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.

news|

Bernard Antwi-Boasiako to receive bail ruling on November 4

The High Court in Accra has scheduled November 4, 2026, to deliver its ruling on a bail application filed by Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, the former Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Antwi-Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, is seeking release pending the appeal of his 20-year prison sentence related to illegal mining activities in the Samreboi case. Appearing before Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay on October 15, lead counsel for the applicant, Samuel Atta Akyea, argued that his client should be granted bail to properly prepare for his appeal. Mr. Atta Akyea emphasized that there are significant legal issues to be addressed in the challenge against the conviction and that Antwi-Boasiako’s physical presence outside of prison is necessary for an effective defense strategy. However, the application faced stiff opposition from the state. Deputy Attorney-General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai contended that the applicant had not met the high legal threshold of demonstrating "exceptional circumstances" required for bail after a conviction. Dr. Srem-Sai further argued that Antwi-Boasiako constitutes a flight risk, citing reports of alleged attempts to evade arrest and noting that he faces other pending criminal charges that make his continued detention necessary. Justice Kocuvie-Tay noted the complexity of the arguments and the ongoing appeal process before adjourning the matter for a comprehensive examination of the circumstances. The upcoming ruling will determine whether the former political executive will be allowed temporary freedom or must remain in custody as the judicial system reviews his 20-year jail term for his involvement in illegal mining.

Police arrest eight over illegal drug sales at Okaishie Drug Lane in Accra
news|

Ghana Police Service arrest eight suspects in Okaishie Drug Lane raid

The Ghana Police Service has arrested eight individuals following an intelligence-led operation at Okaishie Drug Lane in Accra. The exercise, conducted on Friday, October 9, 2026, targeted the illegal sale and distribution of narcotic substances and unregulated pharmaceutical products. This operation forms part of a broader national effort to clamp down on the illicit drug trade and protect public health and safety within the capital. The arrested suspects, whose ages range from 23 to 64, were found in possession of various controlled substances and restricted medications. During the raid, police officers seized a significant quantity of suspected narcotics, including Tramadol, Rohypnol, and several codeine-based products. These substances are frequently abused or sold without the necessary legal permits and oversight, posing a severe risk to the health of consumers and the general public. Authorities stated that the operation was the result of extensive surveillance and intelligence gathering focused on activities within the Okaishie business district, a known hub for pharmaceutical commerce. The eight suspects are currently in police custody and are assisting with ongoing investigations. The Ghana Police Service has reiterated its commitment to purging the market of unregulated drugs and ensuring that those who facilitate the illicit trade face the full rigour of the law. The raid at Okaishie Drug Lane highlights persistent concerns regarding the accessibility of potent prescription drugs on the open market. By targeting specific distribution hubs, the police aim to disrupt the supply chain of narcotics that contribute to substance abuse. Further legal proceedings are expected as the police work with relevant regulatory bodies to verify the source of the seized pharmaceuticals and identify any broader networks involved in the distribution chain.

Husband seen in viral video assaulting wife at Agona Nkwanta sentenced to 3 months in jail with hard labour
news|

Emmanuel Kwofie jailed for three months for assaulting wife

The Agona Nkwanta District Court has sentenced 30-year-old farmer Emmanuel Kwofie to three months of imprisonment with hard labor. The ruling follows Kwofie’s conviction for the physical assault of his wife, Diana Mensah, an incident that drew significant national attention. The convict pleaded guilty to the charges, admitting to the violent conduct which was documented in a video that subsequently went viral across social media platforms. The assault took place on October 8, after a domestic dispute escalated at the couple's home. According to court records, Kwofie accused his wife of infidelity, which served as the pretext for the severe beating. The recorded footage of the incident, which showed the victim being physically abused, sparked widespread public outrage and led to intense pressure on local authorities to take swift action against the perpetrator. Following a police investigation triggered by the viral footage, Kwofie was arrested on October 12. He was brought before the court on October 14, where the presiding judge, Mr. Kuma Selorm Dzata, handed down the custodial sentence. The case highlights the increasing role of digital documentation in bringing domestic violence cases to the forefront of the justice system, ensuring that such acts are prosecuted when evidence emerges in the public domain.

Kwame Nkrumah's son Gamal Nkrumah passes on in Egypt
news|

Gamal Gorkeh Nkrumah passes away at 68 after illness in Cairo

Gamal Gorkeh Nkrumah, the eldest son of Ghana’s founding president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, has passed away in Cairo, Egypt, at the age of 68. His death occurred on October 14, 2026, following a prolonged illness and a stroke that left him under medical supervision for some time. The Nkrumah family confirmed that he passed away peacefully while receiving care at a rehabilitation center in the Egyptian capital, where he had lived and worked for many decades. A distinguished intellectual and veteran journalist, Gamal was a prominent editor at the Al-Ahram Weekly newspaper in Cairo. He was widely recognized for his unwavering commitment to the ideals of Pan-Africanism, justice, and human dignity, principles that defined his father’s political legacy. Throughout his career, his writing and analysis focused on global politics, cultural issues, and the quest for African unity, making him a respected voice across the continent and within the Arab world. The family expressed deep sorrow at his passing, describing him as a source of inspiration who dedicated his life to intellectual and social progress. They extended their appreciation to the medical staff in Cairo who supported him during his illness and asked for privacy as they mourn his loss. In accordance with Islamic traditions, his burial is scheduled to take place on October 17. Gamal Gorkeh Nkrumah was the first child of the marriage between Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and Fathia Nkrumah. His passing represents the loss of a significant figure in the Nkrumah family and a bridge between Ghana and the wider African diaspora. Further details regarding memorial arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in due course.

news|

Queen Sonja removed from Norwegian Royal House list after King's death

Queen Sonja of Norway has been officially removed from the Royal House list and reclassified as a member of the broader royal family following the death of her husband, King Harald V. The 89-year-old former Queen Consort is no longer listed as a core member of the Royal House on the Norwegian court’s website. This administrative change marks a significant shift in the formal structure of the monarchy as the nation transitions to the reign of her son. Under the new classification, Sonja is now categorized within the "rest of the royal family" rather than the inner Royal House circle. A key consequence of this transition is that she will no longer hold the formal title of "Majesty." The Norwegian court has confirmed that the Royal House now consists exclusively of King Haakon VIII and his immediate family members, effectively narrowing the inner circle of the institution. The reorganization follows the passing of King Harald V in August, which initiated a period of change for the Nordic monarchy. While Queen Sonja remains a central figure in the royal lineage, her official status has been adjusted to reflect the current administrative reality under King Haakon VIII. This update provides clarity on the formal roles and titles within the royal household during this period of transition.

news|

Iranian armed forces claim responsibility for sea mine attack on supertanker

On October 13, the Iranian armed forces officially claimed responsibility for a sea mine attack on a supertanker navigating the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Iranian state media released video footage documenting the explosion, which occurred as part of a series of escalations against commercial shipping in the region. The incident has intensified concerns over the safety of one of the world's most critical maritime corridors for the global energy trade. The attack targeted a vessel traveling near the Omani coast, a path that Iranian authorities have recently characterized as illegal. Tehran has insisted that merchant ships should instead utilize shipping lanes along the Iranian coast, using military force to enforce its preference. Since the current conflict began at the end of February, Iran has frequently obstructed traffic through the strait through a combination of direct attacks and strategic threats, leading to a volatile environment for international commerce. In response to the heightened risk, the United States Navy has increased its operations in the area, providing escorts for merchant vessels to ensure the continuity of oil and natural gas shipments. The Strait of Hormuz has become a primary flashpoint in the ongoing war, with the U.S. military also conducting strikes against Iranian vessels in the past. As tensions remain high, international observers are monitoring the waterway closely for further disruptions that could impact global energy markets.

Cologne police seize robot for allegedly groping 16-year-old girl
news|

Cologne police seize robot for allegedly groping 16-year-old girl

German police in Cologne have confiscated a robot and launched an investigation into two teenagers after the machine allegedly made inappropriate physical contact with a 16-year-old girl. The incident occurred near a fast-food restaurant around midnight, leading to the seizure of the red and gold mechanical device which was later discovered by authorities in a vehicle belonging to one of the suspects. According to official reports, the robot approached the victim from behind and performed what police described as inappropriate thrusting motions. Authorities believe the teenagers may have been using a remote control to guide the robot's actions as part of a social media livestream. The investigation is currently focusing on whether the suspects intentionally manipulated the machine to harass the teenager for the purpose of generating online content. Following the incident, Cologne police issued a warning to the public against making potentially criminal comments on social media related to the case. While the use of robots in public spaces for entertainment or promotion is an increasing trend, this case highlights growing concerns regarding the misuse of remote-controlled technology for harassment. The confiscated robot remains in police custody as evidence as the criminal inquiry into the teenagers' conduct continues.

Two killed in Bonsa cemetery road accident
news|

Nissan Urvan bus crash at Bonsa cemetery kills two people

Two people were killed and ten others sustained injuries on October 12, 2026, following a collision between a Nissan Urvan bus and a trailer. The accident occurred on the Tarkwa-Takoradi highway, specifically in the vicinity of the Bonsa cemetery. The impact left the passenger bus significantly damaged, necessitating an immediate response from local emergency services and bystanders to assist the victims. Following the crash, the ten injured passengers were rescued from the wreckage and rushed to nearby hospitals for medical attention. The bodies of the two deceased individuals were retrieved from the scene and transferred to a local morgue for preservation and subsequent autopsy. Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims as they work to notify the affected families. In response to the incident, the regional Commander of the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) urged drivers to exercise greater caution and strictly adhere to safe driving practices. The Commander emphasized the importance of vigilance on major highways like the Tarkwa-Takoradi route to prevent similar tragedies. This accident highlights ongoing concerns regarding road safety and the need for motorists to comply with traffic regulations to ensure the safety of all road users.

Lydia Yaako Donkor warns athletes against sports human trafficking
news|

Lydia Yaako Donkor warns athletes against sports human trafficking

Lydia Yaako Donkor, the Director of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, has issued a stern warning to young Ghanaian athletes and their families regarding the rising threat of human trafficking within the sports industry. She revealed that criminal syndicates are increasingly targeting promising talent by offering fraudulent overseas opportunities, which often serve as a front for exploitation and illegal activities. The CID lead emphasized that these networks exploit the dreams of young people by promising them pathways to professional success that do not exist.\n\nThe CID Director explained that these criminal networks typically lure victims with the promise of lucrative football contracts or prestigious academic and athletic scholarships in foreign countries. Once the athletes or their families are hooked by these too-good-to-be-true offers, they find themselves ensnared in trafficking schemes. These false promises not only shatter the dreams of young sportspeople but also place them in significant physical and legal danger far from home. Victims are often left stranded in foreign jurisdictions without the support or resources they were promised.\n\nTo combat this trend, Donkor urged parents, coaches, and sports administrators to exercise extreme vigilance when approached with international sporting offers. She emphasized the necessity of conducting thorough background checks and verifying the authenticity of any contracts or scholarship letters through official channels and governing bodies. The police administration is calling for a collaborative effort among all stakeholders in the sports ecosystem to ensure that the aspirations of Ghana’s youth are not exploited by unscrupulous individuals who view young talent as a commodity.\n\nThis warning comes as part of a broader effort by the Ghana Police Service to address emerging forms of human trafficking that exploit the high ambitions of the nation’s youth. By raising public awareness and encouraging due diligence, the CID aims to disrupt the operations of these criminal syndicates before they can harm more individuals. Athletes and their guardians are strongly advised to consult with recognized sports authorities and legal professionals before committing to any international arrangements or signing any binding documents.

Abukari Alhassan Baba (left) receiving a citation from Abdul Mumin Ewuntomah (right), District Chief Executive for North East Gonja, at the awards
news|

Abdul Wahab Yumzaa Yakubu named Northern Regional Best Journalist

The Northern Regional branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has officially recognized Abdul Wahab Yumzaa Yakubu as the overall Best Journalist during a ceremony held in Tamale. Yakubu, who demonstrated exceptional performance across multiple beats, topped a list of ten media professionals honored for their outstanding contributions to journalism in the region during the 2025 awards cycle. The event served as a significant platform to celebrate the excellence of regional practitioners in various specialized fields. In addition to taking home the top prize, Yakubu was also recognized for his excellence in Education and Health reporting. The awards ceremony featured a diverse array of categories designed to acknowledge reporting that drives social change and community engagement. Among the other notable awardees was Abukari Alhassan Baba, who received the award for Best Reporter in Tourism and Culture. In total, ten journalists were celebrated for their work in sectors such as health, education, and culture, reflecting the significant impact of journalistic storytelling within the Northern Region. The event was held under the theme, "Empowering the Next Generation: The Role of the Media in Digital Skills, Innovation and Youth Opportunities." Keynote speakers at the ceremony emphasized the critical responsibility of the media in fostering community development and bridging the digital divide. They called for increased investment in youth development and skills enhancement, urging journalists to use their platforms to ensure young people can effectively access and compete within the global digital economy. The 2025 Northern Regional GJA Awards concluded with a call for the press to adapt to modern technological trends while maintaining high ethical standards. By spotlighting digital innovation and youth opportunities, the association aimed to inspire reporters to tackle regional challenges through innovative media solutions. The recognition of journalists like Yakubu underscores the continuing importance of rigorous, impactful reporting in promoting sustainable growth across the region.

Lands Commission launches online portal to conduct searches in 10 regions
news|

Lands Commission launches online portal to conduct searches in 10 regions

The Lands Commission of Ghana has officially launched an online portal across 10 regions, enabling prospective land buyers to conduct official searches and verify property details electronically. This initiative is designed to streamline the land acquisition process, reduce fraudulent transactions, and mitigate the persistent challenge of land litigation. Currently available in regions including Greater Accra and the newly created administrative areas, the digital service allows users to submit site plans and pay search fees via mobile money, with search reports delivered to applicants electronically. Acting Deputy Executive Secretary of the Commission, Raphael Hokey, emphasized that this digitization is a critical step in modernizing land administration and making records more accessible to the public. He noted that the move aims to facilitate easier land acquisition by allowing buyers to verify ownership before making any financial commitments. The portal is intended to provide a transparent alternative to the traditional, often cumbersome manual search processes that have historically been vulnerable to delays and manipulation. The Commission has also issued urgent guidelines for prospective buyers to navigate the complexities of Ghana's landownership system, particularly regarding customary and family lands. Hokey highlighted that poor record-keeping, unclear boundaries, and the lack of formal registration of allodial interests often lead to multiple claims over the same parcel. Buyers are strongly advised to perform thorough due diligence, which includes physical boundary inspections and formal verification of the seller’s legal authority, rather than relying solely on verbal assurances. To further combat intermediary fraud, the Lands Commission has established a dedicated complaints center for public inquiries and is encouraging direct dealings with its offices. The Commission is also advocating for customary landowners to document their interests and establish customary land secretariats to improve administrative clarity. These measures, combined with the new online portal, represent a comprehensive effort to strengthen land security and protect investors from the significant financial losses associated with disputed property titles.

SpaceX imposes 100 mph speed limits on Starlink usage in Ukraine
news|

SpaceX imposes 100 mph speed limits on Starlink usage in Ukraine

SpaceX has introduced a new speed restriction of 100 mph (160 km/h) on its Starlink satellite internet services used by the Ukrainian military. The sudden move, reported by Serhiy Beskrestnov, an adviser to President Volodymyr Zelensky, was implemented overnight without any prior notification to the Ukrainian government or military forces. These restrictions have immediately impacted critical frontline operations that rely on high-speed satellite data for real-time combat maneuvers. The implementation of these speed limits has reportedly crippled several aspects of Ukraine's defense strategy, particularly regarding drone operations. Military personnel use Starlink to guide unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and track targets with high precision. The new 100 mph limit makes it increasingly difficult to operate fast-moving equipment or maintain stable connections during high-velocity engagements, leading to less effective targeting and surveillance of Russian military assets. This disruption comes at a precarious time for Ukraine, as the country faces a renewed surge in Russian missile and drone attacks. Recent strikes have targeted major urban centers and critical infrastructure, leaving more than 600,000 people without electricity. The resulting power outages and casualties have put additional pressure on Ukrainian defense systems, which are now struggling to maintain situational awareness due to the unexpected connectivity hurdles. While Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence is currently probing the technical reasons and broader motivations behind the connection issues, SpaceX has not yet issued an official comment on the matter. The situation has raised significant alarms among military analysts about the reliability of private-sector technology in active war zones. As discussions regarding potential ceasefires and international military support continue, the vulnerability of Ukraine's data infrastructure remains a focal point for the Zelensky administration.