Category: Local News

Five illegal miners, including three Chinese nationals, have been arrested along River Fum in Assin Ayitey, located in the Assin North District of the Central Region.

The suspects are currently in the custody of the Central North Police Command’s Anti-Galamsey Taskforce.

They have been identified as Duut Kwabena Sakakba, 38, Douglas Nyamekye, 36, Ma Jian, 37 (Chinese), Ma Young, 31 (Chinese), and Ma Haibi, 54 (Chinese).

Reports indicate that their illegal mining activities have caused severe pollution of the river, which serves as a crucial water source for the surrounding communities.

The suspects are awaiting court proceedings, as confirmed by a statement from the Central North Regional Police Command. During the operation, two excavators with chassis numbers SY 6HK1-XABEA-01-C3 and SWE365E00762 were seized.

The operators of these excavators fled the scene upon seeing the police task force, taking the ignition keys with them.

Additionally, a Toyota Hilux with registration number GE-2743-13 was impounded at the site.

The police are working to transport the excavators to a secure location and are tracking the owners of the equipment to make further arrests.

Former Vice President and 2024 presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has urged party members and supporters to remain calm, resolute, and law-abiding in light of what he described as rising political intimidation.

His call came after the attempted arrest of Member of Parliament for Assin South and Ranking Member of the Defence and Interior Committee, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, by individuals believed to be operatives of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB).

Following a visit to Reverend Fordjour’s residence, Dr. Bawumia reported that the MP remained “in high spirits and undaunted,” despite the incident, which he described as troubling.

“I charge all Party faithful to remain calm, steadfast, and law-abiding in this period of unfortunate political persecution,” Dr. Bawumia said in a message to NPP supporters.

The former Vice President reaffirmed the NPP’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and democratic values, even in the face of provocation, while warning against the misuse of state institutions for partisan purposes.

Dr. Bawumia also renewed his call on President John Dramani Mahama to ensure that security agencies are not exploited as political tools, emphasizing the need for neutrality and professionalism within Ghana’s security services.

“The security institutions of our country must not be reduced to political tools used to harass and intimidate opponents,” he stated, adding that such actions would not be tolerated by the Ghanaian people.

Describing the incident as indicative of a “descent into lawlessness and fear,” Dr. Bawumia stressed the need for accountability and professionalism in the country’s security forces.

He reassured NPP members and supporters of the party’s determination to resist any abuse of power, continuing to champion the principles of democracy, justice, and fair governance.

In a joint effort with key security agencies, the Member of Parliament for Mpraeso, Mr. Davis Ansah Opoku, has reassured the public that the Kwahu region will provide a peaceful and secure environment for this year’s Easter celebrations.

During a press briefing held earlier today, Mr. Opoku confirmed that all necessary preparations had been made to accommodate the large number of visitors expected to flock to the Eastern Region for the annual Kwahu Easter festivities.

“Kwahu is peaceful, and Kwahu is ready,” Mr. Opoku said confidently. “We are excited to host both Ghanaians and international visitors alike. The security services, emergency responders, and local authorities are working hand-in-hand to ensure a safe, vibrant, and memorable experience for all.”

He also expressed optimism about the smooth flow of events and the region’s readiness to receive guests.

Echoing Mr. Opoku’s sentiments, the Eastern North Regional Police Commander, DCOP Isaac Asante, assured the public of the security measures in place for the celebrations. He revealed that over 1,000 police personnel will be deployed across the Kwahu enclave to ensure safety and maintain law and order.

“The region is calm, and we will ensure that peace is upheld throughout the Easter period,” DCOP Asante stated, emphasizing their commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

In addition to the security measures, the Ghana Ambulance Service has announced an extensive emergency response plan, which includes the mobilization of additional ambulances, first responders, and mobile health teams in key activity zones.

This will ensure prompt medical assistance in case of emergencies during the celebrations.

Mr. Opoku also highlighted several key attractions and initiatives for this year’s festivities, including the second edition of the Kwahu Business Forum, aimed at fostering investment opportunities and promoting sustainable growth in the region. He encouraged visitors to take part in the event, which will also provide a platform for local businesses and strategic partnerships.

Additionally, Mr. Opoku invited tourists to experience the famous paragliding event, which has been enhanced for an even better adventure tourism experience.

“Kwahu is home to Ghana’s premier paragliding event, and this year’s edition promises to be the best yet,” he added. As the Easter celebrations approach, Kwahu stands ready to offer a unique blend of safety, excitement, and opportunity for all.

The Ghana Used Clothing Dealers Association, Accra Chapter, has declared a strike action for Thursday, April 10, 2025, in response to what they call “continued defamatory statements and publications” by the OR Foundation.

This foundation has frequently criticized the secondhand clothing trade in Ghana, particularly the activities within the Kantamanto Market.

In a statement, the association accused the OR Foundation of spreading “false, unbalanced, and damaging narratives” about the industry.

They claim these reports have misrepresented their operations and overlooked the significant contributions the used clothing sector makes to the economy, including job creation, poverty reduction, and providing sustainable livelihoods for many Ghanaians.

Speaking to Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Aikins Boakye Mensah, an executive member of the association, said the strike is aimed at defending the dignity of used clothing dealers and protecting the reputation of Ghana.

The dealers are demanding that the OR Foundation stop its defamatory statements and call for responsible and factual reporting on the industry.

The association stressed that they are peaceful traders but will not remain silent in the face of unfair attacks. The objectives of the strike include:

• Demanding an end to defamatory statements from the OR Foundation
• Defending the dignity and livelihood of used clothing dealers in Accra
• Safeguarding Ghana’s image both locally and internationally
• Calling for responsible and factual reporting on the secondhand clothing industry

“We are peaceful traders, but we will not sit silently as our industry and country are unfairly attacked. This strike is a unified action to defend our space, our people, and our country’s reputation” ,” Boakye Mensah said.

A District Magistrate Court in Nalerigu has convicted and sentenced 12 individuals involved in a violent land dispute in the Gbalo community near Chereponi in the Northeast Region.

The court imposed a fine of 400 penalty units—equivalent to GHS 4,800—on each of the convicts, with a default sentence of 18 months in prison. The sentencing followed nearly three years of legal proceedings and was delivered on Wednesday, April 9, 2025.

According to the police, the incident dates back to July 25, 2022, when the convicts—residents of Gbalo—mobilized and launched an attack on the neighboring Sagong/Kukpong community. The assault resulted in multiple houses being torched and significant property damage.

Their arrests came a month later, on August 24, 2022, following an intelligence-led operation by the North East Regional Police Command.

Presiding over the case, His Worship Simon Kofi Bediako found the accused guilty on two counts: conspiracy to commit a crime and causing unlawful damage. The court emphasized the seriousness of their actions and delivered its verdict accordingly.

In a statement, Deputy Superintendent of Police Robert Anabik Anmain, Acting Public Relations Officer, assured the public that the police would not relent in pursuing perpetrators of violence. He urged communities to resolve disputes through peaceful and lawful means.

“Community members are advised to use peaceful and legal means to resolve conflicts and disputes in their communities,” DSP Anmain stated.

The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has refuted claims circulating about a new producer price for cocoa, labelling such reports as false and misleading.

In an official statement issued Thursday, the Board clarified that no price adjustment has been authorized, as the required administrative framework remains incomplete.

COCOBOD highlighted two critical gaps including the absence of functional Board of Directors to approve such a decision.

it also pointed out that the Producer Price Review Committee, which assesses and proposes price changes, is yet to be constituted.

“Without these key bodies operational, any announcement of a new producer price is impossible and unauthorized,” the statement emphasized.

The Board urged the public and media to ignore unverified claims and await official communication through proper channels.

Rev John Ntim Fordjour, Member of Parliament for Assin South and Ranking Member on Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, has expressed gratitude to former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for visiting his residence following what he described as a politically-motivated act of harassment.

Operatives of the National Investigations Bureau on Wednesday April 9 besieged the residence of the MP but their attempt was foiled by members of the minority New Patriotic Party (NPP).

In a post shared on X, Fordjour accused the NDC government of attempting to suppress MPs from exercising their legitimate oversight responsibilities.

“Thank you very much HE Dr Mahamudu Bawumia @MBawumia for the visit to my residence this evening following the politically motivated lawless act of harassment in the attempt of the NDC government to gag MPs from exercising their legitimate oversight,” Fordjour wrote.

The Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC) is set to carry out a demolition exercise today, Thursday, April 10, 2025, targeting structures illegally built on the Weija and Dansoman Ramsar sites.

This operation follows President John Dramani Mahama’s recent tour of Ramsar sites and flood-prone areas in Accra, where he issued a stern warning that structures on protected lands and waterways would be removed.

Speaking at the 2025 National Eid-ul-Fitr celebration at Black Star Square, President Mahama also expressed concern over increasing land encroachment and its contribution to persistent flooding and property loss.

He cautioned against illegal construction on waterways and Ramsar sites, indicating the government’s resolve to take decisive action.

The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, is expected to lead a team of security officers to oversee the demolition exercise.

The initiative aims to clear unauthorized structures, restore natural watercourses, and reduce the risk of flooding during the rainy season.

The Member of Parliament for Assin North, James Gyakye Quayson, has described his acquittal as vindication from a politically motivated trial.

His remarks follow the Accra High Court’s decision on Wednesday, April 9, to acquit and discharge him after more than three years of legal proceedings.

Quayson had been facing charges of forgery and perjury, with allegations that he held Canadian citizenship at the time he filed to contest the 2020 parliamentary elections.

Speaking to journalists after the ruling, Quayson expressed confidence that the truth would prevail, stating that he had always believed in his innocence.

“When you are not wrong, there is nothing you should worry about. No matter where you put the person, they will bounce back. So, that was my reaction, that I know I am innocent. I didn’t come here to bother anybody. I came here to help my community and serve my people,” he said.

The Assin North legislator emphasized that he had taken the necessary steps to comply with all legal requirements ahead of the elections but believes the case was driven by political interests.

“I made sure I did the right thing, but everything seems to be playing politics. We all knew that it was politically motivated. You heard the facts from the judges,” he added.

Quayson’s trial had become a high-profile legal and political matter, drawing national attention due to its implications for parliamentary representation and citizenship laws.

His acquittal marks the end of a prolonged legal battle and a significant moment for his political career.

Gunmen stormed the palace of a local sub-chief in Poayamire, a community in the Binduri District, on the night of Wednesday, April 9, 2025. The attack left one person dead and two others injured.

Among the victims was Naba Atamburi, the sub-chief, along with two of his family members. All three sustained gunshot wounds during the assault.

They were rushed to the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital for emergency treatment, but one of the injured died on the way.

While the motive behind the attack remains unclear, residents believe it may be linked to the ongoing Bawku conflict.

Tensions in the area have heightened in recent weeks, particularly after an alleged police shooting that claimed a life.

Since the resurgence of the conflict in October 2024, at least 83 people have lost their lives in related violence.

Security forces have yet to issue an official statement on the latest incident. Investigations are underway as authorities work to restore calm to the troubled region.