Facebook Instagram Twitter Youtube
Listen to Orange FM Live
Home Blog Page 120

Fire at Kwashieman Cluster of Schools Damages Ablekuma North Ballot Boxes

By
Ivy Hollys
-
fire at kwashieman cluster of schools

A fire outbreak at the Kwashieman Cluster of Schools in the early hours of December 17 damaged ballot boxes from the Ablekuma North Constituency.

The fire, which started around 1:40 a.m., originated in the school library, where the ballot boxes were stored.

Ghana National Fire Service PRO Alex King Nartey confirmed that the fire’s cause remains unknown, but investigations are ongoing.

Authorities also discovered additional burned ballot papers outside the premises, raising concerns about the fire’s circumstances.

Fire personnel contained the flames after two hours, salvaging nearby structures and preventing further damage to the school.

The police also provided an update regarding the 132 suspects arrested across the country in connection with post-election disturbances. According to the statement, “Out of this number, 45 suspects have been remanded into custody, 71 are on police inquiry bail, and 16 are on court bail.” 

Authorities reiterated their commitment to upholding peace and ensuring that anyone involved in unlawful acts faces due process of the law.

See full statement below: 

fire outbreak at kwashieman: Police statement

Court Grants Bail to 15 NDC Supporters Accused of EC Office Arson

By
Ivy Hollys
-
ndc flag
NDC

Fifteen supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) accused of burning the Electoral Commission (EC) office in Asuboi have been granted bail. The bail was granted by the Osino District Court in the Fanteakwa South District of the Eastern Region

The Osino District Court presided over by His Worship Salifu Bugri Ayagiba, set bail at GH₵20,000 for each suspect with one surety.

The arson occurred on December 10, 2024, during protests by a group called Ayensuano Concerned Youth over the MP-elect’s declaration. Ida Adwoa Asiedu was declared MP-elect for the Ayensuano Constituency but unrest led to the EC office being set ablaze. 

The suspects are scheduled to reappear in court on January 14, 2025. The bail was granted by His Worship Salifu Bugri Ayagiba, despite objections from the prosecution.

 Prosecuting Detective Chief Inspector Kamal Salifu Gumah opposed bail, citing ongoing investigations and potential interference by the accused. However, counsel for the accused countered, assuring the court that his clients were well-known in the community and would cooperate with legal proceedings.

The court upheld the defense counsel’s plea and granted bail to the suspects. 

Counsel for the accused said, “We had to come to court to help them, and by God’s grace, we have been able to secure bail for them. We will come back to the case on January 14, 2025.”

“In as much as they have been granted bail, The court has asked them to report to the Kibi police commander to ensure that they are still available. Everyone was granted 20,000gh bail. All the fifteen people were granted bail today.”

He further stated, “These are all accusations, so the evidence is the only thing that shows they did what they are being accused of; until then, it is just a mere accusation. If the police can gather evidence, fine if not, the case will be rubbished.” 

Ghana Faces Billions in Revenue Loss if E-Levy and COVID-19 Tax Scrapped -Analysts Warn

By
Ivy Hollys
-
e-levy and covid tax revenue analysis

Government estimates show that E-Levy is expected to generate GHS 2.4 billion in 2025, an increase from GHS 2.1 billion budgeted for this year. Similarly, the COVID-19 Levy is projected to bring in GHS 3.97 billion next year, up from GHS 3.1 billion in 2024.

The incoming NDC government’s proposal to scrap the E-Levy and COVID-19 tax could result in a GHS 6.4 billion revenue loss in 2025. Analysts warn that this development poses serious threats to Ghana’s fiscal sustainability. 

The two tax streams are anticipated to contribute an additional GHS 1.2 billion in 2025 compared to the 2024 figures. The revenue shortfall may compel the government to resort to more borrowing, exacerbating the country’s unsustainable debt levels and increasing economic risks. 

Analysts caution that removing these taxes without clear alternative revenue measures could undermine fiscal stability and derail the country’s fragile economic recovery efforts.

Some industry experts believe the solution lies in reducing import exemptions, which they estimate could generate around GHS 9 billion in potential tax savings. They are estimating potential tax savings of approximately GHS 9 billion in this regard.

Tax consultant Francis Timore-Boi says, “Direct tax exemptions at the ports alone amounted to about GHS 3.5 billion, of which the government approved approximately GHS 1.7 billion. Additionally, some items are zero-rated when imported. If those items are reviewed, we could generate significant revenue.”

“Combined, one can estimate close to GHS 9 billion from port exemptions and zero-rated imports. Therefore, if we reduce these exemptions, the revenue loss from abolishing the two levies can certainly be recovered.” 

While the proposed tax cuts align with the NDC’s goal to alleviate the burden on households and businesses, the economic trade-offs require careful analysis, especially as the country’s recovery efforts are still ongoing.

Source: Citinewsroom

GWL claims ownership amid demolition threats; workers stand firm against encroachment

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-

The Ghana Water Limited in the Ashanti Region is insisting its ownership of a property targeted for demolition by private developers in the Ridge Residential Area of Kumasi.

Employees of the water company are determined to defend their claim to the land, which they have maintained for over fifty years.

The situation escalated when the company was forced to halt operations for nearly three days, leaving residents in the Ashanti Region scrambling for alternative water sources after private developers demolished structures on the disputed land.

Following urgent discussions with management, the workers of the Ghana Water Limited in Ashanti have temporarily called off their strike.

The workers’ union praised the management’s prompt and effective response to secure the threatened property and address the illegal demolitions.

Ing Dr. Hadisu Alhassan, the workers’ representative on the board, provided insights into the decision to suspend the strike.

Despite the temporary resolution, the workers have issued a warning that they will resume their strike and boycott services if the encroachers attempt to take control over the property again.

Damage on President Akufo-Addo’s Statue in Sekondi-Takoradi

By
Ivy Hollys
-

A hole has been discovered on the leg of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s statue at Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital on the morning of Monday, December 16, 2024. 

The damage, located at the back of one leg, has raised concerns among residents in Sekondi-Takoradi, Western Region. It remains unclear whether the damage was intentional or caused by structural issues.

This statue, unveiled by the President during his regional tour, was erected to celebrate significant projects in the Western Region. Western Regional Minister, Kwabena Okyere explained that the statue was erected to honor key projects such as the rehabilitation of Effia-Nkwanta Hospital, the construction of the 3-tier Sinohydro interchange, and the redevelopment of the Takoradi Market Circle.

Residents had previously expressed opposition to the statue, with some threatening its removal. However, the Western Regional Minister Kwabena Okyere Darko Mensah defended the statue’s purpose, emphasizing its symbolic value in honoring development achievements.

Detractors argued that the funds used for the statue could have been redirected to pressing local needs, such as improving healthcare infrastructure at the very hospital where it stands.

Before this latest incident, factions within the community had openly threatened to destroy the monument, labelling it a symbol of misplaced priorities.

The visible damage now leaves many wondering whether the statue’s fate is a product of these longstanding tensions or a mere coincidence.

Authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident, and investigations are expected to determine the exact cause of the damage.

GHS Launches Cholera Vaccination Campaign in Western Region

By
Ivy Hollys
-
cholera outbreak_ghs

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has commenced a mass cholera vaccination campaign in the Western Region, running from December 15 to 19. The initiative targets four Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) heavily impacted by the ongoing cholera outbreak.

This decision comes in response to the rising number of cholera cases and fatalities, particularly in the Western and Central Regions. The Western Region has recorded 908 confirmed cholera cases and 10 deaths, prompting urgent measures to curb the spread.

Over 600,000 residents aged two and above in Shama Municipality, Sekondi-Takoradi, Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers will however, be excluded from the vaccination.

Teams will be stationed at key locations such as churches, mosques, markets, homes, and schools to ensure widespread coverage. These areas have been identified as high-priority zones due to their vulnerability.

Earlier this month, Ghana conducted its first sub-national cholera vaccination campaign in the Awutu Senya East sub-districts, from November 30 to December 3, targeting an estimated 150,000 people.

The campaign exceeded its target, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to control the cholera outbreak. The GHS remains committed to combating the outbreak through vaccination and other public health interventions.

Mahama’s Office Dismisses Fake Appointment Lists Circulating 

By
Ivy Hollys
-
joyce bawa mogtari special aide to John Mahama

The Office of President-Elect John Dramani Mahama has denied the authenticity of alleged appointment lists circulating on social media.

Joyce Bawah Mogtari, special Aide to the President-Elect, in a signed statement on December 16th, described the lists as “false and unauthorised.”

The statement emphasized that no official appointments or nominations have been made and urged the public to disregard the circulating reports.

The statement advised Ghanaians to rely solely on verified communications from the Office of the President-Elect for accurate updates.

According to the office, the list is entirely fabricated and has no basis. The circulation of such false information has created confusion among the public, prompting the need for an official clarification.

 Bawah Mogtari stressed that any authentic announcements regarding appointments or other related matters will be issued through official channels. 

“We urge everyone to disregard the fake news and refrain from spreading unverified information,” the statement read.

The office of the president-elect assured the public of its commitment to transparency and professionalism during this transition period. 

It also encouraged citizens to report any suspicious or unverified information regarding Mr Mahama to the appropriate authorities to maintain accuracy in public discourse.

Read full statement below: 

GNAT Calls for Justice after Teacher Stabbed by Student

By
Ivy Hollys
-

The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has demanded justice for a teacher stabbed in the left eye by a loitering student at Asuoso Senior High School in Offinso, Ashanti Region.

The teacher, Ishmael Famous, reportedly confronted the student, instructing him to return to class. In retaliation, the student stabbed him, resulting in the loss of his left eye. GNAT has urged law enforcement to prosecute the student, emphasizing that the teacher deserves compensation under the provisions of Workmen’s Compensation.

General Secretary Thomas Musah stressed the need for justice and support for the teacher’s medical expenses, stating, “The law demands that if somebody is working in his line of duty, and something happens to him, the law provides that he should be compensated.”

Expressing frustration, Mr. Musah criticized alleged attempts to suppress the case and warned of potential teacher protests if swift action isn’t taken. He highlighted the severity of the injury, noting the teacher’s career is now at risk, given his dependence on eyesight for his work.

He asked, “Who is going to take care of his medical bills and all those things? Who will do that?” GNAT has called on the Ghana Education Service and law enforcement to ensure accountability, insisting failure to act decisively will force the association to consider drastic measures when schools resume.

Mr. Musah explained that on November 18, 2024, he received a report that the teacher had been stabbed in the left eye after the teacher had asked the student to enter the classroom.

Following the damage caused to the eye, the GNAT General Secretary said the career of the teacher was in danger because, “looking at the profession, you need your eyes to work with.” So, depending on the part of your body that is affected, if your leg is cut off, there is an amount to be paid. If your hand is cut off, there is an amount.”

He further added, “If it is your eye, if that particular part of your body that is affected is what you are depending upon as a professional, there is an amount of money to be paid to you”.

Mr. Musah charged all to endeavor to support teachers to discharge their duties effectively. 

Three Catholic priests assaulted at Nkwanta

By
Ivy Hollys
-
catholic priests

Three Indian Catholic priests based at Kpassa in the Nkwanta-North District of the Oti Region were brutally beaten by a mob at a fuel station in Nkwanta last Wednesday.

The three Catholic priests are Father Robinson Melkis, Father Frank Henry Jacob, and Father Martin George, all belonging to the Capuchin Friars. The 3 are said to have been engaged in missionary activities in Ghana since 2005.

They were beaten to such an extent that Father Frank Henry Jacob lost hearing in one of his ears. He has been referred to Yendi Hospital. Parts of the attack were captured in a video which has been widely circulated on social media.

Two other officials of the Nkwanta-South Municipal Assembly who were accompanying them were also assaulted by the mob. They are the Municipal Engineer and the Municipal Town and Country Planning Officer, Samuel Worlanyo Asugbey.

According to the Vicar-General of the Catholic Diocese of Jasikan, Monsignor Joseph Kofi Nsiah, they had gone to hire a bulldozer from the Nkwanta-South Municipal Assembly to work on a piece of land they were preparing to construct a Formation House project for seminarians at Chaiso in the Nkwanta-South Municipality.

They paid an amount of GH¢9,700 and were accompanied by the two officials to move the equipment to the site at Chaiso. Monsignor Nsiah said they were at a filling station to fuel the equipment when they were attacked by the mob, who accused them of trying to steal the equipment.

He said for 30 minutes, they were beaten mercilessly until they were rescued by officers of the Ghana Immigration Service. The mob then reported to the police that the priests were stealing one of the Assembly’s road equipment.

The Vicar-General stated that upon this report, they were remanded into police custody, and the equipment was impounded. Upon the intervention of the Vicar-General, they have been granted bail pending further investigation.

Meanwhile, the leadership of the National Democratic Congress branch of the Nkwanta-South Constituency has rendered an unqualified apology to the three Indian Catholic Priests and the Jasikan Diocese of the Catholic Church today.

A release issued at Nkwanta and signed by the NDC Constituency Secretary, Prince Succeed Fiagadzi, said they were deeply appalled and saddened by the attack on the Catholic Priests by some youth around 9 am last Wednesday.

They described the act as unacceptable and apologized for the harm, trauma, and distress inflicted on them. “Your selfless dedication to serving humanity and preaching the message of love and compassion deserves utmost respect and gratitude”, they added.

Source: Graphiconline

Kayode, Nigerian Man on FBI Most Wanted List Extradited from Ghana

By
Ivy Hollys
-
kayode, nigeria fraudster case

A Nigerian, Abiola Kayode, 37, who had been on the most wanted list of the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has been extradited from Ghana to Nebraska, U.S., following a Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud Indictment, filed in August 2019.

According to a statement by the United States Attorney’s Office, District of Nebraska, Kayode was arrested by authorities in Ghana and handed to FBI special agents who brought him to Nebraska pursuant to a U.S. request for his extradition.

He had an initial appearance on the Indictment on December 11, 2024, and was ordered by Magistrate Judge Michael D. Nelson to remain detained pending trial.

Kayode’s Alleged Operations

Kayode is alleged to have participated in a business email compromise (BEC) scheme from January 2015 to September 2016. The BEC scheme defrauded businesses in the District of Nebraska and elsewhere of more than $6 million.

The indictment shows that Kayode’s co-conspirators posed as the chief executive officer, president, owner, or other executive of the targeted company. Using e-mail accounts spoofed to make it appear as though they were from the company’s true business executive, Kayode’s co-conspirators directed business employees or recipients of the e-mail to complete wire transfers.

The business employees, believing the requests were legitimate, complied with the wire transfer requests and wired the money as instructed by Kayode’s co-conspirators. It is alleged Kayode provided bank account information to the co-conspirators who sent the fraudulent e-mails, and which directed business employees to wire money to accounts controlled by Kayode and others.

These bank accounts largely belonged to victims of internet romance scams, who were instructed by co-conspirators to transfer the funds to other bank accounts.

US Statements

According to the US Attorney’s Office, some of Kayode’s co-conspirators have already been convicted and sentenced. One of the fraudsters, Adewale Aniyeloye, who sent spoofed e-mails to the target business, was sentenced in February 2019 to 96 months’ imprisonment and ordered to pay $1,570,938.05 in restitution.

Pelumi Fawehinimi, a bank account facilitator, was sentenced in March 2019 to 72 months’ imprisonment and ordered to pay $1,014,159.60 in restitution.

Onome Ijomone, a romance scammer, was sentenced in January 2020 to 60 months’ imprisonment and ordered to pay $508,934.40 in restitution after his successful extradition from Poland. Other co-conspirators remain at large.

Alex Ogunshakin, a co-conspirator who provided bank accounts for the scheme, was sentenced to 45 months’ imprisonment in October 2024 after his successful extradition from Nigeria.

“Four years ago, we identified six Nigerian nationals suspected of defrauding individual victims and businesses in Nebraska and other states of millions of dollars,” said FBI Omaha Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel.

“Today, Abiola Kayode is the second of those co-conspirators to be extradited to stand trial in Nebraska. Our message to the remaining four co-conspirators; we are coming for you. Dismantling cyber-criminal groups that victimize U.S. citizens is a priority for the FBI, DOJ, and our international law enforcement partners.”

“The FBI, working together with our partners in Ghana, particularly the Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Justice, the Ghana Police Service – INTERPOL, and the Ghana Immigration Service, will continue to pursue and bring to justice criminals who engage in Business Email Compromise and other fraud schemes.”

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing Kayode’s extradition.

Source: Guardian.ng

1...119120121...172Page 120 of 172

Recent Posts

Email: info@focus1mediagh.com