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Kingpins financing galamsey remain untouched – Vormawor

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KMA clinic, 9 others shut down by HeFRA

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The Health Facilities and Regulatory Agency (HeFRA) has shut down the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) Clinic and nine other health facilities for operating without a licence.

The move follows HeFRA’s ongoing enforcement exercise in the Ashanti Region to rid the region of unlicensed health facilities.

According to reports, the crackdown began on Monday, October 13, 2025, which has led to the closure of 18  health facilities across the region.

Meanwhile, Christabel Ayiram, the Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HEFRA), has announced that the agency will shut down over 200 unlicensed health facilities in the Ashanti Region.

According to Christabel Ayiram, HeFRA has begun a large-scale crackdown on unlicensed and non-compliant health facilities in the Ashanti Region.

Speaking to JoyNews, HeFRA’s Public Relations Officer, Christabel Ayiram, stated, “Both today and tomorrow, we are locking down facilities that are unlicensed. So any facility that is unlicensed by HEFRA, we are coming after you”.

“We are advising those who are unlicensed that they should come to the HEFRA office. We are at Adum, opposite Opoku Trading. And then there’s a team on standby. Once you meet all the requirements, they’ll do an inspection,” Ms Ayiram stated.

She added, “Because it’s a special exercise, we have a team on standby that will do the inspection for you. And once we do the inspection for you, and you meet our requirements, your facility will be open to the public. That is the only thing that will save anybody. Aside that, it is no license, no operations for our facility”.

According to her, there are over 200 unlicensed health facilities that will be closing down.

She warned, “For the Ashanti region, the facilities that are not licensed—there are more than 200. And we’ll close all of them down. All of them. We are not even sparing one. So once you are not licensed, we are coming after you. So just come and get your license with HEFRA”.

“Especially the dental facilities. Even though they don’t call themselves a clinic. Most of the people who practice in those facilities are not even like practitioners. I don’t even know how they… I think some of them claim they learnt on their job. Some of them claim their mothers taught them, their fathers taught them. And, I mean, these are people’s health. You don’t do that with people’s health”.

“So we are coming after all of them. So they should just come to HEFRA and do the right thing. We are regulators. We don’t take pleasure in locking down facilities. But where you are wrong, because it has to do with people’s health, we will take you on,” Ms Ayiram emphasised.

Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer of Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HeFRA), Dr Winfred Baah, has announced that the agency has shut down 17 health facilities across Ghana.

The 17 health facilities have been shut down for operating without valid licences or under unsafe conditions that pose risks to public health.

According to HeFRA, the move is part of a nationwide inspection intended to identify and sanction facilities operating without proper authorisation or documentation.

HeFRA highlighted that operating outside the regulatory framework endangers lives.

Speaking at a media briefing, Dr Winfred Baah stated, “Some of these facilities have been particularly defiant. They’ve ignored administrative fines and failed to renew their licences. Once a facility becomes unlicensed, we cannot vouch for the competence of its staff or the safety of the equipment being used”.

“When that happens, we must step in to protect the public. HeFRA is currently restructuring to strengthen our ability to regulate health facilities effectively,” he added.

Dr Winfred Baah added that the agency is committed to upholding quality healthcare standards. 

HeFRA urged all health facility operators to adhere strictly to licensing and operational requirements.

Mahama gov’t to roll out free primary healthcare, January 2026

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Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Minister of Health, has revealed that the NDC-led John Mahama government’s free primary healthcare initiative will be rolled out by January 2026.

The health minister emphasised that the free primary healthcare initiative is aimed at giving real meaning to preventive healthcare, enabling early detection and effective management of diseases.

According to Mintah Akandoh, the free primary healthcare is to remove cost barriers and improve access to healthcare.

Speaking at the 23rd Annual General and Scientific Conference of the Medical Superintendent’s Group in the Eastern Region on Tuesday, October 14, the Health Minister detailed, “As part of our journey towards universal health coverage, one of the major hindrances is cost.

Although we have the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), many Ghanaians — especially from certain parts of the country — are not subscribers. Currently, only about 56 per cent of the population is enrolled”.

“What the government is developing now is to ensure that at least primary healthcare is free across the country. This will allow us to strengthen preventive care so we can detect diseases early and manage them properly,” he added.

The Health Minister also announced that the government will be retooling healthcare facilities across the country.

In related health news, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has also revealed that the government will extend its subsidy of dialysis to private health facilities.

According to the Health Minister, the development comes after President John Mahama directed that the government’s dialysis subsidy be extended to private health facilities.

Speaking at the inauguration of a 13-member governing board for the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, also known as “Mahama Cares”, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh stated, “The current arrangement for payment of dialysis is that if you go to public health facilities, we have a maximum amount of money we pay per session—that’s around 499, something about 500 Ghana cedis.

What we have realised is that there are people who also go to private facilities, and so, it’s a necessity; the President has directed us to give what is paid to the public facilities,” he explained.

He further detailed, “So, for example, if you go to private facility A and they are charging you 1,000 Ghana cedis, the government will pay the 500 Ghana cedis, and you top up, to be fair to everybody. So, the CEO for the National Health Insurance has been directed accordingly to take up that challenge”.

“And finally, to also add my voice to the appeal the chairman made to corporate Ghana. We cannot do it all alone. It is the partnership between the government and corporate Ghana that will take us far. There are other corporate bodies who have come on board, like Telecel Group of Companies, and there are some banks as well,” he said.

In related health news, the Minister of Health has announced that unpaid junior doctors will be migrated to the public payroll.

He made this announcement, revealing that the government had secured clearance and commenced the migration of hundreds of unpaid junior doctors.

According to the Health Minister,  the Junior doctors started their work without clearance.

Speaking to the media in Accra on Monday, October 13, Mr Akandoh stated, “You recently heard some junior doctors threatening to go on strike. They had started work without clearance, without salaries, without pay”.

“Again, we collaborated with the Ministry of Finance, and as I speak to you now, we have succeeded in getting them clearance, and they are being migrated onto the payroll”, he added.

“However hard you try, one cannot produce a child in less than 9 months” – Asiedu Nketia to gov’t critics

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Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has responded to critics of the NDC government over yet-to-be-fulfilled promises.

According to Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, Work has started, but one cannot produce a child in less than 9 months, no matter how hard the person tries.

The NDC chairman argued that some of the issues being addressed have their own timeline for maturity.

Speaking during his Thank You Tour of the Volta Region, Asiedu Nketiah stated, “People have been blaming the government for our promise to control galamsey, which we have yet to deliver on. They are blaming the government for our promise to create jobs for all the youth. Work has started, but it hasn’t shown results yet”.

He added, “I just want to remind everybody that, however hard you try, you cannot produce a child in less than nine months. If you marry today and you say that people are teasing me,

I want to have a child, can you produce a child in less than nine months? When a woman becomes pregnant, no matter how hard you pray, no matter what work you do, it will still take nine months for a child to be born. So, some of the things have their own timeline for maturity.”

He further maintained that the results of the fight against galamsey will be evident in the state of water bodies and forest reserves and called on Ghanaians to exercise patience.

“If work has started on the control of galamsey, we don’t expect our rivers to be clean within that short time. If you stop the mining, it will take some time for the water bodies to be clean.

If you stop the mining in the forest reserve, it will take some time for us to reclaim the forest and plant new trees. So, I am happy about the progress being made, and I want all of you to commend the government for the work that has been done so far,” Asideu Nketia added.

Meanwhile, Nana Baffour Awuah, the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, has said the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is fixated on the figure 10 billion.

According to the Manhyia South MP, the NDC keeps repeating the $10 billion for all major projects.

Nana Baffour Awuah highlighted that the Lands minister, rather than being fixated on figures, should direct their attention toward ensuring responsible mining to maximise the country’s economic gains from the extractive sector.

Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show on Tuesday, October 14, Baffour Awuah stated, “To begin, how did they arrive at that figure? It appears that the NDC seems to be very fixated on the figure 10 billion”.

“Anytime they quote a figure for a project in this country, they are looking for 10 billion dollars — Hope City, 10 billion dollars; Big Push, 10 billion dollars; and now they want 10 billion dollars to fix galamsey.”

He explained, “I am of the view that all we need is to ensure that there is responsible mining and we are getting the economic benefit that we should get from mining”.

“The NDC clearly and obviously has been contradictory, has been inconsistent, and it was all aimed at getting political power. That is all that the picture seems now, and it is obvious,” he added.

His remarks come following Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, who has revealed the staggering potential financial scope of the anti-galamsey effort.

According to the Lands Minister, a comprehensive fight against illegal mining could cost the nation an estimated $10 billion.

The Lands minister is quoted by 3 news to have said, “The fight against galmsey could cost $10 billion”.

Watch the video below:

High Court yet to fix a date for Gifty Oware-Mensah’s case – Deputy Attorney General

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Deputy Attorney General Justice Srem-Sai has revealed the High Court is yet to fix a date for former NSS boss, Gifty Oware-Mensah, to appear before court.

Justice Srem-Sai made this known when he was spotted walking away from the High Court Complex.

The Attorney General, on October 13, 2025, accused the former Deputy Director-General of the National Service Authority, Gifty Oware-Mensah, of money laundering, stealing from the state amounting to GH¢38,458,248.87.

The Attorney-General’s Department alleged Gifty Oware-Mensah misappropriated a total of GH¢38,458,248.87 between February 2022 and March 2024, overseeing finance, audit, and procurement at the NSA.

According to prosecutors, she dishonestly transferred GH¢31.5 million from a loan facility meant to support National Service Personnel into her private company accounts.

The said money was under the pretext of supplying goods on a hire-purchase basis; however, investigation revealed no such goods were supplied, and the names used to secure the loan were ghost names from the NSA’s internal system.

Part of the document read, “… Between February 2022 and March 2024, the accused approached officials of the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) and informed them that the NSA had signed an agreement with her company, Blocks of Life Consult (BLC), to sell products on hire-purchase to National Service Personnel. She claimed that she required a loan of GH¢ 78, 139, 910.00 to support her business”.

“ADB told the accused that they could not approve the loan of GH¢78,139,910.00 as it would mean they would be deducting the full allowances of the supposed NSP. The accused later agreed with the bank on the Principal sum of GH¢31,502,091.40 and interest of GH¢ 6,956 157. Forty-seven to be paid through source deduction of the 9,934 NSP allowance over 11 months.

“… The account was designated as NSA HIRE PURCHASE and had the account number 1221MPL230610001. The loan amount of GH¢ 31,502,091.40 was disbursed into the NSA HIRE PURCHASE account, and on the accursed’s instructions to the bank, the loan amount was subsequently transferred into Block of Life Consult, her company’s account number 108101016216501.”

AG also alleged, “Out of the money received, the accused transferred GH¢22,925,518,69 to Amaecom Global Company of which she was a director, and the remaining amount to three other companies.”

Gifty Oware-Mensah’s charges include “Stealing GH¢31,502,091.40 belonging to the National Service Authority. Willfully causing financial loss to the state through the fake hire-purchase arrangement, Abuse of public office for personal gain and Money laundering through the transfer of funds into personal and affiliated accounts”.

Meanwhile, Ghanaians on the social media page X are mounting pressure on the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to suspend its Executive Council Member, Gifty Oware-Mensah, following the GH¢38.4m NSS allegation levelled against her.

Ghanaians have called on the GFA to strip her of her position as an Executive Council Member, arguing that the corruption charges she faces tarnish the image of the football association.

They called for the GFA to distance itself from the controversy.

Others have also hinted that if the GFA fails to act, they will submit a petition to the Fedéeation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).

Watch the video below:

3 Cameroonians, 3 Burkinabes ramanded over trafficking of 110 victims through Q-Net

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Six individuals have been remanded into custody by the Child-Friendly Gender Based Circuit Court.

The six include three Cameroonians and three Burkinabes.  

The case was presided over by Her Honour Dora Eshun.

The Cameroonians and Burkinabes were remanded for allegedly orchestrating the trafficking of 110 victims through an elaborate scam in the name of Q-Net

Their remands come after the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has rescued 110 victims of a suspected Qnet scam.

The Qnet scam operation was operating in Kuntunse Satellite in the Greater Accra Region.

The 110 victims include Cameroonian and Ivorian nationals, were reportedly lured into the country with promises of lucrative employment opportunities.

The victims have since been taken into protective custody as investigations continue to identify the perpetrators.

According to the Police, the suspects used Qnet as a cover to recruit and exploit unsuspecting individuals from other West African countries.

The Police CID further assured Ghanaians of their commitment to intensifying the fight against human trafficking and transnational scam operations.

Meanwhile, Renowned media personality Nathan Kwabena Anokye Adisi, popularly known as Bola Ray, has said QNET does not operate as a Ponzi or investment scheme.

Bola Ray has been officially unveiled as a QNET Agent and Spokesperson in Ghana.

According to Bola Ray, QNET is a global lifestyle and wellness-focused direct selling company which does not deal as a travel agency nor does it offer scholarships.

Speaking at the event, Bola Ray stated, “I stand before you today, with immense excitement as I officially join the QNet family. This moment is not just a professional milestone for me; it is a dream come true and also a commitment to contribute to a reputable organisation.

Qnet is a global wellness and lifestyle company focused on direct selling, and they are there for the people”.

He further added, “We operate transparently and ethically, as you heard the deputy chairman say. Like many multinational companies, we face some challenges from scammers who misuse our name and brand for their fraudulent activities.

I have heard and read many posts with people offering fake jobs, scholarships, travel services and a whole lot more, but let me be clear”,

Bola Ray boldly declared, “Q-Net is neither a travel agency nor does it offer scholarships or operate as a Ponzi or investment scheme”.

“We are committed to building a future where direct selling is respected and ethical. My friends in the media, it is essential that we help the public verify claims before associating them with our name,” he added.

Watch the video below:

“We are struggling to deliver ORAL, but will not yield on our promise” – Asiedu Nketia

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Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has admitted the government is struggling to deliver on its Operation Recover All Loots (ORAL).

Asiedu Nketia, however, highlighted that the government are not yielding to our promise of recovering all loot, and work has started seriously.

It will be recalled that on February 10, 2025, the ORAL team submitted their final report to President John Mahama, who has since directed the Attorney General for further actions.

The chairman of Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) and Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa revealed that with just 36 cases, Ghana can potentially recover $ 20.49 billion in stolen state resources.

Speaking during his Thank You Tour of the Volta Region, Asiedu Nketia explained, “Another difficult promise that we are struggling to deliver is the Operation Recover All Loots. We all know how much the NPP government in eight years had stolen from the National coffers, and we have promised to recover all the money that has been stolen.

We are not yielding, and work has started seriously to ensure that these monies are recovered and they are put to good use.

 Also, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah has responded to critics of the NDC government over yet-to-be-fulfilled promises.

According to Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, Work has started, but one cannot produce a child in less than 9 months, no matter how hard the person tries.

The NDC chairman argued that some of the issues being addressed have their own timeline for maturity.

Asiedu Nketiah stated, “People have been blaming the government for our promise to control galamsey, which we have yet to deliver on. They are blaming the government for our promise to create jobs for all the youth. Work has started, but it hasn’t shown results yet”.

He added, “I just want to remind everybody that, however hard you try, you cannot produce a child in less than nine months. If you marry today and you say that people are teasing me,

I want to have a child, can you produce a child in less than nine months? When a woman becomes pregnant, no matter how hard you pray, no matter what work you do, it will still take nine months for a child to be born. So, some of the things have their own timeline for maturity.”

He further maintained that the results of the fight against galamsey will be evident in the state of water bodies and forest reserves and called on Ghanaians to exercise patience.

“If work has started on the control of galamsey, we don’t expect our rivers to be clean within that short time. If you stop the mining, it will take some time for the water bodies to be clean.

If you stop the mining in the forest reserve, it will take some time for us to reclaim the forest and plant new trees. So, I am happy about the progress being made, and I want all of you to commend the government for the work that has been done so far,” Asideu Nketia added.

Watch the video below:

Democracy Hub files write at SC over Mahama gov’t U.S. deportees deal

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Democracy Hub has filed a writ at the Supreme Court over the John Mahama government’s secret deal to accept U.S. deportees.

The group are challenging the legality of a secret Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the government of Ghana and the United States.

The Democracy Hub argues that the MOU between the U.S and Ghana is unconstitutional and violates international human rights obligations.

The Apex court has set Wednesday, October 22, 2025, for the hearing of an interlocutory injunction.

Democracy Hub, in a statement, highlighted, the arrangement was entered into “secretly” without parliamentary approval, contrary to Article 75(2) of the 1992 Constitution.

“No government has the authority to secretly contract Ghana out of its constitutional and human rights obligations,” the group stated.

“The Constitution requires transparency, parliamentary oversight, and respect for human dignity in all matters of international cooperation.”

The group also noted that the MOU violates key international agreements such as the 1951 Refugee Convention, the Convention Against Torture, and the OAU Refugee Convention.

Citing those Conventionbar countries from returning individuals to places where they face persecution or torture, a principle known as non-refoulement.

The writ also detailed the use of military detention at Bundase Military Training Camp as a breach of fundamental rights under Articles 14, 15, and 19 of the Constitution.

It will be recalled that President John Mahama, speaking to the media some weeks ago, revealed that some 14 US deportees arrived in Ghana, with several of them being Nigerians and a Gambian.

He cited the regional bloc Ecowas’s free movement protocol that allows citizens of member states to enter other West African countries without a visa for up to 90 days.

John Mahama further revealed that Ghana had already facilitated the return of the Nigerians to their country, while the Gambians were still being assisted. He stated, “We were approached by the US to accept third-party nationals who were being removed from the US. And we agreed with them that West African nationals were acceptable”.

“The government of Ghana took the principled and humanitarian decision to accept the limited number of West African nationals deported from the United States under exceptional circumstances, in line with Ghana’s long-standing Pan-African ideals and unwavering commitment to regional solidarity,” President Mahama stated.

He added, “Our decision is grounded purely on humanitarian principles and Pan-African solidarity to offer temporary refuge where needed, to prevent further human suffering, and to maintain our credibility as a responsible regional actor. Ghana’s decision must be understood as an act of Pan-African empathy. It is not transactional like Rwanda, Eswatini, Uganda, or South Sudan”.

Mahama, however, clarified that the arrangement should not be seen as an endorsement of President Donald Trump’s new U.S. immigration policies.

Meanwhile, the Minority caucus has urged the government to suspend the deal, arguing that it violates Article 75 of the Constitution.

They highlighted that the provision requires that every treaty, agreement, or convention signed by or under the authority of the President must be laid before Parliament for ratification.

Below is the writ;

Final Supreme Court Writ-Filed.docx[1]Download

“I want my wives to fight during my burial” – Prophet Ajagurajah

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Prophet Ajagurajah has weighed in on the dispute surrounding the burial of Highlife legend Daddy Lumba.

According to Prophet Ajagurajah, he also wants his wives to fight over him during his burial.

Prophet Ajagurajah expressed happiness that Daddy Lumba’s two wives, Akosua Serwah, Odo Broni, and the family are ‘fighting’ over the announced burial date and other issues.

Speaking on OKAY FM on October 13, 2025, Prophet Ajagurajah stated, “What Lumba’s wives are doing is very nice. Haven’t you seen that Lumba’s name is always in the news? That is how I want mine to be”.

“That is the same way I want my wives to fight during my burial. Through that, my name would always be in the news. By now the ghosts are prasining him because women are fighting over him.”

He further added, “If you ask me, I would say the younger wife would win the case. The one who was closer to him knows his secret. Moreover, he introduced her to a lot of people, so most of the prominent people know her”.

Also, Sheila Acheampong, commonly known as Xhelia, a Ghanaian Musician and daughter of the Highlife legend Nana Acheampong, has weighed in on the brouhaha surrounding Daddy Lumba’s final funeral rites.

According to Xhelia, her dad, Nana Acheampong, will take lessons from the ongoing legal battles over Daddy Lumba’s final funeral rights.

She explained that, having watched the legal dispute, she has resolved to be financially independent and not be entirely dependent on inherited assets.

Speaking on Okay FM, Xhelia stated, “The mistakes of the dead are a lesson to the living, and I know my father is a wise and knowledgeable man; he will take a clue from this”.

“I will try to be independent, so when the unexpected comes, I will not be too dependent on his properties … I can fend for myself. … If anything happens and someone takes all for himself or herself … I have my own,” she said.

Their comments come following Akosua Serwaa Fosuh, the wife of the late Daddy Lumba, seeking a court injunction to halt the funeral, demanding recognition as the sole legal widow and the right to perform traditional rites.

According to court documents, her legal team is contesting the legitimacy of the arrangements, arguing that they were made without her knowledge, consent, or involvement.

“PRAYING this Honourable Court for an Order restraining the Defendants, their agents, assigns, workmen, etc., from either collecting the body of the late CHARLES KWADWO FOSU a.k.a. DADDY LUMBA from the morgue and performing the burial and final funeral rites of the deceased, upon the grounds set out in the accompanying Affidavit,” the writ stated.

However, the Lawyers for the Fosu Royal Family of Parkoso and Nsuta have told Akosua Serwah that Daddy Lumba’s family only recognises Priscilla Ofori, also known as Odo Broni, as the wife of the musician.

According to the lawyers, Akosua Serwaa refused to relocate to Ghana some 15 years with Daddy Lumba for medical treatment.

The Lawyers further revealed that Akosua Serwaa wrote to Daddy Lumba of her intentions to initiate a divorce, and even presented Lumba’s drinks to his family, signifying the dissolution of their marriage.

Watch the video below:

“NDC very fixated on $10 billion” – MP ‘fights’ Lands Minister

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Nana Baffour Awuah, the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, has said the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is fixated on the figure $10 billion.

According to the Manhyia South MP, the NDC keeps repeating the $10 billion for all major projects.

Nana Baffour Awuah highlighted that the Lands minister, rather than being fixated on figures, should direct their attention toward ensuring responsible mining to maximise the country’s economic gains from the extractive sector.

Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show on Tuesday, October 14, Baffour Awuah stated, “To begin, how did they arrive at that figure? It appears that the NDC seems to be very fixated on the figure 10 billion”.

“Anytime they quote a figure for a project in this country, they are looking for 10 billion dollars — Hope City, 10 billion dollars; Big Push, 10 billion dollars; and now they want 10 billion dollars to fix galamsey.”

He explained, “I am of the view that all we need is to ensure that there is responsible mining and we are getting the economic benefit that we should get from mining”.

“The NDC clearly and obviously has been contradictory, has been inconsistent, and it was all aimed at getting political power. That is all that the picture seems now, and it is obvious,” he added.

His remarks come following Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, who has revealed the staggering potential financial scope of the anti-galamsey effort.

According to the Lands Minister, a comprehensive fight against illegal mining could cost the nation an estimated $10 billion.

The Lands minister is quoted by 3 news to have said, “The fight against galmsey could cost $10 billion”.

Some Ghanaians have reacted to the minister’s comments, saying, “That figure alone shows just how destructive galamsey has been,  not only to our environment but to our economy. If we’d invested that $10 billion in industries, education, or agriculture instead, imagine where Ghana would be today. The fight must continue, but accountability and prevention must go hand in hand”.

Another netizen added, “OUR LIVES ARE WORTH MUCH MORE!  WE SHOULD SPARE NO EFFORT.  But also mobilise the community and they lead the fight against irresponsible small-scale mining”.

“10 billion what? How much is our entire budget? This is thievery”, a netizen added.

One more netizen added, “Like how? I don’t understand. Cancelling illegal mining and deploying already paid soldiers to the forest will cost what again? They have started”

“Oyiwa! Meanwhile, Galamsey is more intense than it was in 2024, mainly because the government is buying all gold from Galamsey for exports.

The government is enabling Galamsey once they continue to buy gold from them. There’s no traceability in place for GOLDBOD purchases”, a Ghanaian stated.

Additionally, a netizen added, “More reason it makes no sense to focus on the livelihood of these criminals when discussing galamsey. Do you know how many legal jobs that money can create? It is infuriating when we use livelihood to defend why we are not treating these people as criminals, as they are”.

“Pressure on Category A schools too high; SHSs to be reclassified” – Haruna Iddrisu

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The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has revealed plans by the government to reclassify some SHSs to ease pressure on category A schools.

He revealed that the proposal will see 10 Category A schools downgraded to Category B and another 10 Category B schools upgraded to Category A.

Speaking at a press briefing at the Ministry on Tuesday, October 14, Haruna Iddrisu explained, “We have close to 393,000 students competing for only 76,000 spaces. The pressure on Category A schools is too high, and this makes placement less fair and transparent”.

The Education Minister added that reclassification will help distribute students more evenly and make the placement system more efficient.

He cited regional inequalities in the distribution of top-tier schools

“Regions like North East, Savannah, Oti, and Western North have no Category A schools. We intend to deliberately prioritise these areas with infrastructure investments to improve access to quality education,” he explained.

He also revealed that more than three people have been arrested for spreading false bribery claims in the school placement exercise.

The Education Minister added, “You know I’m not the police, so it’s the police who will give you that information. But what I can assure you is that they are even more than three. We have a very robust cybersecurity system, which is able to monitor and police fraudulent activities associated with the placement”.

“A few weeks back, we got national security to arrest three. They were interrogated. You recall when I said that, why would somebody with an aggregate of 37 be posted into a Category A school? That emanated from the earlier arrest,” he said.

“We’ve limited access to the portal, and it’s part of our management of it. Sitting here as a minister, I don’t have access to the portal. The deputy does not have access. The chief has no access. The director of GES does not have access. We’ve adopted this strategy so that we can hold each individual accountable,” he added.

“Those who expect that I would have done some magic this year, I’m sorry to disappoint you. I will work to fix it as a problem in the future,” he assured.

Meanwhile, Dr Belinda Glover, the National Coordinator of the Free SHS Secretariat, has announced that two individuals have been apprehended for reportedly offering bribes and attempting to influence the placement of their children in schools.

She warned that anyone attempting to tamper with the placement system will be identified and turned over to the authorities.

Speaking to the media, Dr Belinda Glover stated, “We have been able to arrest some of them, in fact, they come with multiple sheets, trying to do changes either day to boarding. Sometimes change in the program.  

We have been able to track down those people, and have some of them to the police to deal with them”.

She added, “You can come here with more than two sheets; anything beyond that means you are here to do business with us, and we are not going to allow that. So far we have handed two people over to the Police”.

“Some of them come here with five or more placement sheets. Beyond 2, you are in for business because you can’t tell me you have five children all entering senior high school at the same time. Even with that, we followed up on some of these cases and found that they collect money from people and come here pretending to be parents. Once we detect that, we involve the police”, she added.

Also, Kofi Asare, the Executive Director of Africa Education Watch, has said the confusion over the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) is because parents want top schools for their children.

According to Kofi Asare, there is enough space to accommodate all qualified candidates, but parents and their children are chasing top schools.

SHOCK – Egypt’s Mohammed Salah’s photo appears in Cameroon voter register

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Egypt and Liverpool winger Mohammed Salah’s photo has shockingly appeared in the Cameroon voter register.

Reports suggest Mohammed Salah’s photo appears in the Cameroon voter register at the Ngaoundere III polling station.

The news was further verified on the official website of ELECAM, Cameroon’s electoral management body.

The name used, along with Mohammed Salah’s picture, matches the first letters of the “AZERTY” keyboard.

The incident has sparked widespread social media commentary, with some users reacting humorously while others have raised concerns about electoral fraud and the reliability of the voter register.

ELECAM has not yet issued an official statement on the matter, as vote counting continues for the election in which 12 candidates are challenging the incumbent president.

Several media outlets that fact-checked the development confirmed that the Liverpool striker’s image is indeed listed as a voter in the polling station.

Meanwhile, incumbent Paul Biya won the last presidential election in October 2018, winning with 71% of the vote amid allegations of fraud and protests.

Cameroon began counting votes after a presidential election on Sunday.

Paul Biya, the world’s oldest ruler at 92, is expected to extend his 43-year grip on power despite an energised opposition pushing for change.

Over 8 million Cameroonians registered to vote Per the country’s constitution, the electoral commission is expected to announce provisional results within 15 days.

“Nothing is given. Let’s wait and see. Let’s wait for the name of the winner,” Biya told journalists after voting.

Francois Conradie, lead political economist at Oxford Economics, stated, “A surprise is still possible, but a divided opposition and the backing of a formidable electoral machine will, we predict, give the 92-year-old his eighth term”.

“Although we think he isn’t very aware of what is going on, it seems that the machine he built will divide to rule one last time, “Conradie added in a note.

“I want to see change, improvement, maybe a new face. I’m 43 years old. I’ve never known another president,” said Magdalene Tientcheu, who lives in Douala, Cameroon’s business hub. “I hope for that. I voted for a new face”.

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Two arrested for reportedly offering bribes to influence SHS placement

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Dr Belinda Glover, the National Coordinator of the Free SHS Secretariat, has announced that two individuals have been apprehended for reportedly offering bribes and attempting to influence the placement of their children in schools.

She warned that anyone attempting to tamper with the placement system will be identified and turned over to the authorities.

Speaking to the media, Dr Belinda Glover stated, “We have been able to arrest some of them, in fact, they come with multiple sheets, trying to do changes either day to boarding. Sometimes change in the program.  

We have been able to track down those people, and have some of them to the police to deal with them”.

She added, “You can come here with more than two sheets; anything beyond that means you are here to do business with us, and we are not going to allow that. So far we have handed two people over to the Police”.

“Some of them come here with five or more placement sheets. Beyond 2, you are in for business because you can’t tell me you have five children all entering senior high school at the same time. Even with that, we followed up on some of these cases and found that they collect money from people and come here pretending to be parents. Once we detect that, we involve the police”, she added.

Meanwhile, Charles Aheto-Tsegah, a former Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES), has said the persistent national crisis surrounding the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) is due to a small elephant called protocol.

According to Charles Aheto-Tsegah, protocols have deeply undermined the supposedly merit-based electronic placement system.

The former GES boss emphasised that the system’s architects failed to account for deeply fixed patronage within the education system.

Charles Aheto-Tsegah noted that the protocols have increased in scope and impact.

He cited that previous years’ SHS data placement shows discrepancies between the number of available slots and the final admitted students.

Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday, September 27, 2025. Mr Aheto-Tsegah stated, “The protocol has actually been expanding, and that is what we have to deal with. If we want to be very fair and equitable, we need to kill that small elephant in the room called protocol”.

“We didn’t even know how to manage protocol in the system, even though we knew that it was an ever-present issue in that process, so we could manage it, and we have lived with that system right from the beginning,” he stated.

The former GES boss noted that due to the foundational flaw, the CSSPS have been dead on arrival.

Also, Kofi Asare, the Executive Director of Africa Education Watch, has said the confusion over the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) is because parents want top schools for their children

According to Kofi Asare, there is enough space to accommodate all qualified candidates, but parents and their children are chasing top schools.

Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday, September 27, 2025, Kofi Asare stated, “The problems are not entirely new, apart from one which is new, a problem that was resolved in the past, I don’t know how it resurfaced this year. But generally, the issues relating to parents’ resentment of schools that the computer placed them in are normal, and they are going to be with us so long as we have inadequate resources as a lower-middle-income country”.

“The government of Ghana has adequate spaces to accommodate all 590k or so candidates who have qualified for placement. What the Government of Ghana does not have is the taste of all the 590k students. So there will definitely be some dis-equilibrium between the expectation of candidates, parents on one side and government’s ability to provide education to their taste,” he stressed.

Kofi Asare further explained, “Everybody wants to attend a good Category A and Category B school. You have about 700 plus Senior High Schools, and then you have people chasing about 100 schools. So these issues will continue to emerge so far as there are resource deficits”.

Watch the video below:

6,200 teachers to be absorbed, following Cabinet approval  – Education Minister

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Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister of Education, has announced that the Cabinet has approved the absorption of 6,200 teachers working for over eight months without pay.

According to Haruna Iddrisu, the decision comes following the affected teachers who petitioned his ministry over their pay.

Speaking at a press briefing at the Ministry, Haruna Iddrisu stated, “A few weeks ago, myself and the Chief Director received a petition from some teachers who were unhappy with the government over their unending work for a number of months without their pay,” he said. “I’m happy to announce that the Cabinet has given approval for the 6,200 teachers to be absorbed. We’ll begin the process in due course.”

He further disclosed that the Ministry of Finance has been authorised to allocate about GH¢1.1 billion to cover payments for both health workers and teachers.

“Cabinet gave the Minister of Finance approval to vire about GH¢1.1 billion to absorb a category of health workers and teachers. The process will start soon, so there’s no need for further picketing.”

Also, Haruna Iddrisu hinted that the government will reclassify some SHSs to ease pressure on category A schools.

He revealed that the proposal will see 10 Category A schools downgraded to Category B and another 10 Category B schools upgraded to Category A.

He added, “We have close to 393,000 students competing for only 76,000 spaces. The pressure on Category A schools is too high, and this makes placement less fair and transparent”.

The Education Minister added that reclassification will help distribute students more evenly and make the placement system more efficient.

He cited regional inequalities in the distribution of top-tier schools

“Regions like North East, Savannah, Oti, and Western North have no Category A schools. We intend to deliberately prioritise these areas with infrastructure investments to improve access to quality education,” he explained.

Meanwhile, Kofi Asare, the Executive Director of Africa Education Watch, has said the confusion over the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) is because parents want top schools for their children

According to Kofi Asare, there is enough space to accommodate all qualified candidates, but parents and their children are chasing top schools.

Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday, September 27, 2025, Kofi Asare stated, “The problems are not entirely new, apart from one which is new, a problem that was resolved in the past, I don’t know how it resurfaced this year. But generally, the issues relating to parents’ resentment of schools that the computer placed them in are normal, and they are going to be with us so long as we have inadequate resources as a lower-middle-income country”.

“The government of Ghana has adequate spaces to accommodate all 590k or so candidates who have qualified for placement. What the Government of Ghana does not have is the taste of all the 590k students. So there will definitely be some dis-equilibrium between the expectation of candidates, parents on one side and government’s ability to provide education to their taste,” he stressed.

Kofi Asare further explained, “Everybody wants to attend a good Category A and Category B school. You have about 700 plus Senior High Schools, and then you have people chasing about 100 schools. So these issues will continue to emerge so far as there are resource deficits”.

Ghanaians mount pressure on GFA to suspend Gifty Oware over GH¢38.4m NSS allegation

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Ghanaians on the social media page X are mounting pressure on the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to suspend its Executive Council Member, Gifty Oware-Mensah, following the GH¢38.4m NSS allegation levelled against her.

Gifty Oware-Mensah, who is a Deputy Director-General of the National Service Authority, has been charged with stealing and willfully causing financial loss to the state.

Ghanaians have called on the GFA to strip her of her position as an Executive Council Member, arguing that the corruption charges she faces tarnish the image of the football association.

They called for the GFA to distance itself from the controversy.

Others have also hinted that if the GFA fails to act, they will submit a petition to the Fedéeation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).

The Attorney-General’s Department alleged Gifty Oware-Mensah misappropriated a total of GH¢38,458,248.87 between February 2022 and March 2024, overseeing finance, audit, and procurement at the NSA.

According to prosecutors, she dishonestly transferred GH¢31.5 million from a loan facility meant to support National Service Personnel into her private company accounts.

The said money was under the pretext of supplying goods on a hire-purchase basis; however, investigation revealed no such goods were supplied, and the names used to secure the loan were ghost names from the NSA’s internal system.

Part of the document read, “… Between February 2022 and March 2024, the accused approached officials of the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) and informed them that the NSA had signed an agreement with her company, Blocks of Life Consult (BLC), to sell products on hire-purchase to National Service Personnel. She claimed that she required a loan of GH¢ 78, 139, 910.00 to support her business”.

“ADB told the accused that they could not approve the loan of GH¢78,139,910.00 as it would mean they would be deducting the full allowances of the supposed NSP. The accused later agreed with the bank on the Principal sum of GH¢31,502,091.40 and interest of GH¢ 6,956 157. Forty-seven to be paid through source deduction of the 9,934 NSP allowance over 11 months.

“… The account was designated as NSA HIRE PURCHASE and had the account number 1221MPL230610001. The loan amount of GH¢ 31,502,091.40 was disbursed into the NSA HIRE PURCHASE account, and on the accursed’s instructions to the bank, the loan amount was subsequently transferred into Block of Life Consult, her company’s account number 108101016216501.”

AG also alleged, “Out of the money received, the accused transferred GH¢22,925,518,69 to Amaecom Global Company of which she was a director, and the remaining amount to three other companies.”

Gifty Oware-Mensah’s charges include “Stealing GH¢31,502,091.40 belonging to the National Service Authority. Willfully causing financial loss to the state through the fake hire-purchase arrangement, Abuse of public office for personal gain and Money laundering through the transfer of funds into personal and affiliated accounts”.

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“Some Ghanaians are fools and animals” – Prophet Fire Oja fire critics

Prophet Fire Oja, the founder of the Holiness of Christ Zion Ministry, has hit back at critics claiming he never said the Black Stars won’t qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

According to Prophet Oja, some Ghanaians are fools and others are animals, especially the bloggers.

Speaking in a viral video, the prophet stated, “I never said Ghana would not qualify for the World Cup 10 months ago, I said Ghana would qualify for the World Cup, they will go, why are you twisting the prophecy?

What is all this? You guys are helping my ministry; you are helping me to trend. Ministry about enemies and lovers that makes your ministry stand. Fools, that is why you are still suffering, that is why young guys are dying because they do not respect.

Go back and watch the video; the video is there on YouTube. Go and watch the full video. Some Ghanaians are animals, especially bloggers. They are animals.

Also, in a separate interview, Prophet claimed that the Black Stars team is in his palm and he tunes it to wherever he wants it to be.

Prophet Fire Oja stated, “The Black Stars team is in my palm; I tune it to wherever I want it to be. Put that in your memory. I am saying the team is in my palm. Whether you like it or not, it is in my palm.

The big men, if they are watching, will say you don’t know the prophet. Be there joking with things, and continue bashing me. What I am saying is, go and put it on social media, so people will bash me.

I will give you content to post. I like the trend more than food. Yes, the Blacks stars team is in my palm. I am repeating it”.

Prophet Fire Oja, whose remarks come following the backlash of a viral video that resurfaced following the Black Stars’ qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Prophet Fire Oja claimed in 2024, during the 31st watch night service in December 2024, said Ghana’s World Cup qualifying campaign in 2025 would fail.

However, many football fans have mocked Prophet Fire Oja’s prediction and celebrated the Black Stars’ achievement.

Meanwhile, the Black Stars, on 12 October 2025, officially qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after finishing the qualifiers as leaders in their Group.

Ghana defeated Comoros 1-0 at the Accra Sports Stadium, with Mohammed Kudus scoring the only goal in the game.

After 10 games in group I, the Black Stars topped the table with 25 points, Madagascar second with 19 points, Mali third with 18 points, Comoros 15, Central African Republic 8 and Chad in sixth place with 1.

Ghana joined the list of qualified countries on the African continent, with Coach Otto Addo now becoming the first Black Stars coach to reach two consecutive FIFA World Cup tournaments.

Watch the video below:

@scorpnewstv Replying to @Daakyehene Kwame Papabi Fire Oja replies Ghanaians claiming he gave fake prophesies on Ghana Blackstars not qualifying for the World Cup #scorpnewstv ♬ original sound – Scorp News TV

“Engineers and Scammers?” – Jon Benjamin reacts to Ibrahim Mahama’s AI-generated scam

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Former British High Commissioner to Ghana, Jon Benjamin, has reacted to the arrest of a suspect involved in an AI-generated scam attributed to the CEO of Engineers & Planners Ltd & Dzata Cement Ltd, Ibrahim Mahama.

According to Rafik Mahama, a key suspect has been arrested and has been processed for court by the Police Cybercrime Unit.

He added that Mr Ibrahim Mahama is not involved in any form of investment scheme or cryptocurrency trading, or business dealings anywhere.

Rafik Mahama revealed that steps are being taken to report the videos to the relevant state authorities to deal with them decisively.

In a Facebook post, the special aide to Mr Ibrahim Mahama stated, “The public is hereby put on notice to disregard the AI-generated videos being circulated by faceless people or sources about Mr Ibrahim Mahama being engaged in any form of investment scheme or cryptocurrency trading.

Mr Ibrahim Mahama is not involved in any form of investment scheme or cryptocurrency trading, or business dealings anywhere. As stated in our previous disclaimers on similar activities by scammers, the videos are fake and should be disregarded”.

His statement added, “Steps have been taken to report the videos to the relevant state authorities to deal with them decisively. A key suspect has been arrested and has been processed for court by the Police Cybercrime Unit.

Additionally, the public should disregard any FACEBOOK and TikTok accounts created using the image and name of Mr Ibrahim Mahama. Mr Ibrahim Mahama (CEO, Engineers & Planners Ltd & Dzata Cement Ltd) is not on FACEBOOK and TikTok. He’s available on his verified Instagram and X account”.

Reacting to the news, Jon Benjamin simply wrote on X, “Engineers and Scammers?”.

In related news, the Cybercrime Unit of the Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service has busted ten suspects for allegedly creating fake online food delivery platforms.

On 1st October 2025, the police operation led to the arrest of three male and three female suspects.

Six suspects named Wonder Sakpiti, Sedinam Amaglo, Godsway Dunyo, Angela Agblemekpe, Mathew Aheto, and Fafali Amoah were arrested.

The police’s preliminary investigations showed the suspect created fake social media accounts and a website to impersonate Papaye, Pizzaman, KFC, and Mawarko.

Victims on the fake platforms are directed to make payment via mobile money, after which they never receive their food.

The police further revealed that the suspects sometimes gain unauthorised access to victims’ mobile money wallets and bank accounts, claiming to help them and dupe them of their funds.

On October 12, 2025, a subsequent investigation led to the arrest of the main leader and three others in Haatso in Accra.

The suspect has been identified as Elijah Sotama Etse, alias Pop Smoke (the syndicate leader), Elliot Sotama Atsu, Jethro Atsu, and Obed Selasi Agboli.

According to the police, twelve mobile phones were retrieved, and other Digital devices used in the fraudulent activities were retrieved and are undergoing forensic examination.

Meanwhile, all ten suspects are in police custody and will be processed in court on Monday, 13th October 2025.

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“My father will take a clue from this” – Xhelia on Daddy Lumba’s funeral dispute

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Sheila Acheampong, commonly known as Xhelia, a Ghanaian Musician and daughter of the Highlife legend Nana Acheampong, has weighed in on the brouhaha surrounding Daddy Lumba’s final funeral rites.

According to Xhelia, her dad, Nana Acheampong, will take lessons from the ongoing legal battles over Daddy Lumba’s final funeral rights.

She explained that, having watched the legal dispute, she has resolved to be financially independent and not be entirely dependent on inherited assets.

Speaking on Okay FM, Xhelia stated, “The mistakes of the dead are a lesson to the living, and I know my father is a wise and knowledgeable man; he will take a clue from this”.

“I will try to be independent, so when the unexpected comes, I will not be too dependent on his properties … I can fend for myself. … If anything happens and someone takes all for himself or herself … I have my own,” she said.

Her comments come following Akosua Serwaa Fosuh, the wife of the late Daddy Lumba, seeking a court injunction to halt the funeral, demanding recognition as the sole legal widow and the right to perform traditional rites.

According to court documents, her legal team is contesting the legitimacy of the arrangements, arguing that they were made without her knowledge, consent, or involvement.

“PRAYING this Honourable Court for an Order restraining the Defendants, their agents, assigns, workmen, etc., from either collecting the body of the late CHARLES KWADWO FOSU a.k.a. DADDY LUMBA from the morgue and performing the burial and final funeral rites of the deceased, upon the grounds set out in the accompanying Affidavit,” the writ stated.

However, the Lawyers for the Fosu Royal Family of Parkoso and Nsuta have told Akosua Serwah that Daddy Lumba’s family only recognises Priscilla Ofori, also known as Odo Broni, as the wife of the musician.

According to the lawyers, Akosua Serwaa refused to relocate to Ghana some 15 years with Daddy Lumba for medical treatment.

The Lawyers further revealed that Akosua Serwaa wrote to Daddy Lumba of her intentions to initiate a divorce, and even presented Lumba’s drinks to his family, signifying the dissolution of their marriage.

The Legal team representing the Fosu Royal Family of Parkoso and Nsuta in their response to a complaint of Akusoa Serwaa wrote, “Our instructions are that your client, Akusua Serwah Fosuh of Germany, refused to relocate with her then husband, Daddy Lumba, to Ghana for medical help when the latter was seriously ill some 15 years ago and therefore deserted him in his difficult time of need”,

“Your client, on 4th February, 20 18 wrote to the late Daddy Lumba expressing her intentions to initiate divorce proceedings against him, raising many unfounded allegations which the late Daddy Lumba denied. In a letter dated 27th February, 2018, the then Lawyers for the late Daddy Lumba responded to the letter and called the bluff of your client to proceed with her threats to initiate divorce proceedings since he had moved on with his life after her desertion”.

The lawyers further detailed that Akosua Serwaa presented Lumba’s drinks to his family, signifying the dissolution of their marriage.

“By the traditions of the Akans generally and the Fosu Royal family in particular, which we have no doubt you are familiar with, the presentation of drinks by a wife to the family of the husband when accepted effectively dissolves the marriage between the two”.

The lawyers further revealed that the Fosu family only recognises Odo Broni as the wife of Daddy Lumba and not Akosua Serwah.

Watch the video below:

Tragic – Woman dead, fiancé hospitalised a day before their wedding

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A 30-year-old Linda Effah tragically lost her life just a day before her scheduled wedding.

According to reports, the late Linda Effah’s fiancé remains hospitalised following a serious accident that occurred over the weekend.

Reports suggest the groom sustained broken legs in the accident.

It has been revealed that the couple travelled to Tema to finalise arrangements for their wedding ceremony, which was set for Saturday, October 11, 2025.

The couple are said to have been involved in a fatal crash while returning to Japeikrom.

Their infant child, however, miraculously almost one year old, escaped the accident unhurt.

The groom-to-be is currently receiving treatment at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.

Both families are in deep grief, battling to come to terms with the unfortunate loss of Linda Effah.

The tragic death has sent shockwaves through the local community and among both families.

In another tragic news over the weekend, a Volta Lake boat disaster claimed the lives of 15 mourners.

Reports suggest the tragic incident happened at the Krachi West District of the Oti Region when the canon capsized on Saturday, October 11, 2025.

According to eyewitnesses, the victims were heading to a funeral when water began seeping into the canoe between Okuma-Akura and Debume. 

The Assembly Member for the area revealed that about 21 people were on board at the time.

Fifteen of the twenty-one people have been confirmed dead, while six others were rescued and taken to the hospital for treatment.

Reports suggest the survivors have since been discharged.

The tragic incident has plunged the entire community into mourning.

However, it has been alleged that the canoe was being operated by an 11-year-old boy.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has confirmed that 15 lives have been lost in a tragic boat accident near Kete Krachi on Saturday, October 11.

According to the Ghana Maritime Authority, of the 15 lives, 11 of them are children aged between 2 and 14.

The GMA described the incident as heartbreaking and extended its deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the Kete Krachi community.

The Ghana Maritime Authority, in a statement dated October 12, 2025, issued on Sunday evening, stated, “most heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the Kete Krachi community, who are enduring an unimaginable loss. The sheer number of young lives cut short leaves an indelible pain on the heart of the nation.

 The GMA reaffirms its unwavering commitment to improving and strictly enforcing safe water transport across all communities along the Volta Lake”.

We appeal to every citizen, community elder, and family member living along the lakeshore to act as vigilant custodians of safety— do not board any boat that is visibly overloaded or lacks lifejackets. Your vigilance and refusal could save lives, especially those of children.

The GMA remains resolute to unravelling the root causes of this disaster and implementing measures to ensure that no such tragedy ever occurs again on the Volta Lake”, it added.

Dr Bawumia kicks off campaign tour tomorrow, October 15

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Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the former Vice President, on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, will begin a nationwide campaign ahead of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primaries.

On Tuesday, October 14, a statement was issued by the Bawumia Campaign Team, signed by Dennis Miracles Aboagye, the Communications Director, stating, “Dr Bawumia looks forward to sharing his vision and collectively working towards a resounding victory for the NPP in the 2028 general elections,” the statement said.

“Such conduct is not in the spirit of the NPP and runs counter to the values of unity, respect, and decency that we hold dear,” the statement added.

The statement further called on communicators, supporters, and volunteers to refrain from personal attacks.

“As we seek to lead the NPP into the 2028 elections, we must remember that our goal is party unity and national progress. Communications that sow division and create lasting animosity only serve to weaken our collective front,” the statement cautioned.

The statement concluded, expressing confidence that Dr Bawumia’s vision, experience, and policy ideas will resonate strongly with delegates.

Also, Dennis Miracles Aboagye has downplayed ballot position ahead of the NPP’s presidential primary.

According to him, the ballot position is of minimal consequence in a delegate-based election.

Dennis Miracles Aboagye emphasised that ballot paper position isn’t a big deal; it’s the message that wins elections.

He cited Dr Bawumia’s landslide victory in the 2023 NPP primaries as proof from the number two position.

Speaking in an interview on Eyewitness News on Friday, October 10, he stated, “In spite of the position on the ballot, we have a responsibility to sell the message of Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and, most importantly, why the party should present him”.

“In the 2023 primaries, he was number two. He won the election because the emphasis is not on the position on the ballot paper but on the message that we carry to the people.”

He further argued, “Remember that this is a delegates’ conference. These are voters who are very political. There is not a single voter out of the over 280,000 who cannot identify any of the five candidates”.

“They can all be identified by name, they can all be identified by position. So typically, except for the funfair, when it comes to delegates’ elections, really the position on the ballot paper isn’t such a big deal.”

See the statement below:

“I am not supporting Bawumia for running mate slot or Speaker position” – Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu

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Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, the former Majority Leader in Parliament, has said his support for Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primary is not for his personal gain.

The former majority leader refuted allegations of supporting the former Vice President for his personal ambition.

Rumours have been spreading, suggesting Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu was backing Dr Bawumia to secure a running mate slot in the position of Speaker of Parliament.

However, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu has labelled such claims as false and misleading.

According to him, his support for Dr Bawumia is because he believes the NPP presidential aspirant has the experience and vision to lead the party to victory in 2028.

Speaking on Kumasi-based Pure FM, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu stated, “I have served my party and country with integrity and commitment”.

“My decisions are guided by principle, not personal interest,” Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu added.

In related news, Osei-Kyei Mensah Bonsu has urged his fellow NPP members to acknowledge the mistakes made during their time in power, apologise and move on.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Point of View, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu stated, “The way to go is to own up to certain things and move. You remember not too long ago, Dr Bawumia at a forum even offered an apology that we did our best, but given the circumstances that eschew Post-COVID-19, a few things were done perhaps upon reflection, we should have done it better.

For that reason, I apologise for the things that went wrong. We are not angels; we have learnt useful lessons going forward, and we will do much better. Even some within the party took him on, some said if you are apologising, apologies on your part don’t include me. I didn’t do anything wrong”.

He added, “How can somebody speak like that? You are a cabinet minister. Decisions are taken at the cabinet level, a collective decision that comes out. And then we have somebody say we didn’t get everything right, we apologise for the things we didn’t get right, and as a former cabinet minister, you say As for you, you are not part of it”.

Also, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu noted that external and domestic challenges contributed to the NPP’s defeat in the 2024 general elections.

He added, “I can relate to the findings that led to our loss. The Ashanti regional chapter of the enquiry cited four main issues -one being external factors, some strong winds that blew from outside and hit us unprepared. Yes, it affected the economy. But basically attributable to COVID-19, the Russia-Ukraine war, these are force majeures we couldn’t control; they hit us, they had repercussions on us on the economy in particular, especially the meltdown that we experienced.

He emphasised, “The former President [Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo] did so well to protect livelihoods and lives. But it had a toll on the country’s finances, and going forward, it ignited some heat in the system. And then we had to go to the IMF for a bailout.”

He stressed, “Some of the things that we had not intended to do, the domestic debt exchange programme, which affected over 800,000 people. They had families, and so, they were pressed. Then we had other matters, including, in particular, the Russia-Ukraine war, which escalated the cost of many items. Even fertilisers were affected.

“Then we had issues with governance. Post-COVID-19, our backs were to the wall. We had to put the brakes on development projects that affected the lubrication of the system.”

“Black Stars in my palm” – Prophet Fire Oja hit back at critics following his failed prophecy 

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Prophet Fire Oja, the founder of the Holiness of Christ Zion Ministry, has hit back at critics following his failed prophecy that the Black Stars won’t qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

 In a viral video that resurfaced following the Black Stars’ qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Prophet Fire Oja claimed in 2024, during the 31st watch night service in December 2024, said Ghana’s World Cup qualifying campaign in 2025 would fail.

However, many football fans have mocked Prophet Fire Oja’s prediction and celebrated the Black Stars’ achievement.

Speaking in a self-recorded video after his failed prophecy, the Prophet claimed that the Black Stars team is in his palm and he tunes it to wherever he wants it to be.

Prophet Fire Oja stated, “The Black Stars team is in my palm; I tune it to wherever I want it to be. Put that in your memory. I am saying the team is in my palm. Whether you like it or not, it is in my palm.

The big men, if they are watching, will say you don’t know the prophet. Be there joking with things, and continue bashing me. What I am saying is, go and put it on social media, so people will bash me.

I will give you content to post. I like the trend more than food. Yes, the Blacks stars team is in my palm. I am repeating it”.

The Black Stars on 12 October 2025, officially qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after finishing the qualifiers as leaders in their Group. 

Ghana defeated Comoros 1-0 at the Accra Sports Stadium, with Mohammed Kudus scoring the only goal in the game.

After 10 games in group I, the Black Stars topped the table with 25 points, Madagascar second with 19 points, Mali third with 18 points, Comoros 15, Central African Republic 8 and Chad in sixth place with 1.

Ghana joined the list of qualified countries on the African continent, with Coach Otto Addo now becoming the first Black Stars coach to reach two consecutive FIFA World Cup tournaments.

Additionally, President John Dramani Mahama has said that Ghana’s infamous Brazil 2014 World Cup campaign dented the country’s reputation.

It will be recalled that in 2014, Ghana’s World Cup campaign was marred by controversy when players refused to train ahead of their crucial final group game against Portugal over unpaid appearance fees.

The then-Mahama government had to fly $3 million in cash to Brazil to settle the players before kicking off the move, which caught global headlines.

The Black Stars of Ghana eventually lost that match 2–1 and failed to advance beyond the group stage.

President Mahama admitted that airlifting cash to Brazil to pay players their appearance fees badly hurt the country’s reputation.

Speaking in an interview to Sporty FM in Accra, President Mahama stated, “Brazil 2014 dented Ghana’s reputation, but that is all behind us now”.

“We’ve encouraged the GFA to ensure that payments due to the players are processed as quickly as possible. To ensure Brazil doesn’t happen again, there must be discipline and transparency.”

Mahama further explained, “We believe this campaign should be more disciplined and transparent. Often when decisions are made and funding is opaque, it creates all kinds of rumours and misconceptions in society”.

“The players have accounts now. We can pay their money directly instead of flying cash to them. That’s why I say the lessons of 2014 have been learned, and I believe this will be a smoother, more disciplined, and transparent campaign.”

Watch the video below:

Revealed – East Legon’s actual name is ‘Oteele’

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It has been revealed that Ghana’s prominent and affluent residential area, East Legon, was originally named Oteele.

East Legon is located in the Ayawaso West Municipal District of the Greater Accra Region in Ghana.

The area is known for its upscale housing, modern infrastructure, and proximity to key amenities and facilities.

According to the man, East Legon used to be called Bawaleshie or Oteele, but was changed to enhance the value of the property in the area.

Speaking on TV3 New Day, the man detailed, “You have seen some lands at East Legon, maybe near Abedi Pele’s area, East Legon is La, and generally East Legon is Bawaleshie or Oteele, which has been combined into East Legon.

East Legon is just a name which has been given to that place to enhance the value of the property for the purposes of making money. It is rather Oteele or Bawaleshie”.

He added, “East Legon is like West Legon; most of West Legon is Papua, but if you say Papua, people don’t want to buy for premium, so you say West Legon, and you are selling for premium. It is all for marketing”.

 Some Ghanaians have reacted to the video saying, “I’m not surɛrised, because the street on which a&c corner is located is called “oteele avenue.”

“Just a few years back, people used to insult my people in Kumasi because they had local names for their communities. Smh”, another netizen added.

Also, Ghana’s Labone in Accra has been ranked among Time Out’s top 10 coolest neighbourhoods in the world for 2025.

Labone was ranked the 10th in the world as the coolest neighbourhoods in the World in 2025.

Time Out has described Labone as a sleepy residential neighbourhood with not much more to offer than bungalows and mango trees, into a vibrant area that now offers much more.

Time Out’s rankings and report published on September 24, 2025, described Labone as offering entertainment and relaxation not just for locals, but also for diasporans.

The area is home, providing a plethora of happy-hour pubs, galleries, wine bars, and high-end shops.

Labone overtook South Africa’s Johannesburg, which was ranked 17th.

Times Out in an article describes Labone as, “Labone was once a quiet, family-oriented neighbourhood, where everyone knew their neighbour from cradle to grave. It’s still a community-centered place, but its trademark colonial-era bungalows and single-storey houses have recently given way to sky-high ultra-modern apartment complexes with elevators, balconies and rooftop terraces.

With that came culture, nightlife and great food and drink, and Labone today is easily one of Accra’s buzziest areas. Ready to take a big bite? Here’s what to see, eat, drink and do in Labone, Accra right now”.

Leading Time Out’s rankings is Jimbōchō in Tokyo, Japan, named the coolest neighbourhood in the world for 2025.

Followed by Borgerhout in Antwerp, Belgium, in second place; Barra Funda in São Paulo, Brazil, in third; Camberwell in London, United Kingdom, in fourth; and Avondale in Chicago, United States, in fifth.

Mullae-dong in Seoul, South Korea, takes sixth place; Ménilmontant in Paris, France, seventh; Nakatsu in Osaka, Japan, eighth; and Vallila in Helsinki, Finland, ninth.

Watch the video below:

“We were out of the country” – NPP Chairman clarify why executives failed to show up during Wontumi’s arrest

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Alhaji Osman Masawudu, the 3rd National Vice Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has clarified why the party’s executives were not present during the second arrest of Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

According to Alhaji Osman Masawudu, the party executives were not available during Chairman Wontumi’s second arrest.

He explained that it was not deliberate but rather due to unavoidable circumstances, including travel and health reasons.

Alhaji Osman Masawudu claimed virtually all top officers, including the General Secretary, National Organiser, and several others, were unavailable.

Speaking in an interview shared on social media, Alhaji Masawudu explained, “NPP, for now, we are so united, and you know, for now our slogan is touch one touch all. The moment you touch one, you touch all, but sometimes there comes a circumstance where all of us may have a mission. We were out of the country.

As I’m talking to you myself, I was out of the country and I just came yesterday. So, most of us, especially the national officers, were not around.

It can’t happen that the Ashanti regional chairman will be arrested and the national officers will not appear there… I was not around, the national chairman is not well, and he was not around. Nana B was not around, and the General Secretary (too). So almost all of us were not around”, he said.

His remarks come following Moses Abor, an aspiring NPP National Organiser, who voiced his deep displeasure with the party’s leadership, criticising their perceived neglect of Chairman Wontumi during his ongoing legal battle.

According to Moses Abor, not a single executive has come to visit Chairman Wontumi since his arrest.

Speaking to the media, Moses Abor stated, “We want to thank everyone so far, and I believe God will speak today.  I can’t think far; I am struggling to understand what is happening with the leadership of the NPP.

How is it that a whole regional chairman has been facing a serious situation since Monday, and yet, up till now, not a single party executive has shown up to support him?”

He added, “I think there is something wrong because NPP is not like this; there are a lot of things that are going on in the NDC, but we are quiet.

What at all has Wontumi done? What he is being accused of there is no evidence of him being caught red-handed doing it, and everyone is neglecting him.

This is not about Wontumi but about the party, and I keep saying that no amount of intimidation can bring the NPP down. Thank you very much”.

Meanwhile, Wontumi has been released from police custody after three nights.

The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) released comes after he fulfilled bail conditions amounting to GH₵25 million imposed across two separate illegal mining cases.

Wontumi, on Tuesday, October 7, was granted a ₵25 million bail by the Criminal Division of the Accra High Court in connection with two separate cases relating to alleged illegal mining.

Wontumi’s next hearing is scheduled for October 28, 2025.

Watch the video below:

How Gifty Oware-Mensah pulled off the alleged GH¢38.4m NSS ‘money heist’

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Dr Dominic Ayine, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, on October 13, 2025, accused the former Deputy Director-General of the National Service Authority, Gifty Oware-Mensah, of money laundering, stealing from the state amounting to GH¢38,458,248.87.

The Attorney-General’s Department alleged Gifty Oware-Mensah misappropriated a total of GH¢38,458,248.87 between February 2022 and March 2024, overseeing finance, audit, and procurement at the NSA.

According to prosecutors, she dishonestly transferred GH¢31.5 million from a loan facility meant to support National Service Personnel into her private company accounts.

The said money was under the pretext of supplying goods on a hire-purchase basis; however, investigation revealed no such goods were supplied, and the names used to secure the loan were ghost names from the NSA’s internal system.

Part of the document read, “… Between February 2022 and March 2024, the accused approached officials of the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) and informed them that the NSA had signed an agreement with her company, Blocks of Life Consult (BLC), to sell products on hire-purchase to National Service Personnel. She claimed that she required a loan of GH¢ 78, 139, 910.00 to support her business”.

“ADB told the accused that they could not approve the loan of GH¢78,139,910.00 as it would mean they would be deducting the full allowances of the supposed NSP. The accused later agreed with the bank on the Principal sum of GH¢31,502,091.40 and interest of GH¢ 6,956 157. Forty-seven to be paid through source deduction of the 9,934 NSP allowance over 11 months.

“… The account was designated as NSA HIRE PURCHASE and had the account number 1221MPL230610001. The loan amount of GH¢ 31,502,091.40 was disbursed into the NSA HIRE PURCHASE account, and on the accursed’s instructions to the bank, the loan amount was subsequently transferred into Block of Life Consult, her company’s account number 108101016216501.”

AG also alleged, “Out of the money received, the accused transferred GH¢22,925,518,69 to Amaecom Global Company of which she was a director, and the remaining amount to three other companies.”

Gifty Oware-Mensah’s charges include “Stealing GH¢31,502,091.40 belonging to the National Service Authority. Willfully causing financial loss to the state through the fake hire-purchase arrangement, Abuse of public office for personal gain and Money laundering through the transfer of funds into personal and affiliated accounts”.

It will be recalled that Dr Dominic Ayine, the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, has stated that twelve suspects will be charged in the National Service scandal.

According to the Attorney General, former Executive Director of the National Service Scheme, Mustapha Ussif, former Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), Osei Assibey Antwi and former Deputy Director in charge of Finance and Administration, Gifty Oware-Mensah.

He revealed that the former National Service Authority (NSA) ran a criminal enterprise which siphoned huge sums of public funds, including over GHC548 million.

The Attorney General later revealed that eight suspects had approached him for plea negotiations.

The A-G revealed that suspects demanding a plea negotiation include some officials offering to testify against their colleagues.

Speaking during a press briefing at the Government Accountability Series on Monday, July 28, 2025, Dr. Ayine explained, “The National Service Authority scandal case was due to be filed last week when we stumbled upon further evidence of malfeasance involving an account at the Bank of Ghana, to which had been transferred an amount of One Hundred and Eighty-Nine Million Ghana Cedis (Ghs 189,000,000.00).

Out of this amount, Eighty Million Ghana Cedis cannot be traced, but we found two cheques bearing the name and account details of the former Director General, Mr. Osei Assibey, which had been used to withdraw funds totalling a little under Two Million Ghana Cedis (Ghs 2m) from the said account”.

He added, “We have therefore halted the filing of charges so as to await the receipt of the evidence from the relevant state agencies, including the Bank of Ghana, Ministry of Finance and the Controller and Accountant General”.

“Brazil 2014 dented Ghana’s reputation, we must ensure it doesn’t happen again” – Mahama

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President John Dramani Mahama has said that Ghana’s infamous Brazil 2014 World Cup campaign dented the country’s reputation.

It will be recalled that in 2014, Ghana’s World Cup campaign was marred by controversy when players refused to train ahead of their crucial final group game against Portugal over unpaid appearance fees.

The then-Mahama government had to fly $3 million in cash to Brazil to settle the players before kicking off the move, which caught global headlines.

The Black Stars of Ghana eventually lost that match 2–1 and failed to advance beyond the group stage.

President Mahama admitted that airlifting cash to Brazil to pay players their appearance fees badly hurt the country’s reputation.

Speaking in an interview to Sporty FM in Accra, President Mahama stated, “Brazil 2014 dented Ghana’s reputation, but that is all behind us now”.

“We’ve encouraged the GFA to ensure that payments due to the players are processed as quickly as possible. To ensure Brazil doesn’t happen again, there must be discipline and transparency.”

Mahama further explained, “We believe this campaign should be more disciplined and transparent. Often when decisions are made and funding is opaque, it creates all kinds of rumours and misconceptions in society”.

“The players have accounts now. We can pay their money directly instead of flying cash to them. That’s why I say the lessons of 2014 have been learned, and I believe this will be a smoother, more disciplined, and transparent campaign.”

Meanwhile, the Black Stars on 12 October 2025, officially qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after finishing the qualifiers as leaders in their Group. 

Ghana defeated Comoros 1-0 at the Accra Sports Stadium, with Mohammed Kudus scoring the only goal in the game.

After 10 games in group I, the Black Stars topped the table with 25 points, Madagascar second with 19 points, Mali third with 18 points, Comoros 15, Central African Republic 8 and Chad in sixth place with 1.

Ghana joined the list of qualified countries on the African continent, with Coach Otto Addo now becoming the first Black Stars coach to reach two consecutive FIFA World Cup tournaments.

Additionally, Ghanaian football fan Obour has sent a message to US President Donald Trump following the Black Stars securing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

According to Obour, Ghanaians are coming to support the Blackstars to victory in the United States, but not to run.

Speaking to the media, the Ghanaian football fan stated, “Donald Trump should be careful, my message gives it to Donald Trump, his dream of Ghana and Nigeria not qualifying, he should take out the Nigerians, we Ghanaians are coming.

We are coming to America, we are not coming to run, we are coming to support the Black Stars. We are coming to support our team to go forward”.

He added, “So, we are not thinking about America or Donald Trump; we are thinking about the Ghana Black Stars to bring the World Cup back home.

“We stand with you in this moment of grief” – Veep mourns victims of Volta Lake tragedy

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The Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has extended government condolences to the families of the victims of the tragic boat accident on the Volta Lake.

In a Facebook message on Monday, October 13, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang communicated the government’s solidarity with the families and loved ones affected.

She wrote, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic boat accident on the Volta Lake near Kete Krachi that has claimed the lives of 15 people, including 11 children.

On behalf of the Government of Ghana, I extend heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the affected community, and all who have been impacted by this tragedy. We stand with you in this moment of grief”.

The tragic Volta Lake boat disaster claimed the lives of 15 mourners.

Reports suggest the tragic incident happened at the Krachi West District of the Oti Region when the canon capsized on Saturday, October 11, 2025.

According to eyewitnesses, the victims were heading to a funeral when water began seeping into the canoe between Okuma-Akura and Debume. 

The Assembly Member for the area revealed that about 21 people were on board at the time.

Fifteen of the twenty-one people have been confirmed dead, while six others were rescued and taken to the hospital for treatment.

Reports suggest the survivors have since been discharged.

The tragic incident has plunged the entire community into mourning.

However, it has been alleged that the  canoe was being operated by a 14-year-old boy

Also, the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has confirmed that 15 lives have been lost in a tragic boat accident near Kete Krachi on Saturday, October 11.

According to the Ghana Maritime Authority, of the 15 lives, 11 of them are children aged between 2 and 14.

The GMA described the incident as heartbreaking and extended its deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the Kete Krachi community.

The Ghana Maritime Authority, in a statement dated October 12, 2025, issued on Sunday evening, stated, “most heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the Kete Krachi community, who are enduring an unimaginable loss. The sheer number of young lives cut short leaves an indelible pain on the heart of the nation.

 The GMA reaffirms its unwavering commitment to improving and strictly enforcing safe water transport across all communities along the Volta Lake”.

We appeal to every citizen, community elder, and family member living along the lakeshore to act as vigilant custodians of safety— do not board any boat

that is visibly overloaded or lacks lifejackets. Your vigilance and refusal could save lives, especially those of children.

The GMA remains resolute in unravelling the root causes of this disaster and implementing measures to ensure that no such tragedy ever occurs again on

the Volta Lake”, it added.

The GMA further revealed plans to prevent future tragedies: “A full investigation involving maritime inspectors and the Navy Task Force to determine the cause of the accident and hold those responsible accountable.

The formation of a high-level Casualty Investigations Committee in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport to propose urgent policy reforms.

Enhanced enforcement operations along the Volta Lake, with a focus on seizing and prosecuting overloaded boats and operators who flout safety regulations”.

Meanwhile, John Kudzo Gyapong, the Oti Regional Minister, has said he will not be surprised if reports claiming the boat involved in the Kete Krachi accident was being operated by an 11-year-old boy.

According to the Minister, as soon as one turns nine years old, they should know how to handle a boat.

He emphasised that he was not surprised that a child was controlling the boat, noting that such situations are common in the area.

Speaking on Eyewitness News on Monday, John Kudzo Gyapong stated, “I won’t be surprised if the person is 11 years that was handling the boat, because as soon as you get to the age of 9, you should be able to handle a boat.

So far as the fishermen are concerned, you should be able to handle a boat, you should be able to go fishing, you should be able to help your parents do anything that he does,” he said.

He further added, “As much as we educate people on the use of life jackets on the Volta Lake, whether you advise them or not, whether you educate them or not, whether you give them life jackets or not, unfortunately, they don’t use the life jacket. I haven’t seen any boat crossing or leaving an island where they put on life jackets.

We try to educate them; we arrest them. You ask them, and they will tell you the life jackets are heavy and they smell — that is the story they will tell you.

They will never want to use the life jacket. As much as you educate and fight to enforce the law that requires the use of life jackets on the Volta Lake, they find it difficult to wear them,” he explained.

See the post below:

“I won’t be surprised an 11-year-old operated the boat” – Minister on Volta Lake accident

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John Kudzo Gyapong, the Oti Regional Minister, has said he will not be surprised if reports claiming the boat involved in the Kete Krachi accident was being operated by an 11-year-old boy.

According to the Minister, as soon as one turns nine years old, they should know how to handle a boat.

He emphasised that he was not surprised that a child was controlling the boat, noting that such situations are common in the area.

Speaking on Eyewitness News on Monday, John Kudzo Gyapong stated, “I won’t be surprised if the person is 11 years that was handling the boat, because as soon as you get to the age of 9, you should be able to handle a boat.

So far as the fishermen are concerned, you should be able to handle a boat, you should be able to go fishing, you should be able to help your parents do anything that he does,” he said.

He further added, “As much as we educate people on the use of life jackets on the Volta Lake, whether you advise them or not, whether you educate them or not, whether you give them life jackets or not, unfortunately, they don’t use the life jacket. I haven’t seen any boat crossing or leaving an island where they put on life jackets.

We try to educate them; we arrest them. You ask them, and they will tell you the life jackets are heavy and they smell — that is the story they will tell you.

They will never want to use the life jacket. As much as you educate and fight to enforce the law that requires the use of life jackets on the Volta Lake, they find it difficult to wear them,” he explained.

Meanwhile, the tragic Volta Lake boat disaster claimed the lives of 15 mourners.

Reports suggest the tragic incident happened at the Krachi West District of the Oti Region when the canon capsized on Saturday, October 11, 2025.

According to eyewitnesses, the victims were heading to a funeral when water began seeping into the canoe between Okuma-Akura and Debume. 

The Assembly Member for the area revealed that about 21 people were on board at the time.

Fifteen of the twenty-one people have been confirmed dead, while six others were rescued and taken to the hospital for treatment.

Reports suggest the survivors have since been discharged.

The tragic incident has plunged the entire community into mourning.

However, it has been alleged that the  canoe was being operated by a 14-year-old boy

Also, the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has confirmed that 15 lives have been lost in a tragic boat accident near Kete Krachi on Saturday, October 11.

According to the Ghana Maritime Authority, of the 15 lives, 11 of them are children aged between 2 and 14.

The GMA described the incident as heartbreaking and extended its deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the Kete Krachi community.

The Ghana Maritime Authority, in a statement dated October 12, 2025, issued on Sunday evening, stated, “most heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the Kete Krachi community, who are enduring an unimaginable loss. The sheer number of young lives cut short leaves an indelible pain on the heart of the nation.

 The GMA reaffirms its unwavering commitment to improving and strictly enforcing safe water transport across all communities along the Volta Lake”.

We appeal to every citizen, community elder, and family member living along the lakeshore to act as vigilant custodians of safety— do not board any boat

that is visibly overloaded or lacks lifejackets. Your vigilance and refusal could save lives, especially those of children.

The GMA remains resolute in unravelling the root causes of this disaster and implementing measures to ensure that no such tragedy ever occurs again on

the Volta Lake”, it added.

The GMA further revealed plans to prevent future tragedies: “A full investigation involving maritime inspectors and the Navy Task Force to determine the cause of the accident and hold those responsible accountable.

The formation of a high-level Casualty Investigations Committee in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport to propose urgent policy reforms.

Enhanced enforcement operations along the Volta Lake, with a focus on seizing and prosecuting overloaded boats and operators who flout safety regulations”.

NSS Scandal – Gifty Oware-Mensah charged for stealing GH¢38.4m

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Gifty Oware-Mensah, controversial immediate past Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), has been charged with causing GH¢38.4 million in alleged theft to the state.

The Former Deputy Executive Director of the NSA was arraigned before the High Court in Accra on multiple charges.

Her charges include “Stealing GH¢31,502,091.40 belonging to the National Service Authority. Willfully causing financial loss to the state through the fake hire-purchase arrangement, Abuse of public office for personal gain and Money laundering through the transfer of funds into personal and affiliated accounts”.

The Attorney-General’s Department alleged Gifty Oware-Mensah misappropriated a total of GH¢38,458,248.87 between February 2022 and March 2024, overseeing finance, audit, and procurement at the NSA.

According to prosecutors, she dishonestly transferred GH¢31.5 million from a loan facility meant to support National Service Personnel into her private company accounts.

The said money was under the pretext of supplying goods on a hire-purchase basis; however, investigation revealed no such goods were supplied, and the names used to secure the loan were ghost names from the NSA’s internal system.

It will be recalled that Dr Dominic Ayine, the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, has stated that twelve suspects will be charged in the National Service scandal.

According to the Attorney General, former Executive Director of the National Service Scheme, Mustapha Ussif, former Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), Osei Assibey Antwi and former Deputy Director in charge of Finance and Administration, Gifty Oware-Mensah.

He revealed that the former National Service Authority (NSA) ran a criminal enterprise which siphoned huge sums of public funds, including over GHC548 million.

The Attorney General later revealed that eight suspects had approached him for plea negotiations.

The A-G revealed that suspects demanding a plea negotiation include some officials offering to testify against their colleagues.

Speaking during a press briefing at the Government Accountability Series on Monday, July 28, 2025, Dr. Ayine explained, “The National Service Authority scandal case was due to be filed last week when we stumbled upon further evidence of malfeasance involving an account at the Bank of Ghana, to which had been transferred an amount of One Hundred and Eighty-Nine Million Ghana Cedis (Ghs 189,000,000.00).

Out of this amount, Eighty Million Ghana Cedis cannot be traced, but we found two cheques bearing the name and account details of the former Director General, Mr. Osei Assibey, which had been used to withdraw funds totalling a little under Two Million Ghana Cedis (Ghs 2m) from the said account”.

He added, “We have therefore halted the filing of charges so as to await the receipt of the evidence from the relevant state agencies, including the Bank of Ghana, Ministry of Finance and the Controller and Accountant General”.

See the charges below:

Former NSS boss Osei Assibey Antwi charged with 14 counts including GH¢600m financial loss

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Osei Assibey Antwi, immediate past Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), has been charged with  14 counts.

His charges included causing financial loss to the Republic, stealing, and money laundering, in a case involving more than GH¢600 million.

According to the charge sheet, Osei Assibey Antwi is accused of authorising payments to over 60,000 non-existent national service personnel and misappropriating public funds.

The former NSS boss is facing multiple counts under sections “179A(1) and 124(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29) and section 1(2)(c) of the Anti-Money Laundering Act, 2020 (Act 1044)”.

Prosecutors allege that the former NSA boss “willfully caused financial loss of GH¢500,861,744.02 to the Republic by authorising the payment of allowances to over 60,000 “ghost” service personnel between August 2021 and February 2025. Also facing six counts of stealing.

The theft includes, “GH¢3.6 million on August 22, 2023, GH¢516,000 each on September 11, October 26, and November 23, 2023, GH¢1.03 million on December 18, 2023, GH¢2.06 million on May 14, 2024.

He has also been accused of transferring GH¢8.26 into his personal account.

The charge sheet also cites “unauthorised withdrawals from the Kumawu Farm Project account (No. 1018631542212), amounting to GH¢74 million”.

The Accra High Court is expected to hear the case with Mr Assibey Antwi’s plea yet to be entered.

It will be recalled that Dr Dominic Ayine, the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, has stated that twelve suspects will be charged in the National Service scandal.

According to the Attorney General, former Executive Director of the National Service Scheme, Mustapha Ussif, former Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), Osei Assibey Antwi and former Deputy Director in charge of Finance and Administration, Gifty Oware-Mensah.

He revealed that the former National Service Authority (NSA) ran a criminal enterprise which siphoned huge sums of public funds, including over GHC548 million.

The Attorney General later revealed that eight suspects had approached him for plea negotiations.

The A-G revealed that suspects demanding a plea negotiation include some officials offering to testify against their colleagues.

Speaking during a press briefing at the Government Accountability Series on Monday, July 28, 2025, Dr. Ayine explained, “The National Service Authority scandal case was due to be filed last week when we stumbled upon further evidence of malfeasance involving an account at the Bank of Ghana, to which had been transferred an amount of One Hundred and Eighty-Nine Million Ghana Cedis (Ghs 189,000,000.00).

Out of this amount, Eighty Million Ghana Cedis cannot be traced, but we found two cheques bearing the name and account details of the former Director General, Mr. Osei Assibey, which had been used to withdraw funds totalling a little under Two Million Ghana Cedis (Ghs 2m) from the said account”.

He added, “We have therefore halted the filing of charges so as to await the receipt of the evidence from the relevant state agencies, including the Bank of Ghana, Ministry of Finance and the Controller and Accountant General”.

“Adwoa Safo did not vote for me to become Speaker” – Alban Bagbin

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Rt Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, has revealed that the former member of parliament for Dome Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo, did not vote for him to become Speaker of Parliament.

It will be recalled that accusations were levelled against Adwoa Safo as the NPP MPs suspected to have voting for the then opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) nominee Alban Bagbin instead of the NPP’s Mike Ocquaye Snr. as the Speaker in 2020.

According to Speaker Bagin, Adwoa Safo is his daughter, but did not vote for him as she has been accused by many, adding that he knows all those who voted for him in the famous election in parliament.

Alban Bagbin made this revelation when Adwoa Safo, the former Deputy Majority Leader of Parliament and Member of Parliament, led a delegation of her family to formally notify the Speaker of Parliament about the passing of Apostle Dr Kwadwo Safo Kantanka.

Speaking during the meeting, Alban Bagbin stated, “ Adwoa Safo is my daughter. I knew her even before she joined me in parliament. But she did not vote for me to become speaker, I know those who voted for me”.

Meanwhile, Sarah Adwoa Safo once said Ghana will turn upside down if I reveal the number of NPP MPs who voted against Speaker Mike Oquaye.

According to Adwoa Safo, she and the then majority leader, Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu, told President Akufo-Addo that Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye would lose the Speakership election if he was nominated.

Speaking on the issue, Adwoa Safo stated, “I voted for Professor Mike Oquaye because I wouldn’t have gone there if I was not going to vote. I know everyone who voted against Professor Mike Oquaye, and this country will turn upside down if I decide to mention names”.

“We went to tell President Akufo-Addo that the MPs are giving a signal that they don’t want Professor Mike Oquaye, and something needed to be done about it. But he still insisted that he wanted Professor Mike Oquaye as Speaker and that we should whip everybody in line.”

Adowa Safo revealed he voted for Professor Mike Oquaye because she wouldn’t have gone there if she was not going to vote.

She added, “I voted for Professor Mike Oquaye because I wouldn’t have gone there if I was not going to vote. I know everyone who voted against Professor Mike Oquaye and this country will turn upside down if I decide to mention names.”

“When we went to the House, those who had threatened to vote against him didn’t change their minds. Those who voted against Professor Mike Oquaye were not only two but were many and that is why Hon Carlos Ahenkorah went to snatch the ballot box in order to save the NPP from a shameful defeat.”

“If we had counted the votes, it would have been more shameful for the NPP, so nobody should blame me. We couldn’t count the votes because of the chaos, and then leadership decided to give it to Bagbin in order not to create any vacuum so why would anybody blame me for Professor Mike Oquaye’s defeat?”

See the post below:

“Whoever wins is going to taste a very bitter defeat in 2028” – NPP flagbearer aspirant told 

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Dickson Kyere-Duah, the Member of Parliament for Berekum West, has told the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) that whoever wins their flagbearership race will taste a very bitter defeat in 2028.

The NDC MP emphasised that it doesn’t matter who the NPP will present in the 2028 elections, as they are going to be defeated.  

According to Dickson Kyere-Duah, the NDC is poised to retain power in 2028.

Speaking on Joy News AM Show, Dickson Kyere-Duah stated, “For me, all five candidates on the ballot paper for NPP, we in the NDC are not so much interested in who wins, because whoever wins is definitely going to taste a very bitter defeat in 2028”.

“It doesn’t matter whether it is Kennedy Agyapong, Bawumia or whoever,” he added.

Meanwhile, Meanwhile, Kennedy Agyapong, the former Assin Central MP, has picked the number one spot in the  New Patriotic Party (NPP) ballot position ahead of the presidential primary scheduled for January 31, 2026.

Dr Bryan Acheampong, former Minister of Agriculture, picked the second position, with former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia picking the third slot.

 Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, the former education minister and former General Secretary of the party, Kwabena Agyepong, picked the fourth and fifth positions.

The balloting was held at the party’s headquarters in Accra on Friday, October 10, 2025.

The balloting was conducted by the party’s National Elections Committee (NEC).

The NPP will hold its presidential primary on January 31, 2026.

In related news, Prophet Telvin Sowah, a Ghanaian man of God, has boldly prophesied that the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, will become Ghana’s president in 2028.

According to Prophet Telvin Sowah, Asiedu Nketia will become Ghana’s president in 2028 and will serve for two terms.

He emphasised that the New Patriotic Party in 2028 will garner 44.78 per cent in the election, with the NDC winning by 53 per cent.

Speaking in an interview on Accra FM, shared on TikTok, Prophet Telvin Sowah stated, “NPP results 2028, 44.78 per cent, NDC presidential results are 53 per cent. Asiedu Nketia will be the president of Ghana in 2028, and he will serve for 8 years”.

Prophet Telvin Sowah further added that Nana Kwame Bediako of the New Force will one day become Ghana’s president, adding that Kennedy Agyapong and Alan Kyeremanten will also team up.

He added, “Nana Kwame Bediako will become the president of Ghana; it is merged in time, Kennedy Agyapong will team up with Alan Kyeremanten to shake the NPP for 2032 and in that condition, they will still lose the elections”.

Even if Kennedy Agyapong wins the flagbearer elections, he will still not get up to 36 per cent of the total vote. There is no possibility of a time when Ken became a running mate and they went for the election; it does not exist in time. But in the original space of the timeline, there is no possibility that Kennedy Agyapong will win the election; it is done and dusted. He will not win the flagbearership election, so he will not be able to contest for the election”, the man of God highlighted.

HeFRA to shut down over 200 unlicensed health facilities in Ashanti Region

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Christabel Ayiram, the Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HEFRA), has announced that the agency will shut down over 200 unlicensed health facilities in the Ashanti Region.

According to Christabel Ayiram, HeFRA has begun a large-scale crackdown on unlicensed and non-compliant health facilities in the Ashanti Region.

Speaking to JoyNews, HeFRA’s Public Relations Officer, Christabel Ayiram, stated, “Both today and tomorrow, we are locking down facilities that are unlicensed. So any facility that is unlicensed by HEFRA, we are coming after you”.

“We are advising those who are unlicensed that they should come to the HEFRA office. We are at Adum, opposite Opoku Trading. And then there’s a team on standby. Once you meet all the requirements, they’ll do an inspection,” Ms Ayiram stated.

She added, “Because it’s a special exercise, we have a team on standby that will do the inspection for you. And once we do the inspection for you, and you meet our requirements, your facility will be open to the public. That is the only thing that will save anybody. Aside that, it is no license, no operations for our facility”.

According to her, there are over 200 unlicensed health facilities that will be closing down.

She warned, “For the Ashanti region, the facilities that are not licensed—there are more than 200. And we’ll close all of them down. All of them. We are not even sparing one. So once you are not licensed, we are coming after you. So just come and get your license with HEFRA”.

“Especially the dental facilities. Even though they don’t call themselves a clinic. Most of the people who practice in those facilities are not even like practitioners. I don’t even know how they… I think some of them claim they learnt on their job. Some of them claim their mothers taught them, their fathers taught them. And, I mean, these are people’s health. You don’t do that with people’s health”.

“So we are coming after all of them. So they should just come to HEFRA and do the right thing. We are regulators. We don’t take pleasure in locking down facilities. But where you are wrong, because it has to do with people’s health, we will take you on,” Ms Ayiram emphasised.

Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer of Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HeFRA), Dr Winfred Baah, has announced that the agency has shut down 17 health facilities across Ghana.

The 17 health facilities have been shut down for operating without valid licences or under unsafe conditions that pose risks to public health.

According to HeFRA, the move is part of a nationwide inspection intended to identify and sanction facilities operating without proper authorisation or documentation.

HeFRA highlighted that operating outside the regulatory framework endangers lives.

Speaking at a media briefing, Dr Winfred Baah stated, “Some of these facilities have been particularly defiant. They’ve ignored administrative fines and failed to renew their licences. Once a facility becomes unlicensed, we cannot vouch for the competence of its staff or the safety of the equipment being used”.

“When that happens, we must step in to protect the public. HeFRA is currently restructuring to strengthen our ability to regulate health facilities effectively,” he added.

Dr Winfred Baah added that the agency is committed to upholding quality healthcare standards. 

HeFRA urged all health facility operators to adhere strictly to licensing and operational requirements.

Watch Ken Agyapong show off energetic and legendary dance moves

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A viral video of Kennedy Agyapong, the former Assin Central Member of Parliament and NPP presidential hopeful, displaying his dance moves has surfaced on social media.

In the viral video, Ken Agyapong, dressed in a white top and jeans, was spotted with a woman dancing.

Ken Agyapong rolled up the years to show off his legendary dance moves on the floor.

Meanwhile, some Ghanaians have weighed in on the video, saying, “He is a better dancer than Wontumi. Dont try Hon. Kennedy’s dance moves”

“The Akomprɛko Agyapong !, one more netizen wrote.

Another netizen added, “You see the kind of music, ɛnnyɛ bumbum yi bi oo, asikafoɔ dwom paa”

I related Kennedy Agyapong news, the former Assin Central Member of Parliament, has reacted to securing the number one position on the ballot paper for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primary.

The NPP presidential aspirant noted that his number position means the top spot is their spot.

According to Kennedy Agyapong, he picked number one in 2023 and number one again in 2026, which proves some things are not a coincidence but a confirmation of his presidential ambition.

In a social media post on X, he wrote, “Number 1 in 2023. Number 1 in 2026. Some things are not a coincidence; they are a confirmation. The top spot is our spot. The message is clear. Let’s get to work!”.

Also, Kwasi Kwarteng, the spokesperson of the campaign team of Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has said the number one spot gives them another advantage in the race.

According to Kwasi Kwarteng, Kennedy Agyapong’s No.1 spot on the ballot is “a sign of victory”.

He highlighted that they are not fixated on any number, but the number spot gives them an advantage in terms of marketing, PR, and visibility.

Speaking to journalists after the balloting exercise held at the NPP headquarters in Asylum Down, Accra, on Friday, October 10, Kwasi Kwarteng stated, “It was just five candidates. It was an open process, and the candidates had representatives who picked their own numbers”.

“In terms of the people, the marketing, and the visibility of the ballots, being number one gives us a lot of advantage. From day one, we have always maintained that our campaign is the right one,” he said.

He added, “We are going to tell delegates the core message of the party and what Ken has always maintained, that even in the spirit of revival, we need a new face. Kennedy is bringing three things: jobs, jobs, and more jobs. That’s the most important.”

“We are not fixated on any number. “But even after the balloting, number one gives us another advantage in terms of marketing, PR, and visibility on the ballot. These are legitimate factors we can acknowledge.”

“These are two separate elections with different dynamics. This time around, we are at number one, and that should send a strong signal that we are coming up. But the most important thing is that whatever number we choose is divine.”

“We will go to the delegates, talk to them, and we are very hopeful. Like the Bible says, the heart of the king is in the hands of the Lord. So we are confident that God will guide this process in our favour.”

Watch the video below:

“The fight against galamsey could cost $10bn” – Lands Minister

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Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, has revealed the staggering potential financial scope of the anti-galamsey effort.

According to the Lands Minister, a comprehensive fight against illegal mining could cost the nation an estimated $10 billion.

The Lands minister is quoted by 3 news to have said, “The fight against galmsey could cost $10 billion”.

Some Ghanaians have reacted to the minister’s comments, saying, “That figure alone shows just how destructive galamsey has been,  not only to our environment but to our economy. If we’d invested that $10 billion in industries, education, or agriculture instead, imagine where Ghana would be today. The fight must continue, but accountability and prevention must go hand in hand”.

Another netizen added, “OUR LIVES ARE WORTH MUCH MORE!  WE SHOULD SPARE NO EFFORT.  But also mobilise the community and they lead the fight against irresponsible small-scale mining”.

“10 billion what? How much is our entire budget? This is thievery”, a netizen added.

One more netizen added, “Like how? I don’t understand. Cancelling illegal mining and deploying already paid soldiers to the forest will cost what again? They have started”

“Oyiwa! Meanwhile Galamsey is more intense than it was in 2024 mainly because the government is buying all gold from Galamsey for exports.

The government is enabling Galamsey once they continue to buy gold from them. There’s no traceability in place for GOLDBOD purchases”, a Ghanaian stated.

Additionally, a netizen added, “More reason it makes no sense to focus on the livelihood of these criminals when discussing galamsey. Do you know how many legal jobs that money can create? It is infuriating when we use livelihood to defend why we are not treating these people as criminals, as they are”.

Meanwhile, Professor Kwesi Aning, a Security consultant, has claimed Italian mafia network is using Ghana’s illegal mining (galamsey) to clean their dirty money.

According to Professor Kwesi Aning, his research findings cite that the Italian mafia network is ceasing advantage of galamsey to launder money.

Speaking on JoyNewsFile on Saturday, October 11, 2025, Professor Kwesi Aning stated, “There are two studies, several studies, in fact. One shows that a group from Italy, the Italian mafia, brings in enough dirty money to buy gold. This is free consultancy for the national security and the financial intelligence agency; one Italian mafia group brings in dirty money to buy gold, takes it, sells it elsewhere, cleans the money, and takes it back to Europe.

That is number one,” he stated while answering a question on whether the security issues arising from illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, could lead to the terrorisation of Ghanaians or militia activities in the country”.

He added, “Number two, we know, and it is proven beyond doubt, that with the exception of Mali, Ghana is the second-largest gold-producing country, where the leakages are massive.

Now, I think Elikem might be able to tell us, but initial calculations show that about 2 to 2.5 billion dollars worth of illicit small-scale gold oozes out of the system every year.

This leads to organised criminal groups having an interest in ensuring that whatever NIAMOS is achieving right now will be resisted, and I can tell you that there is going to be resistance,” he added.

See the post below:

“GHOne sacked me because I was bleaching” – Bukom Banku

Briamah Kamoko, commonly known as Bukom Banku, a Ghanaian entertainer and former boxer, has revealed he lost his job on GHOne TV due to his decision to bleach his skin.

According to Bunkom Banku, his decision to bleach his skin should not be an issue.

He emphasised that it’s his life and he believes he has the right to do whatever he wants with his own body.

Speaking on Ucook on United Television, hosted by Empress Gifty, Bukom Banku explained, “They sacked me, they said I can’t bleach myself. Here we are, you have a different life, and I also have a different life.

It was my life; some people understood this well, and they said I should not bleach. Bleaching was my talent, and they wanted to stop my talent”.

He added, “I don’t understand why I should be sacked for bleaching my skin. Everything I do to myself is my talent. The company should focus on what I bring to the table, not my looks”.

It will be recalled that Bukom Banku was the host of Bukom Banku Live, a comedy and entertainment show that was airing on GHOne TV.

The program launched during the 2020 election year and became one of the most talked-about shows.

However, it was cancelled a few months later, with GHOne TV announcing that Bukum Banku Live had fulfilled its purpose for the election.

Many Ghanaians, however, alleged that the show was cancelled because of the former boxer’s skin bleaching, with photos of his light skin and bleached eyelashes igniting fire on social media, which was giving GHOne negative publicity.

Bukom Banku has now come out to confirm the rumours following his admission on UTV cooking show.

Bukom Banku has since stopped bleaching his skin after receiving advice.

Some Ghanaians have reacted to the video saying, “ People who live their lives without causes and effects they vex me. Use freedom with Sense. Its that simple to be honest” .

“Your body, your choice, but the business owner has no decision on his business!!!! Nsem hunu !!!”, another netizen added.

In related news, Bukom Banku has also cautioned boxers against smoking, alcoholism and womanising.

He urged young boxers not to joke with boxing because it is serious business.

Speaking to The Times Sports, he stated, “With boxing, if you smoke, engage in alcoholism and womanising, you cannot fight and become a world champion.”

“If you smoke, drink, and womanise, you cannot fight even if Jesus comes. To take your craft to the next level, desist from all of these,” he cautioned.

Watch the video below:

Labone ranked among top ten coolest neighbourhoods in the World

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Ghana’s Labone in Accra has been ranked among Time Out’s top 10 coolest neighbourhoods in the world for 2025.

Labone was ranked the 10th in the world as the coolest neighbourhoods in the World in 2025.

Time Out has described Labone as a sleepy residential neighbourhood with not much more to offer than bungalows and mango trees into a vibrant area that now offers much more.

Time Out’s rankings and report published on September 24, 2025, described Labone as offering entertainment and relaxation not just for locals, but also for diasporans.

The area is home, providing a plethora of happy-hour pubs, galleries, wine bars, and high-end shops.

Labone overtook South Africa’s Johannesburg, which was ranked 17th.

Times Out in an article describes Labone as, “Labone was once a quiet, family-oriented neighbourhood, where everyone knew their neighbour from cradle to grave. It’s still a community-centered place, but its trademark colonial-era bungalows and single-storey houses have recently given way to sky-high ultra-modern apartment complexes with elevators, balconies and rooftop terraces.

With that came culture, nightlife and great food and drink, and Labone today is easily one of Accra’s buzziest areas. Ready to take a big bite? Here’s what to see, eat, drink and do in Labone, Accra right now”.

Leading Time Out’s rankings is Jimbōchō in Tokyo, Japan, named the coolest neighbourhood in the world for 2025.

Followed by Borgerhout in Antwerp, Belgium, in second place; Barra Funda in São Paulo, Brazil, in third; Camberwell in London, United Kingdom, in fourth; and Avondale in Chicago, United States, in fifth.

Mullae-dong in Seoul, South Korea, takes sixth place; Ménilmontant in Paris, France, seventh; Nakatsu in Osaka, Japan, eighth; and Vallila in Helsinki, Finland, ninth.

In another positive news for Ghana, Ghana’s currency, the cedi, has been ranked the 4th strongest in Africa by Forbes.

The recent data from the Forbes currency calculator indicates that the Ghana cedi gained 21% against the Dollar in September, according to a new Forbes ranking.

The Tunisian dinar leads the ranking for the month, followed by the Libyan dinar in second place and the Moroccan dirham in third place.

See the full ranking below:

Suspect involved in AI-generated investment scam attributed to Ibrahim Mahama busted – Special aide

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Rafik Mahama, special aide to businessman and CEO of Engineers & Planners Ltd & Dzata Cement Ltd, Ibrahim Mahama, has warned the Ghanaians to disregard fake AI-generated investment schemes attributed to his boss.

According to Rafik Mahama, a key suspect has been arrested and has been processed for court by the Police Cybercrime Unit.

He added that Mr Ibrahim Mahama is not involved in any form of investment scheme or cryptocurrency trading, or business dealings anywhere.

Rafik Mahama revealed that steps are being taken to report the videos to the relevant state authorities to deal with them decisively.

In a Facebook post, the special aide to Mr Ibrahim Mahama stated, “The public is hereby put on notice to disregard the AI-generated videos being circulated by faceless people or sources about Mr Ibrahim Mahama being engaged in any form of investment scheme or cryptocurrency trading.

Mr Ibrahim Mahama is not involved in any form of investment scheme or cryptocurrency trading, or business dealings anywhere. As stated in our previous disclaimers on similar activities by scammers, the videos are fake and should be disregarded”.

His statement added, “Steps have been taken to report the videos to the relevant state authorities to deal with them decisively. A key suspect has been arrested and has been processed for court by the Police Cybercrime Unit.

Additionally, the public should disregard any FACEBOOK and TikTok accounts created using the image and name of Mr Ibrahim Mahama. Mr Ibrahim Mahama (CEO, Engineers & Planners Ltd & Dzata Cement Ltd) is not on FACEBOOK and TikTok. He’s available on his verified Instagram and X account”.

In related scam news, the Cybercrime Unit of the Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service has busted ten suspects for allegedly creating fake online food delivery platforms.

On 1st October 2025, the police operation led to the arrest of three male and three female suspects.

Six suspects named Wonder Sakpiti, Sedinam Amaglo, Godsway Dunyo, Angela Agblemekpe, Mathew Aheto, and Fafali Amoah were arrested.

The police’s preliminary investigations showed the suspect created fake social media accounts and a website to impersonate Papaye, Pizzaman, KFC, and Mawarko.

Victims on the fake platforms are directed to make payment via mobile money, after which they never receive their food.

The police further revealed that the suspects sometimes gain unauthorised access to victims’ mobile money wallets and bank accounts, claiming to help them and dupe them of their funds.

On October 12, 2025, a subsequent investigation led to the arrest of the main leader and three others in Haatso in Accra.

The suspect has been identified as Elijah Sotama Etse, alias Pop Smoke (the syndicate leader), Elliot Sotama Atsu, Jethro Atsu, and Obed Selasi Agboli.

According to the police, twelve mobile phones were retrieved, and other Digital devices used in the fraudulent activities were retrieved and are undergoing forensic examination.

Meanwhile, all ten suspects are in police custody and will be processed in court on Monday, 13th October 2025.

See the post below:

Gov’t to cover GH₵500 of the amount charged per dialysis session at private health facilities – Health Minister

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Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Minister of Health, has revealed that the government will extend its subsidy of dialysis to private health facilities.

According to the Health Minister, the development comes after President John Mahama directed that the government’s dialysis subsidy be extended to private health facilities.

Speaking at the inauguration of a 13-member governing board for the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, also known as “Mahama Cares”, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh stated, “The current arrangement for payment of dialysis is that if you go to public health facilities, we have a maximum amount of money we pay per session—that’s around 499, something about 500 Ghana cedis.

What we have realised is that there are people who also go to private facilities, and so, it’s a necessity; the President has directed us to give what is paid to the public facilities,” he explained.

He further detailed, “So, for example, if you go to private facility A and they are charging you 1,000 Ghana cedis, the government will pay the 500 Ghana cedis, and you top up, to be fair to everybody. So, the CEO for the National Health Insurance has been directed accordingly to take up that challenge”.

“And finally, to also add my voice to the appeal the chairman made to corporate Ghana. We cannot do it all alone. It is the partnership between the government and corporate Ghana that will take us far. There are other corporate bodies who have come on board, like Telecel Group of Companies, and there are some banks as well,” he said.

In related health news, the Minister of Health has announced that unpaid junior doctors will be migrated to the public payroll.

He made this announcement, revealing that the government had secured clearance and commenced the migration of hundreds of unpaid junior doctors.

According to the Health Minister,  the Junior doctors started their work without clearance.

Speaking to the media in Accra on Monday, October 13, Mr Akandoh stated, “You recently heard some junior doctors threatening to go on strike. They had started work without clearance, without salaries, without pay”.

“Again, we collaborated with the Ministry of Finance, and as I speak to you now, we have succeeded in getting them clearance, and they are being migrated onto the payroll”, he added.

Also, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh further announced that the cabinet has given the green light for the payment of 13,500 unpaid nurses, midwives.

The Health Minister further announced that the government will start paying all nurses and midwives owed salary arrears from November.

According to him, the Cabinet has approved that the finance minister immediately pay 13,500 nurses and midwives starting from November.

Mr Akandoh detailed, “As I speak to you now, about 6,500, that will add up to the 7,000 already being paid, making 13,500; that’s a lot, that’s over 6,000. The Cabinet has approved that with immediate effect. Starting from November, the Minister for Finance must pay them. And I have in my hand the letter to that effect”

“And so these were the difficulties. I empathise with anybody who has had to go through this painful situation. And it is important for Ghanaians to be taken care of,” he added.

He further revealed that he has secured financial clearance for the payment of some 17,909 nurses, midwives, and allied health interns who started their national service in early 2024.

Speaking to the media in Accra on Monday, October 13, Mr Akandoh detailed, “Financial clearance secured for payment of the 17,909 nurses, midwives, and allied health interns who started their national service in early 2024. Financial clearance secured for 13,500 recruited and posted late last year [2024], with their financial clearance expiring by 31st December 2024”.

“The Ministry is putting in place measures as part of a broader agenda to strengthen Ghana’s health system and ensure the welfare of its workforce,” he stated.

“I am confident a woman will be President of Ghana” – Mahama boldly predicts

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President John Dramani Mahama has confidently stated, Ghana will soon have its first female President.

According to John Mahama, he is confident that women will break the glass ceiling for Ghana to have its first female president.

President Mahama further detailed that Ghana has taken steps to integrate gender perspectives into all national development policies.

Speaking at the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women in Beijing, China, on Monday, October 13, John Mahama stated, “In my capacity as the African Union champion for gender and women’s empowerment, the government of Ghana has continued to take decisive steps to mainstream gender across our national development policies.

We’ve achieved historic milestones, including the election of Ghana’s first female vice president and the unprecedented appointment of women to leadership positions in government- the judiciary, the security services, and key national institutions.

“These are not just symbolic gestures. They are affirmations that women deserve a seat at the table of the highest levels of decision-making. And I am confident that in the very near future, our women will break the glass ceiling and [there] will be a woman president of the Republic of Ghana,” he said.

President Mahama also called on world leaders and development partners to take transformative steps to advance women’s empowerment and gender equality.

He highlighted that when women succeed, nations progress.

John Mahama stated, “The African woman is particularly vulnerable, and I wish to use this platform to call on my colleague African leaders to focus on the welfare and empowerment of our women”.

 “When women succeed, families thrive, communities become stronger, and nations progress. As we look to Beijing, I call on all governments and partners to move beyond platitudes and commit towards transformative action,” he said.

Meanwhile, Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister of Education, has once again reiterated that Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang can assume the high office of president.

According to Haruna Iddrisu, Professor Jane Naana is a strong and indisputable candidate to become Ghana’s first female President.

The Education Minister expressed his confidence in the Vice President’s leadership abilities, affirming that she is well-qualified to lead the nation.

Speaking at the Ghana Teacher Prize event, held at the University of Health and Allied Sciences on October 5, Haruna Iddrisu stated, “There were many of you who sought to give it your own interpretation. Prof Jane, I am reminding them that my mother taught me that sometimes silence is golden because silence cannot be interpreted, but this one I wanted an interpretation because a vice president irrefutably is a presumption that she can assume the high office of president, irrefutably,” he stated.

Haruna Iddrisu’s remarks follow an earlier comment he made when Prof Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang paid an official visit to the Ministry of Education on September 24, 2025.

Haruna Iddrisu told the Vice President, Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, that it is his prayer that God gives her a long life and health to one day become Ghana’s first female President.

According to Haruna Iddrisu, Prof Jane Naana’s elevation to the second-highest office of the land is a milestone for women in leadership.

He further acknowledged Prof Jane Naana’s lifelong commitment to education, as well as her advocacy for gender equality and inclusivity.

Haruna Iddrisu stated, “It is my pride and honour to welcome you back to the Ministry of Education, this time in an elevated capacity as the first female Vice President of our Republic.

It is my prayer that God will give you long life and good health…that probably you will be elevated to become the first female President. May Allah grant you the strength”, he added.

Haruna Iddrisu further labelled Prof Jane Naan as “champion of education, gender rights, gender interests and inclusiveness in the pursuit of government policy”.

He further recounted his long-standing working relationship with the Vice President and recalled a covenant they had shared over the years in improving education and gender-focused programs.

Watch the video below:

10 fake social media account operators arrested 

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Cybercrime Unit of the Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service has busted ten suspects for allegedly creating fake online food delivery platforms.

On 1st October 2025, the police operation led to the arrest of three male and three female suspects.

Six suspects named Wonder Sakpiti, Sedinam Amaglo, Godsway Dunyo, Angela Agblemekpe, Mathew Aheto, and Fafali Amoah were arrested.

The police’s preliminary investigations showed the suspect created fake social media accounts and a website to impersonate Papaye, Pizzaman, KFC, and Mawarko.

Victims on the fake platforms are directed to make payment via mobile money, after which they never receive their food.

The police further revealed that the suspects sometimes gain unauthorised access to victims’ mobile money wallets and bank accounts, claiming to help them and dupe them of their funds.

On October 12, 2025, a subsequent investigation led to the arrest of the main leader and three others in Haatso in Accra.

The suspect has been identified as Elijah Sotama Etse, alias Pop Smoke (the syndicate leader), Elliot Sotama Atsu, Jethro Atsu, and Obed Selasi Agboli.

According to the police, twelve mobile phones were retrieved, and other Digital devices used in the fraudulent activities were retrieved and are undergoing forensic examination.

Meanwhile, all ten suspects are in police custody and will be processed in court on Monday, 13th October 2025.

In related news, the Eastern South Regional Police Command has arrested two suspects for allegedly plotting to assassinate a chief at Akyem Kwabeng in the Eastern Region.

The two suspects have been identified as Emelia Akua Asor and Butuakwa Seth.

They were apprehended in an intelligence-led operation after police uncovered a plan to eliminate the chief ahead of his first Royal Durbar slated for October 17, 2025.

According to the Police, Emelia Akua Asor allegedly offered GHC 50,000 to undercover officers to carry out the killing of the chief and another woman said to be in line for installation as Queen Mother.

Emelia Akua Asor also instructed her accomplice, Butuakwa Seth, to help identify the victims’ residences.

Seth reportedly led the officers to the homes of the intended victims and provided a photograph of the chief to aid the plot.

The suspects allegedly promised an additional GHC 50,000 upon completion of the crime.

Both suspects are currently in police custody, assisting investigations and will be arraigned before the court.

The Eastern South Police Regional command wrote, “The Eastern South Regional Police Command has arrested two suspects for allegedly plotting to assassinate a Chief in the Eastern Region.

The suspects, identified as Emelia Akua Asor and Butuakwa Seth, were arrested following an intelligence-led operation. Their arrests followed the uncovering of a plan to eliminate the Chief ahead of his first Royal Durbar scheduled for 17th October 2025 at Akyem Kwabeng”.

The statement further detailed, “Acting on intelligence received on 11th October 2025, a police intelligence team infiltrated the suspects’ network. During the operation, suspect Emelia Akua Asor offered GHC 50,000.00 to undercover officers to kill the Chief and another woman, alleged to be lined up for installation as Queen Mother. She further instructed suspect Butuakwa Seth to assist in identifying the residences of the intended victims.

Suspect Butuakwa Seth led the officers to the homes of the Chief and the woman and provided a photograph of the Chief to facilitate the planned act. The suspects also promised an additional GHC 50,000.00 upon completion of the crime”.

Cabinet gives green light for the payment of 13,500 unpaid nurses, midwives – Health Minister

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Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has announced that the cabinet has given the green light for the payment of 13,500 unpaid nurses, midwives.

The Health Minister further announced that the government will start paying all nurses and midwives owed salary arrears from November.

According to him, the Cabinet has approved that the finance minister immediately pay 13,500 nurses and midwives starting from November.

Speaking to the media in Accra on Monday, October 13, Mr Akandoh detailed, “As I speak to you now, about 6,500, that will add up to the 7,000 already being paid, making 13,500; that’s a lot, that’s over 6,000. The Cabinet has approved that with immediate effect. Starting from November, the Minister for Finance must pay them. And I have in my hand the letter to that effect”

“And so these were the difficulties. I empathise with anybody who has had to go through this painful situation. And it is important for Ghanaians to be taken care of,” he added.

He further revealed that he has secured financial clearance for the payment of some 17,909 nurses, midwives, and allied health interns who started their national service in early 2024.

Mr Akandoh detailed, “Financial clearance secured for payment of the 17,909 nurses, midwives, and allied health interns who started their national service in early 2024. Financial clearance secured for 13,500 recruited and posted late last year [2024], with their financial clearance expiring by 31st December 2024”.

“The Ministry is putting in place measures as part of a broader agenda to strengthen Ghana’s health system and ensure the welfare of its workforce,” he stated.

This news comes after the  Coalition of Unpaid Nurses and Midwives on Thursday, October 2, 2025, staged a protest to demand their salary arrears owed by the government.

According to the nurses and midwives, about 7,000 of them have been working without salaries for the past nine to 10 months.

Speaking to the media, the unpaid nurse stated, “May God punish any government and its entire generation that leaves nurses’ salaries unpaid and causes nurses to resort to prostitution for money”.

Another protesting nurse also warned the John Mahama-NDC government that a hungry nurse is a potential killer.

According to the nurse, the government must pay them now, as enough is enough.

He emphasised that to be a nurse in Ghana is not a crime and that Ghanaian nurses deserve better.

The nurse speaking to the media during the protest demanded, “A hungry nurse is a potential killer. Pay us now, we are dying. A hungry nurse is a potential killer. Pay us now, enough is enough. Is it a crime to be a nurse in Ghana? Nurses deserve better. Enough is enough”.

Additionally, a teary nurse has broken down as she recounted how she has not been paid for the past 10 months despite the hard work and stress of her job at the Korle Bu hospital.

The nurse revealed that her situation has become dire, with her rent due and no means to pay.

Speaking in a viral video, the teary nurse stated, “We are just pleading with the government to pay us, we have been working for ten good months without salaries. Personally, my rent expired in August, and I have not been able to pay. My landlord is always asking When are you going to pay?

I have been asking for time. I stay at Pentang and I work in Korle Bu, I take transportation for 42 cedis to work every day. How do they expect me to get that money to come to work?”

She further added, “I am doing my work at the Hospital, just for the minister to tell me he appreciates what I am doing, what kind of appreciation, which form of appreciation. How can somebody work for ten good months, and you tell the person you appreciate them?

I cannot stand it, I am owing rent, what should I do to be able to pay my rent, they should pay us enough, it’s enough. You cannot even ask somebody for money the moment you text the person, they think you are coming to beg”.

Her experience reflects the plight of several newly recruited nurses and midwives, who today staged a protest against the government over 10 months of unpaid salaries.

Unpaid junior doctors to be migrated to the payroll – Health Minister announces

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The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has announced that unpaid junior doctors will be migrated to the public payroll.

He made this announcement, revealing that the government had secured clearance and commenced the migration of hundreds of unpaid junior doctors.

According to the Health Minister,  the Junior doctors started their work without clearance.

Speaking to the media in Accra on Monday, October 13, Mr Akandoh stated, “You recently heard some junior doctors threatening to go on strike. They had started work without clearance, without salaries, without pay”.

“Again, we collaborated with the Ministry of Finance, and as I speak to you now, we have succeeded in getting them clearance, and they are being migrated onto the payroll”, he added.

The news comes following the Junior Doctors’ Association of Ghana (JDA-GH) announcement that they have halted plans for a withdrawal of services.

Their moves follow a renewed engagement with the Ministry of Health and key stakeholders.

On October 2, 2025, in a statement signed by its President, Dr Louisa Afia Nkrumah, and General Secretary, Dr Rhoda Wun-nam Amadu, revealed that the unpaid salaries are affecting more than 200 junior doctors.

Also, delaying the posting of 800 medical officers.

Part of the Junior Doctors’ Association read, “Despite goodwill shown towards the government, no solutions have been offered. The continued exploitation of junior doctors will no longer be tolerated”.

The statement announced that all outpatient services will be withdrawn from October 7 to 9, and on Friday, October 10, emergency services will also be withdrawn until further notice.

The Junior Doctors’ Association further blamed the Ministry of Health and the Government of Ghana for any disruption of healthcare services that their action will cause and called for swift action.

However, in a press release dated Monday, October 6, the Junior Doctors’ Association of Ghana (JDA-GH) announced a halt to the nationwide withdrawal of services.

The statement signed by President, Dr Louisa Afia Nkrumah, and General Secretary, Dr Rhoda Wun-nam Amadu, alluded that their decision is a “gesture of goodwill and in the interest of uninterrupted healthcare delivery.”

“The suspension allows the government the opportunity to implement its commitments,” the statement read. “The association will closely monitor progress on these matters. Should there be delays or failure to honour the agreed timelines, the JDA-GH will have no option but to reinstate industrial action without notice.”

Financial clearance secured for 17,909 nurses, midwives, and allied health interns – Health Minister

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Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Minister for Health, has revealed he has secured financial clearance for the payment of some 17,909 nurses, midwives, and allied health interns who started their national service in early 2024.

Speaking to the media in Accra on Monday, October 13, Mr Akandoh detailed, “Financial clearance secured for payment of the 17,909 nurses, midwives, and allied health interns who started their national service in early 2024. Financial clearance secured for 13,500 recruited and posted late last year [2024], with their financial clearance expiring by 31st December 2024”.

“The Ministry is putting in place measures as part of a broader agenda to strengthen Ghana’s health system and ensure the welfare of its workforce,” he stated.

The Health Minister further announced that the government will start paying all nurses and midwives owed salary arrears from November.

According to him, the Cabinet has approved that the finance minister immediately pay 13,500 nurses and midwives starting from November.

Mintah Akandoh added, “As I speak to you now, about 6,500, that will add up to the 7,000 already being paid, making 13,500; that’s a lot, that’s over 6,000. The Cabinet has approved that with immediate effect. Starting from November, the Minister for Finance must pay them. And I have in my hand the letter to that effect”

“And so these were the difficulties. I empathise with anybody who has had to go through this painful situation. And it is important for Ghanaians to be taken care of,” he added.

In related news, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Health Minister, has urged the Ghana Health Service to temper justice with mercy in addressing a query issued to staff nurse Bernice Aboagye over alleged unprofessional comments.

Bernice Aboagye received a queired letter from Dr Samuel Freeman Mensah, Medical Superintendent at the Ghana Health Service, on October 10, 2025.

The GHS in its query to the nurse demanded that she respond by October 24, 2025 explain her actions.

“Use of unacceptable and inappropriate words resulting in a rude behaviour towards the Honourable Minister for Health, contrary to Section 8.1(c) of the code of conduct and disciplinary procedures.

Use of abusive language on the Honourable Minister of Health is contrary to Section 8, 1 (1) of the Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedures.

Tarnishing the corporate image of the Service and bringing the name of the service into disrepute, contrary to Section 4.1 (d) of the Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedures”.

However, in a statement signed by Tony Goodman, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, detailed that the Minister has requested that the nurse be pardoned.

In the statement, Tony Goodman wrote, “The Ministry of Health has taken notice of a query letter issued to MS. Bernice Aboagye, a Staff Nurse, which has been circulating on social media regarding certain unprofessional comments allegedly made against the Minister for Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh.

The Minister commends the Ghana Health Service for promptly upholding the tenets of professionalism and the Code of Conduct prescribed for health workers

 However, Hon. Akandoh has appealed to the Service to temper justice with mercy in addressing the matter. According to him, both he and the government welcome divergent views and constructive criticism as part of his commitment to fostering tolerance and openness to diverse opinions”.

The statement further urged, “all health workers to express their opinions responsibly and respectfully, without resorting to insults, as this contributes to the healthy growth and development of the health sector.

The Ministry wishes to emphasise that it has no objection to demonstrations, as they are legitimate expressions of frustration and a constitutional right of every citizen. However, the Ministry will not condone the use of abusive language or acts of indiscipline during such demonstrations.”

“We’re coming to support the Black Stars and not to run away” – Obour boldly tells Donald Trump

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Ghanaian football fan Obour has sent a message to US President Donald Trump following the Black Stars securing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

According to Obour, Ghanaians are coming to support the Blackstars to victory in the United States, but not to run.

Speaking to the media, the Ghanaian football fan stated, “Donald Trump should be careful, my message gives it to Donald Trump, his dream of Ghana and Nigeria not qualifying, he should take out the Nigerians, we Ghanaians are coming.

We are coming to America, we are not coming to run, we are coming to support the Black Stars. We are coming to support our team to go forward”.

He added, “So, we are not thinking about America or Donald Trump; we are thinking about the Ghana Black Stars to bring the World Cup back home.

Meanwhile, the Black Stars yesterday, 12 October 2025, officially qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after finishing the qualifiers as leaders in their Group.  

Ghana defeated Comoros 1-0 at the Accra Sports Stadium, with Mohammed Kudus scoring the only goal in the game.

After 10 games in group I, the Black Stars topped the table with 25 points, Madagascar second with 19 points, Mali third with 18 points, Comoros 15, Central African Republic 8 and Chad in sixth place with 1.

Ghana joined the list of qualified countries on the African continent, with Coach Otto Addo now becoming the first Black Stars coach to reach two consecutive FIFA World Cup tournaments.

Also, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, has promised Ghanaians football fans he will guarantee Ghana is given an appreciable visa quota for football fans to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In a post on social media, Ablakwa congratulated the Black Stars on Ghana’s emphatic 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification.

He wrote, “Congratulations to the Black Stars on Ghana’s emphatic 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification.

Ghanaians can be fully assured that the Foreign Ministry under my leadership shall leverage our improved cordial diplomatic relations with the United States, Canada and Mexico to guarantee appreciable visa quotas for our globally acclaimed football fans.

GHANA, here we come!”.

Meanwhile, some Ghanaians have reacted to Obour’s comments, saying, “I believe that’s Obour; his visa is secured. He has been supporting and travelling with the Black Stars for many years and is one of the pioneers in body painting the Ghana flag at the stadium”.

“The way you’ll all be disappointed when your group stage matches are put in Mexico or Canada eer”, one more netizen added.

One more netizen added, “You Dey challenge person wey go grant you access into ein house ei…s3 “ should have it in mind” ei”

Another netizen added, “Three countries host the World Cup: Mexico, America and Canada, and what if Ghana plays its group matches in Mexico, let us wait till December for the group chat to come out..if we play in America, I can host two people”

Watch the video below:

“I shall guarantee appreciable visa quotas for our football fans” – Ablakwa vows  

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Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, has promised Ghanaians football fans he will guarantee Ghana is given an appreciable visa quota for football fans to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Black Stars yesterday, 12 October 2025, officially qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after finishing the qualifiers as leaders in their Group.  

Ghana defeated Comoros 1-0 at the Accra Sports Stadium, with Mohammed Kudus scoring the only goal in the game.

After 10 games in group I, the Black Stars topped the table with 25 points, Madagascar second with 19 points, Mali third with 18 points, Comoros 15, Central African Republic 8 and Chad in sixth place with 1.

Ghana joined the list of qualified countries on the African continent, with Coach Otto Addo now becoming the first Black Stars coach to reach two consecutive FIFA World Cup tournaments.

Reacting to Ghana’s qualification, Ablakwa, in a post on X, congratulated the Black Stars on Ghana’s emphatic 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification.

He wrote, “Congratulations to the Black Stars on Ghana’s emphatic 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification.

Ghanaians can be fully assured that the Foreign Ministry under my leadership shall leverage our improved cordial diplomatic relations with the United States, Canada and Mexico to guarantee appreciable visa quotas for our globally acclaimed football fans.

GHANA, here we come!”.

Some Ghanaians have reacted to Ablakwa’s comments, saying, “Maa shaa Allah ! I pray I get to be part of those travelling to support our gallant Black Stars.  At least getting that experience of travelling outside the country for the first time won’t be bad”.

“The workaholic Foreign Minister.  God Bless you for your dedicated service to your country”, another netizen wrote.

“Warn participants any attempt fraudulently receive Canadian Visa in the name of  coming and applying for  refugee claim will end up sleeping on the street  and freeze to dealt .Canada immigration officials!!”, one more X user added.

Also, the Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) has congratulated the Black Stars of Ghana for qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino, in a viral video, stated, “Congratulations to the Black Stars on reaching the FIFA World Cup for the fifth time in history. Your fans will bring colours, style and passion to the greatest FIFA World Cup ever in 20226 in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

“We expect that your team will establish more global stars to follow in the footsteps of the famous team that made the quarterfinals of the tournament in South Africa in 2010, but for now, enjoy this special moment, and we cannot wait to see who the Black Stars will face when we have the final tournament draw on the 5th of December.

“See you very soon and well. Congratulations!”, he added.

See the post below:

“Any day you want to lie, lie intelligently” – Prophet ElBernard slams Ofosu Nkansah

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The Senior Pastor of Spiritlife Revival Ministries, Prophet Bernard ElBernard Nelson-Eshun, has slammed Kofi Ofosu Nkansah, the former National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) boss.

According to Prophet ElBernard, Kofi Ofosu Nkansah has been spreading lies regarding one of his prophecies.

He cited Kofi Ofosu Nkansah’s post he shared on social media, claiming he had prophesied that the team of Kwasi Kwarteng, the spokesperson of Kennedy Agyapong, would win the next presidential election.

Speaking to his congregation on Sunday, October 12, 2025, Prophet ElBernard stated, “Before we continue the service, I want to talk to the former Chief Executive of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme. He was in the Akufo-Addo Administration, Kofi Ofosu Nkansah.

“He put my picture and that of Kennedy Agyapong on his page, and he lied that I have prophesied that Kwasi Kwarteng will win the last election… Honourable, if you want to lie, lie intelligently,” he said.

He further added, “Any day you want to lie, lie intelligently, because someone like me, I won’t mind them. But someone like you, I would mind you.

“I prophesy. Not everyone must believe what I say. If you lie and I think I have your time, I’ll respond,” he reiterated.

Meanwhile, Renowned Ghanaian Prophet Telvin Sowah has said the former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong can never become president of Ghana.

According to the Prophet, Kennedy Agyapong will not win the NPP’s presidential primary on January 31.

He highlighted that after the presidential primaries, Kennedy Agyapong’s camp will be claiming victory, but at 11, they will know they have lost.

Speaking on Accra FM in a video shared on TikTok, Prophet Telvin Sowah detailed, They will start the election before the counting starts, less than 10 minutes, and they will declare they have won it, Kennedy Agyapong people. Everybody will be like Kennedy Agyapong has won by 11, the votes are coming in, and then he is far gone.

It will not be a loss; it will be very humiliating, the people will take the first step, the praises will start too early, so when it shuts down, there will be nothing”.

He further prophesies that the NPP in 2028 will garner 44 per cent of votes, with the NDC winning by 53 per cent.

“NPP presidential results 2028, 44 per cent is already sealed, and even the 44 per cent they got NDC is for 53 per cent. The 44 per cent they got is because of Cheddar”, he added.

Prophet Telvin Sowah further added that Nana Kwame Bediako of the New Force will one day become Ghana’s president.

“Nana Kwame Bediako will become the president of Ghana; it is merged in time, Kennedy Agyapong will team up with Alan Kyeremanten to shake the NPP for 2032 and in that condition, they will still lose the elections”.

Even if Kennedy Agyapong wins the flagbearer elections, he will still not get up to 36 per cent of the total vote. There is no possibility of a time when Ken became a running mate and they went for the election; it does not exist in time. But in the original space of the timeline, there is no possibility that Kennedy Agyapong will win the election; it is done and dusted. He will not win the flagbearership election, so he will not be able to contest for the election”, the man of God highlighted

Watch the video below:

“How is Ken Ofori-Atta still roaming the streets of America?” – OSP quizzed

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Abraham Koomson, the Secretary General of the Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL), has quizzed the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) on how the former finance minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, is still roaming the streets of America despite being declared wanted.

According to Abraham Koomson, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) must sit up as it is baffling and disappointing that Ofori-Atta, who has been declared a fugitive, continues to move freely in the United States.

Mr Koomson warned the OSP that selective or inconsistent enforcement would erode public trust in Ghana’s anti-corruption institutions.

Speaking on Ahotor FM on Abraham Koomson stated, “If someone is truly declared wanted, will he have the freedom to roam the streets of America? The OSP has said this man is wanted. Even though he is not guilty yet, he must return and testify. I will call on the OSP to sit up”.

“The OSP must show seriousness and fairness in its work. Ghanaians are watching, and confidence in our justice system depends on equal treatment for everyone,” he added.

His comments come after Ken Ofori-Atta was spotted on the streets of the United States walking with his wife, Professor Angela Ofori-Atta.

Ken Ofori-Atta was on the left, wearing a black suit jacket, white shirt, black trousers, and carrying a light-coloured backpack, with his wife wearing a dark outfit.

According to reports, the photo of Ofori-Atta and his wife was taken in the United States.

It will be recalled that the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), Kissi Agyebeng, declared Ken Ofori-Atta a fugitive for failing to appear for interrogation into corruption-related investigations.

Ken Ofori Atta has been accused of causing financial loss to the state in several dealings, including the construction of the famous National Cathedral and Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA’s) – Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd (SML), Termination of a contract between the Electricity Company of Ghana Limited and Beijing Xiao Cheng Technology (BXC) for the Distribution and Ambulance Procurement: A Ministry of Health contract with Service Ghana Auto Group Limited.

Kissi Agyebeng, in a press conference, stated, “On 24th January 2025, the OSP communicated to Mr Ofori-Atta that the OSP considered him a suspect, in respect to four of the cases described above. Mr Ofori-Atta was directed to attend in person at OSP on Monday, 10th February 2025, at 10GMT for an interview”.

By communication dated 31 January 2025, Mr Ofori-Atta instructed his lawyers to inform the OSP that he was out of the jurisdiction indefinitely on medical grounds and that the firm would notify the OSP of his arrival in the country in need of rescheduling his personal attendance at the OSP.

Further, the firm offered its willingness to provide the OSP with any information the OSP may require,” he noted.

“The fugitive’s name is Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori Atta. Mr Ofori-Atta is 66 years old. He was the minister of Finance of the republic between 2017 and 2024. Mr Ofori-Atta left the jurisdiction on or around 2 January 2025. On 24th January 2025, the OSP communicated to Mr Ofori-Atta that the OSP considered him a suspect in respect to four of the cases above. Mr Ofori-Atta was asked to attend in person on Monday, 10th February 2025, at 10GMT for an interview…Mr Ofori-Atta instructed his lawyers to inform the OSP that he was out of the jurisdiction indefinitely on medical grounds…”

On June 13, 2025, Mayo Clinic in the United States revealed Ken Ofori-Atta has been diagnosed with prostate cancer and is expected to undergo surgery on June 13, 2025.

The wife, Prof. Mrs Angela Ofori-Atta, in the statement dated June 16, 2025, explained that Mr Ofori-Atta successfully underwent the surgery for prostate cancer at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, on Friday, June 13, and lasted over four hours.

“The doctors are pleased with how the procedure went and will now place him on a postoperative regime,” she added.

“Kenneth has always been resilient. But this has been very difficult; with the OSP choosing the period just before his surgery to declare a red alert on him,” she said.

She further gave a possible timeline by which her husband would be able to honour the invitation by the Special Prosecutor to appear before his outfit in person.

According to Prof Mrs Angela Ofori-Atta, after a successful surgery on June 13, Mr Ofori-Atta would require about 3 months to recover fully.

Mr Ofori-Atta failed to appear before the OSP for an investigative interview scheduled for Monday, June 2, 2025.

The OSP later issued a notice placing Ken Ofori-Atta on the INTERPOL Red Alert Notice database, but despite the notice, the former finance minister is still at large.

Video – Adom Kyei-Duah distributes GHS51m to church members

Stephen Adom Kyei-Duah, the founder and General Overseer of the Believers Worship Centre, popularly known as Philadelphia Church, has distributed GHS51 million (over $4.1 million) to about 20,000 church members.

In a viral video shared on X, the GHS51 million was displayed on a table in the church, being distributed to Church members.

The Church members were later captured dancing and waving the money they received as they expressed excitement and gratitude to Stephen Adom Kyei-Duah.

Some netizens have reacted to the video saying, “This is why the pastors hate him, o cos they will never do the same. He doesn’t take tithe, no seed, no pastor’s appreciation. He just sells prayer materials and uses the proceeds to build his church and God’s work. He doesn’t put a burden on his members to build a church for him”.

“One of the few churches I would never have any problem with members sowing huge sums of money, coz in the end it’s the same members that benefit from it. He dey try for the members waa”, another Ghanaian wrote.

An X user also wrote, “Any serious country, this man should be invited to EOCO tomorrow morning to prove proof of funds along with tax documents but hey, who cares in Ghana right?”.

Additionally, a netizen wrote, “When pastors take collection, he’s a thief. When they shared money with church members, he’s a fake, and people are asking EOCO to conduct an investigation into the source of the money.

Ah, well, that money is too much to be displayed in front of the camera, which needs to be questioned since it is against the Ghanaian constitution”.

In related news, Godsbrain Smart Nkansah, popularly known as Captain Smart, has quizzed Prophet Stephen Adom Kyei Duah, the founder of Believers Worship Centre, on why he will be selling Yesu Mogya in church.

Captain Smart noted that Adom Kyei Duah is exploiting his congregation for profit by selling ‘Yesu Mogya’ in church.

He highlighted that the man of God is doing business in his church and must be taxed by the government.

Captain Smart further recounted how a woman who was suffering from high blood pressure abandoned her prescribed medication to rely on ‘Yesu Mogya’ for miraculous healing.

According to Captain Smart, if he were president, such acts would not be tolerated.

He argued that religious leaders who profit from their congregations under the guise of spirituality should be held accountable.

Speaking on his show Onua Maakye, Captain Smart stated, “Physically, Adom Kyei-Duah is older than me, but spiritually, he knows I’m older. How can you be selling Yesu Mogya in church? There’s a woman I knew who was a BP patient. Instead of her taking her medicine, she was taking Yesu Mogya.

“If I were president of Ghana, this nonsense wouldn’t be allowed. Nobody would be able to sell oil in church. If a pastor sold ‘Yesu Mogya’ during services, I would treat it like a business and make them pay tax,” Captain Smart stated.

Watch the video below:

Tragic – Volta Lake boat disaster claims 15 lives

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A tragic Volta Lake boat disaster has claimed the lives of 15 mourners.

Reports suggest the tragic incident happened at the Krachi West District of the Oti Region when the canon capsized on Saturday, October 11, 2025.

According to eyewitnesses, the victims were heading to a funeral when water began seeping into the canoe between Okuma-Akura and Debume.  

The Assembly Member for the area revealed that about 21 people were on board at the time.

Fifteen of the twenty-one people have been confirmed dead, while six others were rescued and taken to the hospital for treatment.

Reports suggest the survivors have since been discharged.

The tragic incident has plunged the entire community into mourning.

However, it has been alleged that the  canoe was being operated by a 14-year-old boy

Meanwhile, the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has confirmed that 15 lives have been lost in a tragic boat accident near Kete Krachi on Saturday, October 11.

According to the Ghana Maritime Authority, of the 15 lives, 11 of them are children aged between 2 and 14.

The GMA described the incident as heartbreaking and extended its deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the Kete Krachi community.

The Ghana Maritime Authority, in a statement dated October 12, 2025, issued on Sunday evening, stated, “most heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the Kete Krachi community, who are enduring an unimaginable loss. The sheer number of young lives cut short leaves an indelible pain on the heart of the nation.

 The GMA reaffirms its unwavering commitment to improving and strictly enforcing safe water transport across all communities along the Volta Lake”. 

We appeal to every citizen, community elder, and family member living along the lakeshore to act as vigilant custodians of safety— do not board any boat

that is visibly overloaded or lacks lifejackets. Your vigilance and refusal could save lives, especially those of children. 

The GMA remains resolute to unravelling the root causes of this disaster and implementing measures to ensure that no such tragedy ever occurs again on

the Volta Lake”, it added.

The GMA further revealed plans to prevent future tragedies: “A full investigation involving maritime inspectors and the Navy Task Force to determine the cause of the accident and hold those responsible accountable.

The formation of a high-level Casualty Investigations Committee in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport to propose urgent policy reforms.

Enhanced enforcement operations along the Volta Lake, with a focus on seizing and prosecuting overloaded boats and operators who flout safety regulations”.

“Italian mafia network using Ghana’s galamsey to clean dirty money” – Prof Kwesi Aning

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Professor Kwesi Aning, a Security consultant, has claimed Italian mafia network is using Ghana’s illegal mining (galamsey) to clean their dirty money.

According to Professor Kwesi Aning, his research findings cite that the Italian mafia network is ceasing advantage of galamsey to launder money.

Speaking on JoyNewsFile on Saturday, October 11, 2025, Professor Kwesi Aning stated, “There are two studies, several studies, in fact. One shows that a group from Italy, the Italian mafia, brings in enough dirty money to buy gold. This is free consultancy for the national security and the financial intelligence agency; one Italian mafia group brings in dirty money to buy gold, takes it, sells it elsewhere, cleans the money, and takes it back to Europe.

That is number one,” he stated while answering a question on whether the security issues arising from illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, could lead to the terrorisation of Ghanaians or militia activities in the country”.

He added, “Number two, we know, and it is proven beyond doubt, that with the exception of Mali, Ghana is the second-largest gold-producing country, where the leakages are massive.

Now, I think Elikem might be able to tell us, but initial calculations show that about 2 to 2.5 billion dollars worth of illicit small-scale gold oozes out of the system every year.

This leads to organised criminal groups having an interest in ensuring that whatever NIAMOS is achieving right now will be resisted, and I can tell you that there is going to be resistance,” he added.

Meanwhile, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) Task Force has rounded up several illegal gold miners (galamseyers) at the Cape Three Points forest reserve.

According to reports, NAIMOS stormed the Cape Three Points forest reserve and arrested several galamseyers and also destroyed mining equipment and drugs.

The galamseyers’ makeshift structures were also burnt.

This follows NAIMOS’ operation on illegal miners (galamsey) in the Western North and Western Regions.

NAIMOS arrested two Chinese nationals and intercepted several Burkinabè workers in separate anti-galamsey operations.

According to Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister of Government Communication, who shared the information on X, stated, “NAIMOS Busts Chinese Nationals  Involved in Galamsey.

On Wednesday, 8th October, 2025, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) Task Force arrested two Chinese nationals engaging in illegal mining activities in the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve in the Jomoro area of the Western North Region”.

He further added that some Items were seized and others destroyed,

– A Toyota Land Cruiser V8 with registration number GR 442-14.

– Four excavators

– Two heavy water pumping machines.

– 12 makeshift structures were destroyed”.

In related news, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, staged yet another operation along the Ankobra River.

The Ankobra River in the Nzema East Municipality is located in the Western Region.

According to Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister of Government Communication following Equipment was Seized/Destroyed:

– 1 Excavator

– 100 Makeshift structures set ablaze

– 7 Chanfangs destroyed

– 88 Water Pumping Machines seized

– 3 Gas cylinders seized

– 3 Shovels seized

– 4 Plastic Chairs seized

– 2 Water Hoses seized

– 1 DSTV dish seized

– 1 Gen set seized

– 1 Pick Axe seized

Additionally, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) had earlier stormed a notorious galamsey hideout named ‘Gangway’ at Aboso in the Western Region.

According to Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister of Government Communication, the operation was carried out on Monday, October 5, 2025.

In a post on X, he wrote, “The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) Task Force has carried out a significant operation in the Western Region, targeting notorious galamsey hideouts.

On Monday, October 5, 2025, the Task Force stormed “Gangway,” a crime-infested community in Aboso, Prestea-Huni Valley District.

-Makeshift Structures Destroyed*: Several makeshift structures serving as hideouts and drug bases were set ablaze, and galamsey equipment was destroyed.

-Hundreds Surrender: Several hundred locals, mostly galamseyers, surrendered to the Task Force. These individuals were involved in various social vices, including illegal mining, trading, and narcotics smoking, as well as gambling.

-Drugs Seized- Eleven parcels of Indian Hemp were seized, alongside other hard drugs.

– Previous Warnings Ignored: This operation follows a similar one in June 2025, where NAIMOS warned criminal gangs and galamseyers to vacate the area. Despite this, the warnings were ignored.