Mr. Divine Selase Agbeti, Acting Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), has revealed a sharp spike in cyberattacks and digital crimes affecting individuals, businesses, and government agencies across the country. He made these remarks at the day two (2) of the National Information Technology Agency’s (NITA) 2025 ICT Week celebration held at the Accra International Conference Centre. According to Mr. Agbeti, the National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) recorded 7,976 cybersecurity-related contacts in just the first half of 2025, a significant jump from the same period in 2024. Of these, 2,008 were confirmed as actual incidents—a staggering 52% year-on-year increase. "The data isn’t just numbers—it reflects the rising digital harm facing ordinary Ghanaians," he said. “From online fraud to cyberbullying, blackmail, and unauthorized access, the threats are becoming more sophisticated and pervasive.” Key Stats from Jan–Jun 2025: He noted that online fraud made up 36% of incidents, including investment scams, fake online shops, and romance fraud. He revealed that cyberbullying accounted for 25%, followed by blackmail (14%), unauthorized access (12%), and data leaks (9%). Total financial losses from cybercrime rose to GHS 14.9 million—a 17% increase from GHS 12.8 million in 2024. In response, the CSA partnered with telecom operators to block 1,380 fraudulent mobile numbers and took down 165 scam-related websites. Additionally, 53 impersonation accounts were removed from social media platforms, including AI-generated videos using images of high-ranking officials like the President. The CSA also issued 15 security advisories—11 for the general public and 4 technical alerts—to bolster awareness and mitigate future risks. Mr. Agbeti emphasized vulnerabilities in the public sector, citing NITA CERT’s findings that over half (51%) of 504 monitored government websites lacked valid SSL certificates. Several others had outdated systems or had been hijacked and redirected to gambling and adult content platforms. Even more alarming, the CSA discovered the login credentials of 35 institutions—including ministries, banks, and universities—being traded on the dark web. “These exposures pose national security risks,” Agbeti warned, calling for urgent reforms in digital hygiene practices. The CSA Chief proposed five critical interventions: 1. Enforce mandatory cybersecurity standards across government and critical infrastructure. 2. Mainstream cyber hygiene into education and public campaigns. 3. Establish a national cybersecurity fund to support ongoing efforts. 4. Develop policies around emerging tech threats like AI and deepfakes. 5. Strengthen partnerships among public agencies, private sector players, and the public. “In today’s interconnected world, cybersecurity is not optional,” Agbeti stated. "It must be a shared responsibility across every layer of society.” Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Director-General of the National Information Technology Agency (NITA), Ing. Dr. Mark-Oliver Kevor, has issued a clarion call for a united national effort in building a digital economy that is both innovative and deeply rooted in trust. He made this appeal during his keynote address on Day Two of the National ICT Week celebration held at the Accra International Conference Centre under the theme “From Policy to Practice: Building Ghana’s Most Trusted Digital Market.” Addressing industry players, development partners, members of the media, and representatives from the broader ICT ecosystem, Dr. Kevor emphasized that trust is no longer a complementary feature but the very foundation of Ghana’s digital future. “We live in an era where trust is the currency of the digital economy. Without trust, no system thrives, no transaction succeeds, and no partnership endures,” he stated. “That is why we must commit to building a digital market that is not just innovative but trustworthy.” Dr. Kevor highlighted that while Ghana has made significant strides in ICT policy development, it is time to move from policy rhetoric to impactful implementation. He noted that Ghana is well-positioned at the heart of Africa’s digital transformation journey, with a youthful population, rising internet penetration, and expanding ICT infrastructure. However, he posed a critical question: “How do we ensure that as we digitize our economy, we also inspire confidence in the systems we build?” The NITA Director-General identified security, transparency, and accountability as the three non-negotiable pillars required to build a trusted digital ecosystem: Security to protect personal and business data against cyber threats. Transparency to ensure fair and predictable digital transactions. Accountability to enforce compliance and build user confidence. Dr. Kevor outlined NITA’s recent efforts aimed at strengthening trust within Ghana’s digital landscape: Cybersecurity Frameworks: In partnership with the Cyber Security Authority, NITA is enhancing national cyber resilience. Digital Governance: Government institutions are being equipped with tools and standards to align with global ICT governance practices. Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborations with industry players are helping to promote responsible innovation while safeguarding consumer interests. To achieve a secure and trustworthy digital market, NITA is prioritizing five key areas: Data Protection and Privacy – Vigorous enforcement of the Data Protection Act to secure citizen information. Digital Identity and Authentication – Expansion of secure national ID systems for trusted transactions. Standardization and Compliance – Ensuring interoperability and efficiency across platforms. Consumer Education – Promoting digital literacy and safe online practices. Innovation with Integrity – Supporting technologies that prioritize security and inclusiveness. Dr. Kevor issued a direct call to all actors within the ICT space: To industry stakeholders: Uphold the highest data protection and cybersecurity standards. To policymakers: Enact and enforce laws that foster innovation while maintaining user trust. To citizens: Be responsible digital users and demand transparency from service providers. And to NITA itself: Continue to lead with integrity and ensure no one is left behind in Ghana’s digital journey. Referencing remarks from Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang—delivered on her behalf by Political Advisor Mr. Ofosu Ampofo—Dr. Kevor reiterated Ghana’s commitment to the AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol, which promotes a continent-wide framework for secure and trusted digital trade. “By harmonizing our regulatory frameworks with continental standards, we are strengthening cybersecurity, protecting data privacy, and building the confidence needed for businesses and consumers to thrive,” he said. Dr. Kevor underscored that trust is not a destination but a continuous journey requiring collaboration, vigilance, and innovation. “Together, we can make Ghana the benchmark for a secure, inclusive, and trusted digital future,” he concluded to resounding applause. The 2025 National ICT Week celebration continues through the week, bringing together stakeholders to deliberate on Ghana’s role in shaping Africa’s digital economy. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Director-General of the National Information Technology Authority (NITA), Dr. Mark-Oliver Kevor, has issued a stern warning to online business operators, stating that any e-commerce platform that refuses to be accredited under the upcoming regulatory framework will not be allowed to operate in Ghana. Speaking at the 2025 National ICT Week celebration in Accra, Dr. Kevor emphasized the government’s commitment to restoring trust and security in Ghana’s digital commerce space. Themed “Ghana as Africa’s Digital Trade Hub—Innovation, Policy, and Partnerships for the Future,” the event brought together key players in the tech ecosystem to deliberate on the country’s digital trade ambitions. “Many Ghanaians have lost hope in online businesses due to unlawful trading,” Dr. Kevor noted. "We want to create an enabling environment for online businesses to thrive and also build confidence in customers. Any online business that refuses to be accredited will not be allowed to trade.” The upcoming accreditation system, spearheaded by NITA, will serve as a digital trust mark, assuring consumers that certified businesses meet standards of security, transparency, and accountability. Dr. Kevor explained that the initiative is a critical part of Ghana’s broader digital transformation agenda, which includes flagship programs such as the ICT for Girls initiative, the One Million Coders project, and collaborations with tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Huawei. He stressed that the move to regulate e-commerce is not just about enforcement, but also about nurturing an ecosystem where innovation, safety, and consumer confidence drive digital growth. As part of the National ICT Week activities, stakeholders are also discussing key reforms needed to position Ghana as a leading digital trade hub in Africa. These include: Strengthening digital trust through the Digital Trust Framework Showcasing innovations in digital payments, logistics, and e-commerce Rolling out a national Data Exchange Hub and robust Data Governance Framework Attracting global investors and fostering public-private partnerships Dr. Kevor concluded by reiterating that the regulatory framework is intended to "consolidate Ghana’s role as a secure, innovative, and reliable digital trade hub for Africa." The new measures are expected to be rolled out in the coming months, with NITA leading the charge in vetting and certifying online businesses across the country. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Retired Wing Commander, Patrick Nelson Sorgborjor has called for calm and restraint in the face of public speculation following the recent tragic military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight individuals, including Ghana's Ministers of Defense and Environment. In an interview monitored by Thinknewsonline.com , the respected retired pilot and former Ghana Air Force officer emphasized that investigations into such military air incidents are governed by strict technical procedures and classified protocols, not public commentary. “Let us be patient. We must wait for the findings of the black box. No one can determine the cause of the crash by mere speculation,” he stated, stressing that neither the pilot nor the aircraft crew would ever intentionally put themselves in harm’s way. According to Wing Commander Sorgborzojor, the public’s reaction—marked by conspiracy theories, misinformation, and technical assumptions—has been “unhelpful and uninformed.” He clarified that before any military flight, a thorough pre-flight check is conducted, not only by technicians but also by the pilots themselves. “No pilot takes off with an aircraft unless everything checks out,” he affirmed. “Even if there’s a minor fault, the mission is aborted. Especially for an all-weather certified pilot, there are standards and safety protocols that are rigorously followed before, during, and after a flight.” Addressing rumors that passengers made distress calls during the crash, the veteran aviator dismissed the claims as baseless, adding that communication in such aircraft is controlled and regulated. “Mobile phones do not work midair like that. And a civilian on board wouldn’t have the technical understanding to assess or report what’s going wrong in the cockpit,” he explained. "The only person capable of making decisions is the pilot, who at that moment, would be doing everything to save lives.” Touching on concerns regarding the Z-9 helicopter's reliability — the aircraft involved in the incident — Commander Sorgborjor noted that every aircraft model is configured differently and that flight performance often depends on maintenance and pilot handling, not just manufacturing origin. “Every aircraft type has limitations clearly stated in black and white,” he said. “What happened in other countries like Pakistan or Nigeria with Z-9s may not be the same here. Each incident is peculiar to its own circumstances.” He further stressed that Ghana operates several Z-9s and that the aircraft in question would have undergone routine checks before its assignment. The suggestion that the crash stemmed from negligence or a substandard aircraft is speculative at best, he said. Commander Sorgborjor also clarified why the public may never receive full details of the crash investigation. “Military aircraft crash reports are classified unless the authorities decide otherwise,” he said. “Since the Air Force’s inception in 1959, several incidents have occurred. How many times have you seen those reports in the media? That’s the nature of military operations.” He noted that while civilians may demand accountability and answers, investigations involving military assets are not subject to the same transparency as civil aviation. Reflecting on his 82 years of life and decades of experience in military aviation, Wing Commander Sorgborjor shared that Ghana has experienced many aviation tragedies before — some involving fellow airmen under his watch — but public reactions were never as politically charged or speculative as they are today. “I understand the grief and curiosity,” he said. "But I urge Ghanaians to allow the professionals to complete their investigations. No one wants to hide the truth, but some things are not for public consumption. Let’s respect that.” The retired commander concluded by honoring the fallen crew and officials, describing the incident as a heartbreaking loss for the nation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to creating a more conducive environment for increased Japanese investment, as part of efforts to deepen bilateral relations between the two nations. He gave the assurance during a high-level bilateral meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru on Wednesday, August 20, on the sidelines of the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD-9) in Japan. The two leaders discussed a wide range of issues, including strengthening diplomatic ties, economic cooperation, and support for international development initiatives. They emphasized the need to expand trade and investment opportunities and build on the longstanding Ghana–Japan partnership. Prime Minister Ishiba expressed his heartfelt condolences to the people of Ghana following the tragic August 6 accident that claimed the lives of eight individuals, including Ghana’s Ministers of Defense and Environment. He praised Ghana’s resilience and pledged Japan’s continued solidarity during this period of national mourning. Highlighting Japan’s long-standing engagement with Ghana, Prime Minister Ishiba noted that President Mahama’s past experience at the Japanese Embassy in Accra offered a strong foundation for enhanced collaboration between the two countries. In response, President Mahama thanked Japan for its show of empathy and reiterated Ghana’s readiness to work with Japan across key development sectors, including agriculture, education, healthcare, and infrastructure. He also lauded Japan’s support for African development through the TICAD platform and encouraged Japanese companies to take advantage of emerging opportunities in Ghana’s investment landscape. Prime Minister Ishiba, however, called for Ghana’s assistance in addressing challenges faced by Japanese businesses operating in the country. President Mahama assured him of Ghana’s commitment to tackling bottlenecks and providing an investor-friendly environment to attract more Japanese enterprises. The two leaders also touched on broader regional and global issues, reaffirming their joint commitment to promoting peace, stability, and inclusive growth. Looking ahead, they pledged to deepen bilateral ties in the lead-up to major anniversaries in 2027 — including the 100th anniversary of Dr. Hideyo Noguchi’s voyage to Ghana, the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Ghana and Japan, and the 50th anniversary of Japan’s JICA Overseas Cooperation Volunteers program in Ghana. President Mahama was accompanied at the meeting by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa, Minister for Roads and Highways Kwame Governs Agbodza, and Senior Presidential Adviser Joyce Bawa Mogtari. The two leaders are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding on Thursday as part of the TICAD-9 framework, before President Mahama delivers his official address at the conference’s plenary session. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana’s Minister of Health, Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has strongly condemned any form of violence or harassment against health professionals, calling for calm and clarity following the recent altercation involving a man identified as Ralph and a nurse at the Greater Accra Regional (Ridge) Hospital. Addressing the media on Thursday, Mr. Akandoh outlined the chronology of events leading up to and following the much-publicised incident, and reaffirmed government’s commitment to protecting healthcare workers across the country. “Let me make it clear: irrespective of the level of provocation at any health facility in this country, nobody — absolutely nobody — has the right to attack any health professional,” the Minister stressed. According to him, following initial reports of the incident, he dispatched a delegation to the Ridge Hospital to ascertain the facts. After being debriefed, he felt compelled to personally visit the facility, accompanied by the Deputy Director-General and other top officials from the Ministry of Health. During the visit, Mr. Akandoh toured the hospital, visited the affected nurse, and held a closed-door meeting with management to discuss security concerns and staff welfare. He stated that the conversation was focused on solutions and internal improvements, not public confrontations or blame games. "We discussed key issues including internal security and staffing,” he said. "After the meeting, I addressed the press to assure the public and the health community that we are taking the necessary steps to ensure such incidents do not repeat.” The Minister disclosed that he has constituted a committee to investigate the incident thoroughly and present actionable recommendations. Mr. Akandoh also addressed the controversial moment when he was seen shaking hands with Ralph, the man reportedly at the centre of the altercation. He clarified that the handshake was a matter of courtesy and public duty, and not a dismissal of the seriousness of the incident. “Even if someone is being prosecuted or serving a sentence, if they stretch their hand to greet me, as a public officer, I am obliged to respond. That doesn’t mean I condone wrongdoing, nor does it halt any measures we are putting in place to seek justice,” he explained. In a lighter moment during the press conference, the Minister addressed public jests about his background as a farmer. “Yes, I’m a poor farmer. In fact, I’m one of the biggest rice farmers in the country, and I’m proud of that. But these distractions will not derail the work we have to do,” he added. Mr. Akandoh urged the public and political actors to refrain from politicising the incident or attempting to incite health workers against the government. “Any attempt by individuals or groups to pretend they care more about health workers than the government is not helpful. We must avoid unnecessary tensions. It doesn’t help the sector,” he cautioned. The Minister reassured health professionals of the government’s unwavering support, and affirmed that investigations will be conducted with fairness, professionalism, and urgency. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Charles Nii Armah Mensah , popularly known as Shatta Wale , has failed to identify the individual from whom he claims to have purchased a luxury 2019 Lamborghini Urus, which United States authorities have linked to a $4 million fraud case, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has disclosed. The vehicle, which was seized by EOCO in May 2025, has been flagged by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) as a substitute asset in a criminal case involving one Nana Kwabena Amuah — a Ghanaian national currently serving a prison sentence in the US for fraud and money laundering. According to the Head of Public Affairs for the Acting Executive Director of EOCO, Shatta Wale informed investigators that he bought the Lamborghini for $150,000 from an unidentified individual known only as “ZAK”, whom he allegedly met on the street. The artiste was unable to provide any valid documentation for the purchase, nor could he verify the seller’s full name, identity, or contact information. “He claims the person contacted him via WhatsApp but he has since discarded the number and has no further means of identifying the person,” the EOCO spokesperson stated. Shatta Wale also failed to present any purchase receipt, ownership transfer documents, or proof of payment. The only document in his possession is a customs declaration that bears the name of Nana Kwabena Amuah — the convicted fraudster whose assets are currently under US forfeiture orders. The probe forms part of a broader investigation by US authorities into possible co-conspirators in Ghana connected to a transnational fraud ring. Acting on a request from the FBI and DOJ, EOCO began local efforts to locate and recover the Lamborghini Urus in question. The vehicle was eventually traced to Shatta Wale’s possession. On August 15, 2025, the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Central Division of Lexington, issued an official Order Forfeiting Substitute Asset, authorising the US Government to take possession of the Lamborghini in Ghana as restitution for the crime. In response to Shatta Wale’s public comments claiming ownership of the vehicle, EOCO issued a formal invitation to him on August 5, 2025, asking that he report for questioning. The initial appointment scheduled for August 13 was rescheduled at the request of his legal counsel to August 20 at 11 a.m.  However, Shatta Wale reported to EOCO's office around 3 p.m. and refused to cooperate until his counsel arrived. Despite the delay, EOCO investigators proceeded with a full interrogation session that concluded around 9 p.m., with some staff staying past working hours to ensure the interview was completed. Following the interrogation, Shatta Wale was granted bail in the sum of GHC10 million, with two sureties to be justified. EOCO stated that it would conduct a standard surety inspection upon presentation of the guarantors before releasing him from custody. “This is standard EOCO protocol. Once the sureties are verified, Mr. Mensah will be released as investigations continue,” the Head of Public Affairs clarified. Shatta Wale remains a person of interest in the ongoing investigations into the proceeds of crime and the suspected concealment of criminal property. EOCO emphasised that the matter is still under investigation, and further actions will be taken as more facts come to light. The agency has also reiterated its commitment to supporting international partners in dismantling cross-border financial crime networks. EOCO is working closely with the FBI and DOJ to trace and recover assets acquired through fraudulent schemes affecting US citizens and institutions. The collaboration is part of a wider transnational law enforcement initiative aimed at addressing money laundering and illicit financial flows between the US and Ghana. The agency has assured the public of its neutrality and professionalism in handling the matter, stressing that due process will be followed at all stages of the investigation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has assured journalists of their safety and protection ahead of the upcoming Akwatia by-election. The IGP also urged police officers nationwide to treat members of the media with respect and restraint. This reassurance comes on the heels of a recent incident in which a journalist was assaulted by a police officer during the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun in July—a development that sparked concern among media professionals and civil society groups. Addressing the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) during a stakeholder meeting in Accra on Wednesday, August 20, the IGP acknowledged the indispensable role journalists play in promoting transparency and accountability during elections. "All we are telling police personnel countrywide is that the brothers and sisters who hold the camera and the phones to take whatever they want during the election time—I think there is a level to which they can go, but you have to be moderate in handling them,” the IGP said. He emphasized that journalists serve as the eyes and ears of the nation during election periods, providing critical updates to the public and shaping national discourse. “Without them, the rest of the people who are at home watching—they cannot see what is going on. Some of us, we have reached this stage, and without the media, nobody would have heard of our name,” he added. Reiterating the Police Service’s commitment to media freedom and safety, the IGP gave his personal assurance to members of the GJA and the broader press corps. “We will make sure that we will protect you,” he said firmly. The meeting formed part of ongoing engagements between the Police Administration and key stakeholders to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and secure electoral process in Akwatia. It also underscored the Ghana Police Service’s intention to rebuild trust and strengthen collaboration with the media following past tensions. The Akwatia by-election is expected to draw national attention, and the role of journalists in covering events fairly and safely remains a key concern for both security agencies and the media fraternity.

The Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Manso Opuni, has announced a bold digital transformation agenda aimed at enhancing service delivery and stakeholder engagement. Speaking at the Authority’s 2024 Annual Stakeholder Meeting held on Wednesday, August 20, Prof. Frimpong-Manso emphasized that the FDA is leveraging cutting-edge digital platforms to achieve more timely and efficient responses to clients and stakeholders. “We are looking at cutting-edge digital platforms with the ultimate goal of responding to our clients and stakeholders in a timely manner,” he stated, stressing the importance of technology in driving regulatory excellence. This year’s meeting was held under the theme: “Improving Productivity and Efficiency Through Digitalisation and Staff Commitment.” Prof. Frimpong-Manso revealed that the newly deployed Governor FDA Integrated Regulatory Management System (GFM) now allows applicants to file and track regulatory submissions online, significantly reducing delays. He also highlighted ongoing collaborations with global partners—including the EU, Gates Foundation, WHO, and GIZ—to establish advanced laboratories, build a secure data center, and support regional capacity-building initiatives. Citing improved laboratory accreditations and expanded testing capabilities, he assured stakeholders of the FDA’s commitment to ensuring public health and regulatory integrity in Ghana and across the sub-region. “We are working hard to reset regulation in Ghana,” he said, “and to build the better regulatory regime we all want.” On her part Director for Public Enterprise Secretariat, Lovia Bamfo noted that the Food and Drugs Authority’s (FDA) critical role in safeguarding public health is not only a regulatory mandate but a cornerstone of Ghana’s national development. Ms. Bamfo commended the Authority for its unwavering dedication to protecting the health and well-being of Ghanaians, describing the institution as an “uncompromising guardian of public health.” “The prosperity we seek as a nation is directly linked to the health of our citizenry." "The FDA’s work touches every aspect of our lives—from the food on our tables to the medicines we take and even the cosmetics we use daily,” she noted. Ms. Bamfo praised the FDA’s commitment to transparency and collaboration, adding that its openness to feedback from regulatory partners, civil society, and the international community reflects a progressive approach to public service. “By shifting from a one-way command-and-control model to a two-way dialogue with stakeholders, the FDA is building trust—a far more effective tool than enforcement alone,” she said. She also highlighted the Authority’s recent achievement of World Health Organization Maturity Level 3 (WHO ML3) status as a significant milestone. "This achievement is not just a badge of honor for the FDA. It is a strategic national asset that signals to the world that Ghana’s regulatory system is robust, mature, and dependable,” she emphasized. Presenting some updates, Head of Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation at the FDA, Afua Amoako-Mensah, said the Authority is intensifying efforts to ensure compliance with food hygiene standards under its Street Food Vending Permit Scheme. “In the year under review, we trained 3,510 food vendors and issued 1,094 permits" "However, many vendors failed to complete the process by securing health certificates despite follow-up reminders,” She stressed that the FDA is also collaborating with border security agencies to clamp down on non-compliant products entering the country The meeting, which brought together stakeholders from the Ministries of Finance and Health, exporters, importers, and community leaders, focused on strategies to strengthen productivity and safeguard public health. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, together with members of the Police Management Board (POMAB), has held a high-level engagement with key stakeholders to discuss security arrangements for the upcoming Akwatia By-Election. The meeting, which took place on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, focused on ensuring peace, law, and order before, during, and after the polls. Representatives of political parties were present and commended the Ghana Police Service for initiating the dialogue. They also underscored the importance of fairness and transparency in security deployment to build trust in the electoral process. The engagement provided an opportunity for the Police to outline their security strategy and receive feedback from the parties involved. This, the Police noted, forms part of a broader stakeholder collaboration aimed at fostering peaceful elections. Earlier, on August 12, the IGP and his team held talks with the Electoral Commission (EC) to discuss a coordinated roadmap for the by-election. The EC shared its operational plans and discussed how to align efforts with the Police to ensure a smooth electoral process. As part of ongoing stakeholder engagements, the Police also met with the Institute of Democratic Governance (IDEG) on August 13 at the National Police Headquarters. IDEG highlighted concerns related to electoral transparency, security, and the importance of collaborative stakeholder involvement in sustaining public confidence. The Ghana Police Service has reaffirmed its commitment to continuous engagement with all relevant stakeholders as it finalizes operational strategies for the Akwatia By-Election, with the overarching goal of safeguarding peace and ensuring a credible electoral process. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Police Service has made a major breakthrough in its investigation into the recent Mpohor gold shop robbery, following the recovery of weapons, ammunition, and other critical exhibits believed to be linked to the crime. According to a police statement, the discovery was made during intensified anti-robbery patrols by officers from the Kuntanase District in the Ashanti Region. The patrol team intercepted a suspicious white Toyota Sienta vehicle parked along the Aputuoagya–Bekwai road. Two unidentified men standing near the vehicle reportedly fled into a nearby bush upon sighting the police. A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the recovery of an AK-47 assault rifle, a locally manufactured firearm, two loaded AK-47 magazines (each containing 30 rounds), additional packets of ammunition, cowrie shells, a Huawei smartphone, identity cards, and several clothing items. Significantly, police say a comparison of the recovered clothing with CCTV footage from the Mpohor robbery scene revealed a clear resemblance. The hooded tops and wellington boots found in the car closely match those worn by the suspects during the armed attack. “This recovery is a major stride in the ongoing investigations,” the police said, adding that forensic examinations and intelligence analysis are currently underway. The police have assured the public that security operations have been ramped up nationwide to track down the fleeing suspects and ensure their swift arrest and prosecution. The robbery, which shocked residents of Mpohor in the Western Region, saw armed men storm a local gold shop, making away with valuables under the threat of gunfire. The latest development is expected to boost public confidence as the manhunt for the perpetrators continues. The Ghana Police Service has called on the public to provide any information that could aid in the arrest of the suspects. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

News coming in indicates that President John Dramani Mahama has named former Auditor-General and celebrated anti-corruption advocate, Daniel Yaw Domelevo, as the new Board Chairman of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). US-based Ghanaian legal scholar, Prof. Stephen Kwaku Asare, also known as Kwaku Azar took to his social media platform to break the news. Mr. Domelevo’s return to public service follows his controversial exit in 2020 under the Akufo-Addo administration, which forced him to proceed on an extended leave. His new role places him at the helm of EOCO, currently headed by investigative journalist Raymond Archer, to help steer the agency's mandate of combating economic and organised crime. The Facebook post has sparked considerable public interest. Many believe the appointment if true marks a significant moment in Ghana’s anti-corruption drive. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith