During a one-week observance held on October 16, 2026, relatives and community members gathered to mourn the young man and demand accountability for his death. The family expressed profound grief, noting that the pace of the official inquiry has been insufficient given the gravity of the incident. The fatal shooting occurred on August 26, 2026, under circumstances that have sparked local outrage. According to eyewitness accounts and family statements, Acheampong was allegedly shot after he attempted to intervene during an operation by military personnel. The soldiers were reportedly in the process of arresting another resident who was suspected of being an informant. The family maintains that Douglas was an innocent bystander who was killed while trying to navigate a tense situation involving the military and the local community. At the observance, the victim’s mother, Akosua Henewaa, made a direct appeal to the state authorities to ensure that her son’s death does not go unpunished. She urged the government to identify and prosecute the specific personnel involved in the shooting. Her sentiments were echoed by the family head, Oyokoa I Abusuapanyin Kwame Boakye, who emphasized that a transparent investigation is essential for the family to find closure and for the community to maintain trust in the security forces. The incident has raised questions regarding the rules of engagement for military personnel deployed within civilian areas. As the family awaits further communication from the police, they have called for a thorough and unbiased probe into the use of lethal force during the arrest. The case continues to draw attention in the Eastern Region, where residents are closely monitoring the authorities' response to the family's demands for justice and legal redress.

Gbane mining site: 16 arrested as police, military seize guns, 209 rounds of ammunition
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Upper East Regional Police arrest 16 suspects at Gbane mining site

The Upper East Regional Police Command has conducted a targeted security operation at the Gbane mining site in the Talensi District, resulting in the arrest of 16 suspects. The sweep, which involved several specialized police units, was launched in response to growing security concerns and community tensions within the mining hub. This operation is part of broader efforts to restore order and crack down on illegal activities in the region’s mineral-rich areas. During the exercise, security personnel recovered a significant cache of weapons and logistics. Officers seized two pump-action guns along with 209 rounds of ammunition, including 104 live AA cartridges. In addition to the firearms, the police found suspected narcotics and unauthorized security uniforms among the items held by the suspects. Parallel to the police sweep, a military operation in the same vicinity led to the apprehension of an additional six suspects, bringing the total number of individuals detained during the security crackdown to 22. All 16 suspects arrested by the police are currently in custody as investigations continue into their activities and the source of the seized weapons. The Upper East Regional Police Command has maintained a heightened presence in Gbane, with continuous security patrols deployed to prevent any escalation of violence or illegal mining-related disturbances. Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the safety of residents and the lawful conduct of mining activities in the district.

Ghana Police Service arrests eight suspects at Okaishie Drug Lane
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Ghana Police Service arrests eight suspects at Okaishie Drug Lane

The Ghana Police Service has arrested eight suspects during a targeted anti-narcotics operation at Okaishie Drug Lane in Accra. The exercise, conducted on October 9, 2026, was part of a strategic law enforcement effort to dismantle networks involved in the distribution of narcotic substances and unregulated pharmaceutical products within the capital's central business district. Those taken into custody during the raid have been identified as Jeremiah Chinedu, 33; Godsway Dabla, 29; Nwaiyo Charles, 64; Nwachukwu Kanawu, 41; John Divine; Gideon Edioke, 29; Ikechukwu Paul, 60; and Okwesibieze Precious, 23. During the search and seizure phase of the operation, police officers intercepted various controlled substances, including significant quantities of Tramadol tablets, Rohypnol, and various products containing codeine. These items are frequently sold illegally without the required medical prescriptions, posing a severe risk to public safety and community health. The suspects are currently in police custody as they assist with further inquiries into the supply chains and origins of the seized illicit drugs. Law enforcement authorities have reiterated their commitment to intensifying such operations to curb the proliferation of dangerous narcotics and ensure that the pharmaceutical trade in Ghana remains strictly regulated. The police emphasized that this crackdown is essential for protecting the public from the harmful effects of drug abuse and unregulated medications.

Nsawam High Court prohibits Osenase Homecoming durbar over security
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Nsawam High Court prohibits Osenase Homecoming durbar over security

The High Court in Nsawam, presided over by Justice Paul Oduro, has issued a formal prohibition against the grand durbar and street carnivals planned for the Osenase Homecoming. This ruling, delivered on October 14, 2026, comes in response to significant security concerns linked to a long-standing chieftaincy dispute in the area. The court found that the event organizers failed to provide the mandatory prior notification to the police as required under the Public Order Act, 1994 (Act 491), which governs public assembly and safety. The court's decision reinforces an earlier ban imposed by the West Akim Municipal Security Council (MUSEC), which had already restricted public gatherings involving rival factions in Osenase. Justice Oduro highlighted the potential for the homecoming activities to escalate into communal violence, given the volatile tensions between the competing groups. By bypassing the statutory notification process, the organizers were deemed to have created a situation that posed a direct threat to public safety and order in the municipality. During the legal proceedings, it was established that the prohibition is not an indefinite cancellation of the town's celebrations but a necessary safety measure for the current period. The court clarified that the restriction remains in place only until the organizers comply with all legal requirements and the local security council determines that the threat of violence has subsided. The ruling underscores the priority of national security and public order over cultural festivities when there is a documented risk of conflict between factions. In his closing remarks, Justice Oduro stated that the court remains open to future applications by the organizers once the appropriate administrative procedures are satisfied and the municipal ban is lifted. Until then, all residents and factions are expected to comply with the directive to avoid legal repercussions. This measure aims to preserve the peace in Osenase while the underlying chieftaincy issues are addressed through the proper traditional and legal channels.