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A/R: One killed, other robbery suspects arrested in Explosive police swoop

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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The Ashanti Regional Police Command, under the leadership of Regional Commander DCOP Emmanuel Teye-Cudjoe, has arrested several individuals in connection with a string of violent residential robberies that have rocked parts of the region in recent weeks.

In a coordinated, intelligence-led operation conducted on Friday, June 27, 2025, around 11:30 a.m., officers from the Police Intelligence Department, supported by a joint patrol team from the KNUST District Police Command and Regional Operations, moved in on suspects at their various hideouts within the Kumasi metropolis.

During the operation, one suspect sustained gunshot wounds during an exchange of gunfire with police officers and was later pronounced dead at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH).

Another key suspect, identified as Yahaya Nuhu, remains on the run and is being actively pursued by law enforcement.

According to the police, the operation was launched following multiple reports of armed robbery incidents in the Abuakwa, Tanoso, Apatrapa, Dechembuoso, and Appiadu areas.

Investigations revealed that the suspects were heavily armed wielding pump action guns, pistols, and other dangerous weapons and had been breaking into homes, holding victims and their families hostage, and stealing valuables such as cash, laptops, mobile phones, and electronic gadgets.

The initial swoop led to the arrest of:Kwadwo Kyei Baffour, 39 Joseph Oppong alias Joe, 30,Bernard Owusu Ansah alias Hot Boy, 27 Items recovered from their hideouts include Multiple laptops, tablets, and mobile phones Wristwatches, television sets, and WiFi routers Three vehicles a Kia Morning and two Toyota Corollas (GX 4388-19 and AS 4777-22) they were Face masks believed to have been used during their robbery operations .

Further investigations and interrogations revealed shocking details.

Suspect Kwadwo Kyei Baffour admitted to participating in the robberies and confessed to committing a rape during one of the attacks.

Armed Robbers Arrested in Coordinated Police Operation Across Kumasi

Subsequent police operations led to the arrest of more accomplices,Kwadwo Konadu, 28,James Asare Boateng, 26Emmanuel Asiedu, 27, Maxwell Gyimah, 30.

Police retrieved several weapons and ammunition, including:A Taurus pistol (ACC721513) with 4 rounds of 9mm ammunition An NP Cal 9x19mm pistol (No. 11501418)A Jojeff pump-action shotgun (No. 8782) with 33 rounds

Addressing the press in Kumasi, the Regional Police Commander, DCOP Emmanuel Teye-Cudjoe, assured the public that an intensive manhunt is underway to apprehend the remaining suspect, Yahaya Nuhu.

“We remain committed to ensuring the safety, peace, and justice for residents in the Ashanti Region,” the Command said in a statement. “We commend the public for its continued cooperation and encourage all citizens to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.”

Police Announce Imminent Raid on Tinker Island to Tackle Crime and Drug Abuse

By
Ivy Hollys
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Police Announce Imminent Raid on Tinker Island to Tackle Crime and Drug Abuse

Tinker Island, a known hotspot for drug-related activities in the Ashanti Region, is set to be raided in the coming days, according to the Ghana Police Service.

The Regional Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Police Service, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Godwin Ahianyo, revealed that law enforcement agencies, in collaboration with other state institutions, are preparing a coordinated operation to address the escalating issues of crime and drug abuse within the area.

Speaking on Orange FM 107.9’s Sunrise show on Thursday, June 26, 2025, DSP Ahianyo explained that although several attempts have been made in the past to evacuate the area, the conditions of some inhabitants made enforcement efforts extremely difficult.

“Tinker Island has a large number of drug users, and previous efforts to remove them haven’t been easy,” he said. “Some of them are in such bad conditions that when you arrest them, they create chaos at the police station and even in court. That’s why we had to carefully assess the situation when the Minister tasked the Command.”

According to him, this time, the Police Service has roped in multiple agencies including the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), the Department of Social Welfare, the Ghana Health Service, and the Narcotics Control Commission to provide a more sustainable and humane solution.

The drug addicted victims is going to be tackle

“The plan is to approach this in stages,” DSP Ahianyo noted. “We will first target the seriously affected drug users, and once we take them off the streets, we will send them to rehabilitation centres where NADMO, Social Welfare and Ghana Health Service will assist in their recovery.”

He added that the next phase will involve cracking down on drug pushers and then eventually the labour force behind the operations.

“By the time we reach the final stage, those who are financing the pushers will no longer have anyone left to sell the drugs to,” he emphasized.

DSP Ahianyo assured the people of Kumasi that the Ashanti Regional Minister, along with all relevant stakeholders, is fully committed to ensuring the operation is effective and sustainable.

“This time, we’re making sure everything needed is in place, and all the necessary agencies are on board,” he said. “We want Kumasi residents to know that we are serious about restoring safety and order to Tinker Island.”he stated

Police on Manhunt for Five Suspects

By
Ivy Hollys
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The Ashanti Central Regional Police Command has launched a manhunt for five suspects. These individuals are believed to be part of a criminal syndicate behind a series of coordinated bank robberies in the region.

According to the Regional Public Relations Officer, DSP Godwin Ahianyo, the suspects are being pursued using modern surveillance methods, including CCTV monitoring. This has already led to the arrest of five members of the gang. This gang consists of three men and two women. The group is said to have targeted unsuspecting bank customers. They have also made away with large amounts of cash and sowing fear within the community.

“We have arrested five suspects so far, including two women and three men, DSP Ahianyo stated. “But we are still actively searching for the remaining five,” DSP Ahianyo revealed. These individuals have been terrorizing bank customers. He said,”those who withdraw large sums of money are those they target. He continued saying, “it is our priority to bring them to justice”. DSP warned bank staff and agents against withdrawing large sums of money on behalf of customers. Ahianyo then recommended the use of digital transactions as a safer alternative.

Five suspects have been for criminal robbery

“We want to advise bank agents to reduce the handling of huge cash withdrawals, as it attracts criminals. Electronic transactions are safer and reduce the risk of robbery,” he stated.

He cited a recent case in which involved a doctor. Right after withdrawing a significant amount of money from a bank, she parked her vehicle at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital. Just after a short while, her money stolen afterward.

He highlighted that the police say investigations are still ongoing. They have urged the public to remain alert and report any suspicious behavior as they work to dismantle the syndicate and prevent future attacks.

Presidency Responds to Suspended Chief Justice’s Address

By
Ivy Hollys
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Presidency Responds to Press Remarks by Suspended Chief Justice
Presidency Responds to Press Remarks by Suspended Chief Justice

The Presidency, through spokesperson Felix Kwashi Kposo, has responded to the recent press engagement by Her Ladyship, the Suspended Chief Justice, Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo.

This response was made during a briefing held to address concerns about inaccuracies in the Chief Justice’s remarks concerning the petition filed against her and the work of the investigative committee.

Mr. Kposo stated, “Many of you in the media have reached out to me, seeking to inquire about what government makes of the press engagements that her ladyship, the Chief Justice, just had, which bordered on the petitions brought against her and the deliberations of the committee tasked to look into the matter.”

He explained that while the Presidency would normally refrain from commenting on active committee matters, certain claims made during the press engagement required clarification. According to him, “A number of things were said at the media engagements that if left uncorrected could create an erroneous impression, and project government in a very unfair, unjust, unwarranted light.”

Confidentiality and Constitutional Compliance in Chief Justice Proceedings

Mr. Kposo reiterated that the Chief Justice has the right to express her views, provided it aligns with constitutional guidelines. He said, “We respect the right of her ladyship, the Chief Justice, to express any view that she holds about the matter in question to the extent that it is consistent with the rules.”

He further stressed the constitutional mandate for confidentiality in such matters. “The constitution requires confidentiality on the part of all parties. It is the reason why the presidency, on behalf of His Excellency, the President, has refrained from commentary on the matter beyond stating what the president has done in compliance with the constitution.”

On allegations of misconduct by the President, Mr. Kposo defended his actions. “Nobody has been able to ascribe any known verifiable constitutional breach through the president in the way that he has handled this particular matter.”

He added, “From the very first steps in this matter, the president has kept fidelity to the constitution and has respected the spirit and letter of the constitution.”

Addressing Political Allegations and Historical References

The Chief Justice was also said to have implied a political motive behind the process. Mr. Kposo responded, “Her ladyship, the Chief Justice, all but insinuated that there was some political agenda at play to oust her, and that this whole process is the result of sin.”

He maintained that President Mahama acted solely on constitutional grounds. “The President took an oath to which he was incidentally sworn by her ladyship, the Chief Justice herself. And in that oath he swore to abide by the 1992 Constitution.”

On accusations connecting the petition to past judicial murders, Mr. Kposo firmly rejected any such link. “The attempts to link the dastardly killings of some supreme court judges and a military officer to this case are most disingenuous.”

He clarified that the venue for the proceedings, EduLodge, was irrelevant to the case’s integrity. “Wherever these proceedings were held, it will still be in camera as clearly stipulated in Article 146(8) of the 1992 constitution.”

Commitment to Due Process and Final Clarifications

Mr. Kposo concluded by emphasizing the government’s decision to avoid public commentary on the case’s merits. “We have no interest in violating the constitution by going to the merits of the case, and that is why government has refrained.”

He also noted the government’s concerns over early media leaks. “The very first sign of any leakage was the letter that the Chief Justice wrote requesting for copies of the petition. Before the letter got to the presidency, it was in the media.”

In his final remarks, Mr. Kposo said, “What has happened today is most regrettable. As government or as the president, President Mahama is committed to upholding the rule of law.”

He reiterated the principle of equality under the law, saying, “If members of the judiciary themselves are alleged to be engaged in some wrongdoing, the processes laid down and spelled out by the constitution ought to be respected, and that is exactly what has happened.”

Chief Justice Torkornoo Denounces Petitions as Politically Motivated in First-Ever

By
Ivy Hollys
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Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo

Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo on Tuesday 25th June 2025 broke her silence over mounting calls for her removal, stating categorically that the petitions filed against her have not been admitted as evidence or subjected to cross-examination, and therefore remain unproven.

In an unprecedented press conference the first by a sitting Chief Justice under such circumstances she challenged the credibility, motivation, and timing of the three formal petitions seeking her suspension, calling them a coordinated attempt to tarnish her image and undermine the independence of Ghana’s judiciary.

“The petitions have not been admitted into evidence nor subjected to any form of cross-examination,” Justice Torkornoo emphasized. “Yet narratives are being spun, creating the impression that my removal is a foregone conclusion.”

The Chief Justice further revealed that she has been subjected to threats both direct and veiled aimed at her into resigning. She shared that some well-meaning individuals have privately advised her to step down in the face of what they describe as a politically orchestrated effort to oust her from office.

“I have heard from loved ones, concerned citizens, and even strangers who believe it would be best to resign or retire rather than face a process that appears engineered to remove me. I’ve also received threats that harm would come to me if I refuse to step down,” she disclosed.

Despite the pressure, Chief Justice Torkornoo stood firm in her decision not to resign. She described such an act, while proceedings under Article 146 are ongoing, as legally impermissible for any judge or public official. She cited a Supreme Court precedent affirming this stance.

She also took time to address specific allegations in one of the most prominent petitions, filed by Mr. Daniel Ofori. According to her, only two of the numerous claims made by Mr. Ofori directly involve him as a court user.

In one claim, Ofori accuses the Chief Justice of improperly transferring his case from one High Court judge to another — a move he alleges was unjust and manipulative. Chief Justice Torkornoo clarified that the transfer was necessitated by a personal emergency involving the original judge, who had to leave the country for an extended period. The case, she said, was reassigned in accordance with established court procedures.

chief justice revealed her petitions claims

In the second claim, Ofori alleges bias in the reassignment of a related case. The Chief Justice explained that consolidating cases with similar parties and issues under a single judge is a long-standing legal principle designed to prevent conflicting judgments — a fact any experienced lawyer or court registrar would affirm.

“I had no interest in the outcome of Mr. Ofori’s case, and my actions were in full compliance with judicial procedure. I am not a criminal, not a thief, not a fraud. I am an honest person who does her job with integrity,” she declared.

Reaffirming her dedication to the rule of law, Chief Justice Torkornoo noted her 38 years as a legal practitioner, 21 years as a judge, and her current stewardship of the country’s judiciary. She described the ordeal as “a model of injustice” she never imagined possible in Ghana’s legal framework — yet one she is determined to face head-on.

“I do not cling to titles. But I owe it to justice, to the people of Ghana, and to the truth, to see this through. I have nothing to hide.”

The Chief Justice’s bold address sends a powerful message amid growing public scrutiny of Ghana’s judicial independence. Her decision to confront the allegations publicly marks a significant moment in Ghana’s legal and political history, with implications likely to ripple far beyond the courtroom.

Source-Esther Amankwah

Ghana National Fire Service Faces Collapse Over Equipment Shortages, Parliament Informed

By
Ivy Hollys
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Ghana National Fire Service
Ghana National Fire Service

The Ghana National Fire Service is facing an operational crisis due to severe equipment shortages, officials say. During a recent meeting with the Parliamentary Committee on Defence and Interior, the service raised urgent concerns about its ability to respond to emergencies effectively.

Ghana National Fire Service faces Severe Shortages Threaten Core Operations

Deputy Chief Fire Officer (DCFO) Mark Brako Appiah, who oversees finance at the Ghana National Fire Service, delivered a sobering update. He revealed that some fire tenders in operation are over 22 years old. Spare parts for these vehicles are no longer available, as manufacturers have stopped production.

He warned Committee Chair James Agalga that without new equipment by the end of 2026, the Ghana National Fire Service may be forced to shut down. The service currently operates 220 fire stations and 36 fire posts across the country. However, it only has 136 functional fire tenders.

Many stations operate without working tenders or rely on outdated ones that frequently break down. DCFO Appiah noted that limited access to functional hydrants worsens the situation. He stressed the urgent need for new fire tenders to maintain operational readiness and ensure public safety.

Leadership Acknowledges Declining Public Confidence

Chief Fire Officer Madam Daniella Mawusi Ntow-Sarpong addressed the committee and acknowledged a drop in public trust. She said the Ghana National Fire Service is implementing measures to boost internal discipline and improve training and professionalism.

Madam Ntow-Sarpong also responded to reports of tenders arriving at fire scenes without water. She linked this issue to the scarcity of hydrants in many communities and called for greater cooperation in addressing infrastructure shortfalls.

Parliamentary Committee Pledges Support

The Parliamentary Committee on Defence and Interior, chaired by Hon. James Agalga, pledged to act on the findings. Members committed to compiling a detailed report to present to Parliament.

The report will offer recommendations aimed at strengthening the Ghana National Fire Service. Lawmakers emphasized the importance of maintaining the service’s critical role in protecting life and property.

This latest development highlights the urgent need for investment in emergency response infrastructure. Without timely action, Ghana risks a significant gap in public safety and disaster response.

14 Arrested in NACOC Drug Bust as Three Chemical Shops Closed in Eastern Region

By
Ivy Hollys
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14 Arrested in NACOC Drug Bust as Three Chemical Shops Closed in Eastern Region
14 Arrested in NACOC Drug Bust as Three Chemical Shops Closed in Eastern Region

A NACOC drug bust has led to the arrest of 14 individuals in the Birim Central and Asene Manso Akroso districts. The Ghana Police Service and the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) coordinated the targeted operation in Akim Oda and Akroso.

The operation followed weeks of surveillance and intelligence gathering aimed at disrupting drug trafficking networks. Authorities seized significant quantities of illegal drugs, including cannabis and a locally referred substance known as “red.

Chemical Shops Closed in NACOC Drug Bust for Illegal Drug Sales

As part of the NACOC drug bust, three licensed chemical shops were shut down for unlawfully selling unregistered pharmaceutical products. Officials reported that these shops operated without the necessary authorisation and played a significant role in illegal drug distribution.

Authorities believe the chemical shops contributed to increased accessibility to dangerous substances in the region. The closure is intended to deter future violations and enhance public health safety.

The NACOC drug bust forms part of an intensified national campaign to combat rising drug-related offences in Ghana. The Commission is urging residents to report suspicious activity to aid future enforcement actions.

NACOC Reaffirms Commitment to Nationwide Crackdown

The Narcotics Control Commission has vowed to maintain pressure on traffickers through sustained law enforcement operations.

“This is only the beginning,” a NACOC official stated. “We are determined to make Ghana a hostile environment for drug traffickers and their operations.”

The NACOC drug bust underscores a broader strategy to curb drug abuse and dismantle distribution networks across the country. More coordinated efforts are expected in coming weeks to reinforce NACOC’s mandate.

The arrests mark a major milestone in Ghana’s war on drugs, especially in the Eastern Region, where drug-related activity has been on the rise.

Asanko Gold Unveils Bold Five-Year Plan to Uplift Amansie Communities.

By
Ivy Hollys
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In a decisive move to reshape the socio-economic landscape of the Amansie West and South districts, Asanko Gold Ghana Ltd has launched an ambitious five-year development plan that aims to empower communities through strategic investments in infrastructure, education, health, and economic empowerment.

The initiative, officially unveiled during a gathering at the Manso Nkwanta Assembly, outlines a clear roadmap focused on agriculture and livelihood development, access to quality education, improved healthcare, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), and youth and women empowerment.

General Manager of Asanko Gold, Mr. Ahmed Mohadini-Yahaya, described the initiative as a “social contract” between the mining company and the people of its operational areas. “In 2025, we are set to roll out a series of impactful programs, including the Asanko Youth Apprenticeship Program, the Asanko Scholarship Scheme, and the Women in Soap-Making initiative,” he stated.

The youth apprenticeship program, he explained, is designed to tackle unemployment by equipping young people with practical skills and hands-on training relevant to today’s job market. Similarly, the scholarship initiative will support bright but financially challenged students from the mine’s catchment communities in pursuing tertiary education.

Asanko Gold Ongoing commitment to local development

Since the start of its commercial operations in 2016, Asanko Gold has invested in several development projects, including the construction of a 6-unit classroom block at Kwabenaso and a 5-unit teachers’ quarters at Asuadai. The company has also addressed water challenges by installing mechanized boreholes to reduce the daily burden on women and children who travel long distances for water.

District Chief Executive for Amansie West, Hon. Prince Morrison Manu, praised the initiative, aligning it with the NDC’s 2024 manifesto policies. “I fully endorse this plan as a vital step towards reducing unemployment and addressing the menace of illegal mining (galamsey) in our district,” he said.

His counterpart from Amansie South, Hon. Benjamin Marfo, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that the plan could reduce government’s development burden in the district by as much as 50 percent.

The event also marked the formal enrollment of 80 youth into the first group of individuals participating in a new program, initiative, or course of study of the Asanko Youth Apprenticeship Program. Representing Manso Nkwanta Hene, Nana Bi-Kusi Appiah II urged the company to follow through on its promises, stating, “Let this not remain on paper—implementing these plans is what will truly transform our communities.”

Kwabre Safo Chief Appeals for Government, NGO Support to Renovate 80-Year-Old School

By
Ivy Hollys
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kwabre safo chief appeals for government ,NGO support to renovate 80-year-old school

Traditional leaders in Kwabre Safo, located in the Kwabre East District of the Ashanti Region, are urgently appealing to the government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to assist in renovating an 80-year-old dilapidated school building that houses both the Primary and Junior High School.

The current condition of the Kwabre Safo Primary and JHS has been described as deplorable, posing a serious threat to the safety and academic progress of students.

Sections of the roof have been ripped off, while others are badly rusted or damaged, exposing students to harsh weather conditions such as rain and sunlight—making teaching and learning extremely difficult.

The Kontihene of Kwabre Safo, Nana Atta Appiah II, described the situation as not only alarming but a potential death trap. He warned that the structure poses a danger to both students and teachers if urgent action is not taken.

He revealed that traditional authorities had managed to re-roof part of the building through communal efforts, but due to limited resources, the project could not be completed.

Old school threatens safety -kwabre safo school appeals

Nana Atta Appiah therefore appealed to the government, citizens of Safo both home and abroad, and NGOs to support the full renovation of the aging school infrastructure.

He further noted that the community has also initiated the construction of a CHPS compound to enhance access to healthcare, but the project remains incomplete due to funding challenges. He called for assistance to complete the health facility as well.

The headmistress of the school, Madam Abena Frimponmaa, also expressed her concern about the adverse impact of the deteriorating structure on education in the community.

According to her, school enrollment and attendance have declined significantly, as many parents prefer to send their children to private schools out of fear for their safety—a situation she described as unfortunate.

Assembly Member for the area, Hon. Stephen Ampong, echoed the need for collective community action, emphasizing that residents must unite to support the renovation project while appealing for external assistance.

John Jinapor Tasks New VRA Board to Lead Ghana’s Energy Transition

By
Ivy Hollys
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John Jinapor Tasks New VRA Board to Lead Ghana’s Energy Transition
John Jinapor Tasks New VRA Board to Lead Ghana’s Energy Transition

The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, has officially inaugurated the newly reconstituted Governing Board of the Volta River Authority (VRA), following their appointment by President John Dramani Mahama in consultation with the Council of State.

The inauguration ceremony, held in Accra on Monday, June 23, 2025, marked a significant step in repositioning the VRA at the forefront of Ghana’s evolving energy landscape. Addressing the board members, Hon. Jinapor emphasized their critical role in driving Ghana’s energy transition.

“This board has been entrusted with the task of improving VRA’s operations, optimising hydro and thermal assets, and firmly anchoring renewable initiatives within the Authority’s core mandate,” he stated. “VRA must work to be the lead institution when it comes to power generation.”

Government Support and Energy Transition Board Mandate

Hon. Jinapor outlined several key strategic priorities for the board, including operational revitalisation, accelerated green transition, development of human capital, and enhanced public and stakeholder engagement.

He assured the board of the government’s unwavering support in executing their mandate.

“The Ministry will give you the needed support. The President has absolute confidence in the capabilities of the members of this board. As a board, you should lead VRA to champion the reforms in the power sector,” he noted.

The Minister’s remarks reflect the government’s broader commitment to modernising the energy sector and ensuring Ghana remains on track toward achieving a sustainable, low-carbon economy.

Board Pledges to Restore VRA’s Leadership

Responding on behalf of the board, Chairman Ing. Jabesh Amissah-Arthur expressed appreciation to President Mahama for the trust and confidence placed in them. He acknowledged the current challenges facing the Authority and promised to guide the VRA back to its leadership position in the power sector.

“The fortunes of VRA have stagnated and dwindled over the years as a result of government policies,” he said. “We will provide strategic guidance and direction to bring VRA back as the lead power generator in the sub-region and Africa.”

The newly appointed board members include:

  1. Ing. Jabesh Amissah-Arthur – Chairman
  2. Ing. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo – Ag. Chief Executive
  3. Dr. Lawrence Ofosu Adjare
  4. Hon. Collins Dauda
  5. Hon. Fred Kwesi Agbenyo
  6. Lawyer Wonder Victor Kutor
  7. Awulai Attibrukusu III
  8. Peggy Addo

The reconstitution of the VRA Board marks a renewed focus on institutional reform, sector efficiency, and green energy leadership in Ghana’s power generation space.

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