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.

AMA appeals for help to trace relatives of 65-year-old woman found at Kaneshie
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Accra Metropolitan Assembly seeks relatives of woman found at Kaneshie

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) is appealing to the general public for assistance in identifying and locating the relatives of a 65-year-old woman found in Kaneshie. The woman, identified as Aba Esi, was discovered loitering in the area on October 3, 2026, suffering from a severe leg wound. She is currently receiving medical treatment under the supervision of social welfare officers as authorities work to facilitate a reunion with her family. According to the Assembly, Aba Esi was found in a vulnerable state, and the severity of her injury necessitated immediate medical intervention. Felicia Amoakohene, the Head of the AMA’s Department of Social Welfare, stated that the department is prioritizing the woman's health while concurrently investigating her background. Social welfare officers are currently managing her care and are dedicated to ensuring she is returned to a safe environment. Mrs. Amoakohene emphasized the critical role of community engagement in such cases, urging citizens to use social media and personal networks to help spread information about the woman's situation. The Assembly believes that public cooperation is essential for a breakthrough in tracing her lineage or place of residence. Anyone with relevant information regarding Aba Esi or her family is requested to contact the AMA Department of Social Welfare through the dedicated phone lines at 024 185 6401 or 024 250 2497. This appeal highlights the ongoing efforts by metropolitan authorities to manage cases of missing or vulnerable elderly persons within the capital. The Assembly remains hopeful that through collective public effort, Aba Esi can be safely reintegrated with her relatives, where she can receive the long-term support and care required for her recovery and well-being.

Gamel Gorkeh Nkrumah and his sister, Samia with a framed photo of their parents, Dr Kwame and Fathia Nkrumah at a state function
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Gamal Gorkeh Nkrumah, son of Kwame Nkrumah, dies in Cairo at age 68

Gamal Gorkeh Nkrumah, the second son of Ghana’s first President Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, has passed away in Cairo, Egypt, at the age of 68. His death, which occurred after a prolonged battle with illness, was announced by his family, drawing tributes from across the continent and the international community. As a prominent journalist and intellectual, Gorkeh was widely regarded as a dedicated advocate for his father’s Pan-African ideals, spending much of his life promoting African unity and international solidarity through his prolific writing and editorial work. For over 15 years, Gorkeh served as a senior editor at Al-Ahram Weekly, an influential English-language newspaper based in Egypt. In this capacity, he specialized in African politics and global affairs, providing insightful analysis on the continent's socioeconomic development and its geopolitical standing. Educated in political science, his work often sought to bridge the historical legacy of the Pan-African movement with the contemporary challenges facing modern African nations. He was celebrated by colleagues for his unwavering commitment to justice and his deep understanding of the diverse political landscapes across Africa. The family has confirmed that burial rites will be held in Cairo, in accordance with Islamic traditions, where he had lived and worked for many years. Gorkeh is survived by his wife, two adult children, and his siblings, including the politician Samia Nkrumah and brother Sekou Nkrumah. While he made his home in Egypt, his connection to his Ghanaian heritage remained central to his public life and intellectual contributions. Further details regarding memorial arrangements are expected to be shared in the coming days as the global Pan-African community mourns the loss of a significant voice.

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Security agencies intercept eight pistols and cartridges at Takoradi Port

Security agencies at the Takoradi Port have intercepted a cache of firearms and ammunition during a routine inspection at the Takoradi Integrated Terminal (TIT). The joint operation led to the discovery of eight pistols and 400 blank cartridges concealed within a container, marking a significant intervention by maritime and national security forces. The illicit items were identified during a physical examination of the cargo, which has since been halted for further processing. The interception was the result of a coordinated effort involving the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI), and National Security personnel. During the physical examination of a container identified under Bill of Entry (BOE) No. 41026792479, officials discovered a black bag containing the weapons and ammunition. The items were found hidden among other declared goods, prompting an immediate response from the on-site security team to secure the area. While the discovery was immediate, the full physical examination of the consignment was only partially completed due to adverse weather conditions at the terminal. Despite the interruption, security officials have secured all intercepted items for safekeeping to ensure they do not re-enter the port's logistical chain. Authorities have indicated that the remaining contents of the container will be scrutinized thoroughly once weather conditions permit to ensure no other prohibited items are present. Official investigations have been launched to determine the origin of the weapons and the identities of the individuals or entities responsible for the importation. This incident underscores the ongoing vigilance of Ghanaian security agencies in monitoring the country’s ports of entry to curb the illegal trade of small arms and light weapons. Further details regarding the consignee and the intended destination of the pistols and cartridges are expected to be disclosed as the investigation proceeds.

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Gideon Owusu jailed 18 months for car tape theft at Asante Akropong

The Asante Akropong District Court has sentenced a 24-year-old driver's mate, Gideon Owusu, to 18 months in prison for breaking into a vehicle and stealing a car tape. Owusu was convicted on his own plea after being charged with unlawful damage, attempted crime, and stealing. The court's decision follows his apprehension by police officers while he was still inside the vehicle he had targeted. The incident occurred on October 9, 2026, after the complainant’s vehicle experienced a mechanical malfunction. Due to the breakdown, the owner was forced to leave the car parked at a roadside location. According to the prosecution, Owusu took advantage of the situation and broke one of the vehicle’s windows to gain entry. Once inside, he proceeded to dismantle and remove the car's tape and other items. Owusu's criminal activity was interrupted when police officers on patrol discovered him inside the vehicle. Upon being confronted, he was found with the stolen items in his possession. During police interrogation, Owusu admitted to the crimes, leading to his arraignment before the district court. His guilty plea to all charges resulted in the 18-month custodial sentence, which the court imposed to address the unlawful damage and theft committed against the complainant.

Australian navy investigates discovery of hidden camera on HMAS Leeuwin
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Australian navy investigates discovery of hidden camera on HMAS Leeuwin

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has launched a high-level investigation following the discovery of a hidden video recording device on the Royal Australian Navy ship HMAS Leeuwin. The device was found in a cabin while the vessel was docked in Cairns, Queensland. This security breach has sparked significant concern within the military hierarchy, as officials work to determine the origin of the device and the extent of any potential surveillance. The revelation follows serious allegations brought forward by Senator Jacqui Lambie, who recently raised alarms regarding the presence of concealed cameras in private areas, specifically female sailors' showers. While the ADF confirmed the discovery of a recording device, it has not yet publicly specified the exact location of the find or confirmed if it was linked to the shower areas mentioned by the Senator. The investigation aims to uncover how the equipment was installed and whether any footage was successfully captured or transmitted. The Australian Department of Defence has emphasized that it is treating the incident with the utmost seriousness, stating that such breaches of privacy are entirely unacceptable. In response to the discovery, the department is providing professional support to the ship's crew members, particularly those directly affected by the potential privacy violation. Official statements indicate that protecting the privacy and welfare of personnel remains the priority as the inquiry proceeds. As the HMAS Leeuwin remains under scrutiny, the incident has reignited debates regarding the safety and privacy of female personnel within the Australian military. The ADF's findings are expected to have broader implications for security protocols across the fleet. For now, the investigation continues, with military police and security experts examining the recovered hardware for digital signatures that could identify the perpetrator.

Gardaí probe discovery of man's body along River Blackwater
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Gardaí probe discovery of man's body along River Blackwater

The Irish police, known as the Gardaí, have launched a formal investigation following the discovery of a man's body in the Ballyellis area of Mallow, County Cork. The discovery was made by walkers along the banks of the River Blackwater at approximately 1:30 PM local time. According to preliminary reports, the body was found to have visible injuries, which prompted an immediate and significant response from local law enforcement to determine the nature of the incident. Following the discovery, Gardaí secured the location and preserved the scene for an intensive forensic examination. Specialists were brought in to conduct a thorough sweep of the area along the river to collect potential evidence. To manage the ongoing inquiry, an incident room has been officially established at the Mallow Garda Station. This centralized hub will allow investigators to process witness statements, forensic data, and other leads as they emerge in the early stages of the probe. The identity of the deceased man has not yet been established. To assist with the identification process and to determine the exact cause of death, a post-mortem examination has been scheduled. The results of this medical assessment will be pivotal in deciding the future direction of the investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information or who may have been in the vicinity of the River Blackwater in Mallow recently to come forward and assist with the ongoing search for answers.

Sir Sam Jonah labels galamsey as a moral and public health crisis
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Sir Sam Jonah labels galamsey as a moral and public health crisis

Renowned business leader Sir Sam Jonah has issued a stern warning regarding the escalating threat of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, in Ghana. Speaking at the 25th-anniversary conference of Methodist University Ghana in Accra on October 15, 2026, Sir Sam characterized the situation as far more than just an environmental challenge. He described the ongoing destruction as a multi-dimensional crisis involving economic, public health, and moral failures that threaten the very foundation of the nation’s future. During his keynote address, Sir Sam painted a vivid and grim picture of the degradation caused by unregulated mining activities. He remarked that major rivers across the country, which once served as vital sources of water for millions, now "run like chocolate milk" due to the heavy siltation and chemical pollution associated with galamsey. This environmental catastrophe extends beyond the water bodies to the country’s fertile farmlands and protected forest reserves, which are being systematically decimated by careless mining practices. Beyond the physical destruction, Sir Sam emphasized the urgent need for structural reforms and enhanced accountability in the management of Ghana’s natural resources. He linked the persistence of illegal mining to broader issues of governance, stating that the depletion of public funds and the misuse of resources are symptomatic of a deeper lack of oversight. By framing galamsey as a moral and public health crisis, he underscored the immediate risks to human lives, including the contamination of the food chain and the long-term loss of sustainable livelihoods for rural communities. In conclusion, the veteran businessman called for a more robust approach to environmental protection and the enforcement of mining laws. He urged stakeholders and the government to prioritize the preservation of the nation’s heritage over short-term financial gains. His address at Methodist University serves as a significant addition to the national discourse on galamsey, highlighting that without immediate and transparent intervention, the social and economic costs of this environmental crisis will continue to mount for future generations of Ghanaians.

Houthi missile strike on Aden palace kills two security personnel
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Houthi missile strike on Aden palace kills two security personnel

Houthi rebels launched a missile strike against the presidential palace in Aden, Yemen, resulting in the deaths of two security personnel. The attack targeted the seat of government while the Yemeni Prime Minister and several cabinet ministers were in residence. While the high-ranking officials escaped without injury, the strike left several other individuals wounded as emergency responders arrived at the scene to provide medical assistance and secure the area. Houthi-controlled media platforms quickly claimed responsibility for the assault, describing the presidential palace as a legitimate military target. According to their reports, the missiles were aimed at military operation headquarters and weapon depots located within the palace perimeters. However, reports from the ground focused on the loss of life among the security detail tasked with protecting the government facility, highlighting the direct threat to the administration's stability in the temporary capital of Aden. This escalation follows a pattern of retaliatory strikes by Houthi forces against both Yemeni government installations and Saudi Arabian infrastructure. The conflict remains a central focus for the Saudi Arabia-led coalition, which has been providing essential military support to the Yemeni government. Tensions had already spiked recently following a missile strike on Riyadh’s international airport that killed 13 people, prompting fears of further cross-border and domestic violence as both sides continue to engage in high-stakes military maneuvers.

Atta Kwadwo sentenced to 14 years for defiling eight-year-old girl
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Atta Kwadwo sentenced to 14 years for defiling eight-year-old girl

The Bekwai Circuit Court has sentenced Atta Kwadwo, a 30-year-old mine worker, to 14 years in prison for the defilement of an eight-year-old girl. The conviction follows a trial presided over by His Honour Isaac Appiatu, which concluded that the prosecution had proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt. The court determined that the severity of the offense warranted a custodial sentence in line with the provisions of the Criminal Code. The incident occurred on July 10, 2026, in Manso Kumpese, a community within the Ashanti Region. According to the facts presented during the trial, the victim's mother discovered the assault and immediately raised an alarm, which led to Kwadwo's arrest by local authorities. A subsequent medical examination conducted on the young girl provided critical evidence for the prosecution, as the medical report confirmed physical injuries and trauma consistent with the sexual assault. Despite the evidence, Kwadwo maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings and denied the charges brought against him. However, the court found his defense unconvincing in the face of the testimony and medical documentation presented. In delivering the sentence, the judge emphasized the need to protect minors and the legal consequences of such acts under the Criminal Offences Act. Kwadwo has now begun his 14-year term, marking the conclusion of a case that has drawn significant attention within the Amansie South District.

Pope Leo XIV undergoes surgery for lung cancer in Rome
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Pope Leo XIV undergoes surgery for lung cancer in Rome

Pope Leo XIV is currently recovering in a Roman hospital after undergoing surgery on Tuesday to remove part of his lung as treatment for cancer. The 71-year-old pontiff is reported to be in stable condition following the procedure, with the Vatican providing positive updates on his initial recovery. While his condition remains steady, medical teams are awaiting further test results to determine the full status of the cancer and the next steps for his treatment. The health event is expected to significantly alter the Pope's papacy, which has been characterized by frank and open discussions on global issues. Experts and Vatican observers suggest that the surgery will likely lead to a major shift in the pontiff's priorities and a more cautious approach to his office. Although there is hope that he will return to his duties with his usual energy, the physical demands of recovering from lung surgery at his age may necessitate a reduction in his public workload. A significant change in the Pope's schedule is anticipated, with fewer public engagements and a potential scaling back of international travel. This critical health milestone has placed his future commitments under closer scrutiny as the Vatican reassesses his upcoming calendar. The transition toward a more managed schedule reflects the practical realities of his recovery process and the need to balance his leadership duties with ongoing medical considerations. As the global Catholic community awaits further diagnostic updates, the focus remains on the Pope's immediate recuperation. The outcome of pending tests will be instrumental in determining the long-term impact on his administration and how he will navigate his role in the coming years. For now, the papacy enters a period of adjustment as the leader of the Church focuses on his physical health and recovery.

Joshua Kojo Anane Boateng arrested for alleged sexual exploitation
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Joshua Kojo Anane Boateng arrested for alleged sexual exploitation

The Cyber Crime Unit of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has arrested Joshua Kojo Anane Boateng, a well-known entrepreneur and social media personality based in East Legon. Boateng, who is widely recognized by his digital moniker "SoAfrican," was taken into custody on May 6, 2026. The arrest was the result of a coordinated operation between the CID’s specialized cyber team and the Bureau of National Investigations, marking a significant move by security agencies against digital misconduct. Boateng currently faces serious allegations involving the sharing of intimate images without consent and engaging in online sexual exploitation. The investigation into his activities follows a period of surveillance and collaboration between the security services aimed at curbing cyber-related offenses. The charges against him reflect growing concerns over digital privacy and the misuse of social media platforms for the exploitation of individuals. Officials have noted that the collaboration between the Cyber Crime Unit and the Bureau of National Investigations was essential in securing the suspect. As a prominent figure in the Ghanaian social media space, the arrest of "SoAfrican" has drawn substantial public attention and debate. Security officials have indicated that the crackdown on such activities is part of a broader effort to enforce cyber laws and protect citizens from online harassment and the non-consensual distribution of private material. Boateng remains in custody as authorities continue their inquiries, with formal legal proceedings expected to commence shortly. This case serves as a stern reminder of the legal consequences associated with the violation of digital privacy laws in Ghana.

Some of the items retrieved from the suspects
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Police arrest 16 suspects at Gbane mining site in Talensi

The Upper East Regional Police Command has conducted a successful security operation at the Gbane mining site in the Talensi District, leading to the arrest of 16 suspects. The operation was part of a broader effort to clamp down on criminal activities and reduce growing tensions within the local mining community. During the raid, police officers recovered several firearms, rounds of ammunition, and various quantities of narcotics, signaling a significant blow to illegal actors in the area. The Gbane mining enclave has recently been characterized by instability and reports of armed groups operating within its vicinity. Multiple police units were deployed simultaneously to ensure the operation's effectiveness and to minimize the risk of armed resistance. Security officials indicated that the presence of these suspects had contributed to a climate of fear among legitimate workers and residents, making the intervention a priority for the regional command. Evidence gathered at the scene included various illicit items that suggest organized criminal involvement beyond simple illegal mining. The recovery of narcotics alongside firearms points to a multi-layered security challenge that the police are now working to dismantle. The arrested individuals are currently being processed as investigators look into their potential involvement in recent disturbances that have plagued the Talensi area. The 16 individuals remain in custody as the police finalize their charges and conduct further interrogations to trace the origin of the weapons seized. The Upper East Regional Police Command has assured the public that it will maintain a heightened presence in the mining districts to prevent a resurgence of lawlessness. Residents are encouraged to provide timely information to the authorities to help sustain the current peace and allow for safe industrial and community activities in the Gbane enclave.