NACOC Boss Raises Alarm Over Public Demand for Rewards in Exchange for Drug Crime Tips
The Director-General of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Major General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, has voiced concern over a growing trend among some members of the public who now demand financial rewards before sharing information on suspected drug activities. Speaking before Parliament’s Assurances Committee on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, Major General Mantey highlighted the critical importance of citizen intelligence in the fight against narcotics trafficking. His remarks come amid renewed scrutiny of Ghana’s role in international drug trafficking, following the recent seizure of 320 kilogrammes of methamphetamine hidden in a charcoal shipment from Ghana and intercepted in Australia. Major General Mantey stressed that drug traffickers are constantly developing new tactics to evade law enforcement, making close cooperation between NACOC and the public more essential than ever. “Each day, the traffickers evolve new strategies and try to go ahead of us. They connect, and they cooperate among themselves as to how to outwit them,” he explained. While NACOC relies heavily on intelligence from the public to disrupt drug networks, Major General Mantey expressed concern about the expectation of monetary compensation attached to some tips. “Ghanaians now have become a bit demanding so when they send you intelligence, they demand money,” he noted, recalling an incident where an individual sought a house in exchange for providing information. Despite these challenges, Major General Mantey assured the Assurances Committee that the Commission remains committed to working with citizens and all stakeholders in the ongoing battle against narcotics trafficking. He said the agency would continue to pursue intelligence-led operations, even as traffickers adapt with new methods and networks. These comments come as Ghanaian security agencies intensify efforts to disrupt international drug networks, following a series of cases involving narcotics shipments linked to Ghana. Authorities, including Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak, have consistently encouraged citizens to provide credible information to support anti-drug operations, emphasizing that public intelligence plays a vital role in successful drug busts. Major General Mantey concluded that continued collaboration between NACOC and the public would be crucial in preventing Ghana from becoming a transit hub for international drug trafficking. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Auditor-General Uncovers Over GH¢7.4 Million Paid to Deceased Pensioners
The Auditor-General has revealed a troubling case of payroll irregularities, uncovering that more than GH¢7.4 million was paid out to four deceased pensioners, sparking renewed concerns about lapses in Ghana’s pension administration system. Details of this finding are contained in the latest Report of the Auditor-General on the Public Accounts of Ghana for Ministries, Departments and Other Agencies (MDAs) for the year ended December 31, 2025. According to the report, a total of GH¢7,494,975.34 was disbursed to the four pensioners after their deaths between February 2019 and March 2026, a clear violation of Regulation 88 of the Public Financial Management Regulations, 2019 (L.I. 2378). In response, the Auditor-General has recommended that the Controller and Accountant-General recover the full amount, along with interest calculated at the prevailing Bank of Ghana rate, from the next-of-kin of the deceased pensioners. Any funds recovered are to be paid into the Auditor-General’s Recoveries Account at the Bank of Ghana. The report further cautions that if the money cannot be recovered, legal proceedings should be initiated against both the bankers involved and the next-of-kin of the deceased pensioners. This revelation is part of a broader pattern of payroll irregularities identified in the 2025 audit of MDAs, as the Auditor-General intensifies efforts to strengthen accountability and protect public funds. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Cancels South African President’s State Visit Over Xenophobic Attack Concerns
The Government of Ghana has declined a planned state visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, citing mounting concerns over the killing of a Ghanaian national and reports of xenophobic attacks targeting Ghanaians in South Africa. The decision comes in the aftermath of the death of 40-year-old Bashiru Isak, who Ghanaian authorities say was killed during demonstrations linked to renewed violence against foreign nationals in South Africa on June 30, 2026. Officials in Accra indicated that the move was necessary due to growing fears for the safety of Ghanaians living in South Africa and the urgent need to address repeated incidents of violence against foreigners. President Ramaphosa was scheduled to visit Ghana in the first week of August, a visit that was expected to strengthen bilateral ties and facilitate discussions on measures to tackle attacks against foreign nationals. However, Ghana’s government stressed that the current climate demanded attention before any high-level diplomatic engagement could proceed. Ghana has formally lodged a protest with South African authorities over the death of Mr. Isak and the wider issue of security for Ghanaian nationals in South Africa. According to Ghanaian officials, Mr. Isak was shot and killed during what they described as “anti-immigrant demonstrations” in Cape Town’s Khayelitsha township. South African authorities, however, have strongly disputed Ghana’s version of events, calling the claims “factually incorrect” and insisting that no deaths were reported during the June 30 protests, which drew thousands of demonstrators across the country. South Africa’s Justice Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, criticised Ghana’s statements as misleading and warned against perpetuating a negative narrative about South Africa. The diplomatic row has reignited debate over the safety of African nationals in South Africa, with Ghana urging for stronger protections for its citizens abroad and renewed efforts to prevent further attacks. Historically, Ghana and South Africa have enjoyed strong ties in trade, investment, and diplomacy, but the recent dispute has introduced tensions as both countries seek to address the latest incident and its implications for their relationship. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
LIONS OF NPP: Party Security Group Explains Black Attire and Purpose
Abure Anthony, the leader of the newly launched “LIONS OF NPP”, a security group affiliated with the New Patriotic Party, has shed light on the reasons behind their distinctive black attire and clarified the group’s mission. Speaking to Apexnewsgh, Anthony explained that the choice of black clothing is purely practical, not symbolic of militancy or intimidation. “We chose black because our work takes us into villages, often riding motorcycles. The roads are dusty, and black helps keep us looking neat while we’re on the move,” Anthony said. He emphasized that the group’s main responsibility is to mobilize and educate voters across communities, supporting the party and its candidates, particularly in the lead-up to the 2028 elections. Anthony addressed public concerns about the group’s purpose, especially in light of past experiences with party-affiliated security outfits. He made it clear that LIONS OF NPP is not a militant or violent group. “We are not using weapons, nor are we being trained to fight. Our only tool is our ability to engage with people and encourage them to vote for our party. If disagreements arise, we aim to resolve them peacefully through dialogue.” He further noted that the group operates within the laws of Ghana and respects the country’s regulations, including the Vigilantism Act. The LIONS OF NPP, according to Anthony, is preparing to officially register with the party and will operate under its oversight. He further emphasized that membership in the group is open to anyone, regardless of background or gender, as long as they demonstrate integrity and maturity. Anthony explained that prospective members are observed over time to ensure they align with the group’s values of peaceful engagement and community service. Currently, the LIONS OF NPP is focused on activities in the Bolgatanga Central constituency but is open to expansion across the region. Their goal, Anthony reiterated, is to serve as a disciplined, volunteer force supporting the party’s outreach and campaign efforts without resorting to violence or intimidation. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Police recover ¢140,000 and AK-47 rifle after robbery at Lashibi
The Sakumono District Police Command has recovered GH¢140,000 and an AK-47 assault rifle following a robbery incident involving a mobile money vendor at Lashibi on 3 July 2026. Preliminary investigations indicate that the victim was attacked by two armed men on a motorbike while returning home from work with a bag containing GH¢140,000. The suspects allegedly opened fire on the victim’s vehicle, damaging the right rear tyre and front windscreen before making away with the cash. Investigations further show that after seizing the money and attempting to flee, the suspects were fired upon by the complainant. One of the suspects was killed at the scene, while the second escaped, abandoning the stolen bag, which was later recovered by police. The complainant was not injured. A search on the deceased suspect led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, two magazines containing a total of 55 rounds of live ammunition, an additional 11 rounds of live ammunition, GH¢3,000 in cash, a Samsung mobile phone, and an identity card bearing the name Innocent Elemuwa Akachukeu, aged 46. Police also retrieved five spent AK-47 shells and two spent pistol shells from the scene. The body of the deceased has been deposited at the Police Hospital mortuary for preservation, autopsy and identification. The Regional Police Command has taken over investigations, while efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspect. The Accra Regional Police Command has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling violent crime and urged the public to provide information that may assist in locating the suspect still at large, through the nearest police station or emergency numbers 18555 and 191. Source: Classfmonline
Ghana Settles US$700 Million Eurobond Ahead of Schedule, Boosting Investor Confidence
The Government of Ghana has made headlines by fully settling a US$700 million Eurobond obligation ahead of schedule, a move the Ministry of Finance says demonstrates the country’s commitment to prudent public debt management and macroeconomic stability. According to a statement from the Ministry, the payment, completed on Thursday, July 2, 2026, comprised US$525.2 million in principal repayments and US$174.8 million in interest payments. This latest settlement brings Ghana’s total payments to Eurobond holders to US$2.1 billion since January 2025, reflecting the country’s ongoing efforts under its Eurobond Debt Exchange Programme. The Ministry of Finance emphasized that the repayment was carried out through the government’s planned financing arrangements, avoiding any undue pressure on Ghana’s foreign exchange reserves. “The payment was made through the Government’s planned financing arrangements without undue pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves,” the Ministry noted. Government officials believe this early repayment will further reduce Ghana’s outstanding external debt burden and strengthen investor confidence as the country continues to advance fiscal and macroeconomic reforms. The Ministry highlighted that meeting the Eurobond obligation ahead of schedule underscores the government’s dedication to maintaining sound public debt management practices and safeguarding macroeconomic stability as Ghana implements its economic recovery programme. This milestone payment comes as Ghana works to restore international investor confidence following the successful completion of its external debt restructuring and the ongoing implementation of reforms under the IMF Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI). The Ministry of Finance reiterated its commitment to sound public financial management, vowing to continue timely servicing of the country’s debt obligations while prioritizing fiscal sustainability. The Ministry also extended its appreciation to Ghanaians for their patience, support, and continued confidence as the government pursues policies aimed at restoring economic stability and rebuilding market trust. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Attorney-General Lays Tribunal Bill 2026 in Parliament to Revive Public Tribunals
The Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, has taken a significant step toward reforming Ghana’s justice system by laying the Tribunal Bill 2026 before Parliament. The new bill aims to reintroduce public tribunals, with the goal of strengthening the administration of justice and expanding access to courts across the country. If passed, the Tribunal Bill 2026 will establish a reformed tribunal system to operate alongside the existing traditional courts. The proposed system will have clear constitutional backing, comprehensive oversight structures, and robust safeguards to ensure due process and the protection of human rights. The legislation seeks to bring into effect provisions under Article 126 of the Constitution, which provides for the establishment of tribunals within Ghana’s judicial system—a provision that has largely gone dormant in recent years. Dr. Ayine explained that the reforms are designed to address current gaps in the legal framework, reduce the backlog of cases in the courts, and expand access to justice. Importantly, the new system will also allow for greater citizen participation in the adjudication process. Under the proposed law, a two-tier tribunal structure will be established, comprising Regional and District Tribunals. These tribunals will become part of the judiciary under the supervision of the Judicial Council and a newly established Tribunal Oversight Committee. Regional Tribunals, according to the bill, will have concurrent original jurisdiction with the High Court over selected criminal matters. These include cases involving economic crimes, narcotics offences, tax-related offences, customs violations, and offences concerning the loss of state funds or property. District Tribunals, on the other hand, will share concurrent jurisdiction with Circuit Courts over specific criminal matters, but will exclude offences such as treason, capital offences, and cases triable on indictment. Certain cases are specifically excluded from the tribunal system, including those involving constitutional interpretation under Article 130, human rights violations, and any matters expressly excluded by law. The bill also sets out guiding principles for tribunal operations, emphasizing fairness, transparency, efficiency, independence, and respect for fundamental human rights. Decisions from the tribunals will be subject to appellate review. The proposal outlines detailed governance arrangements, covering the appointment, discipline, retirement, and removal of tribunal members, as well as instituting a code of conduct to guide their work. Dr. Ayine emphasized that these reforms are intended to address longstanding concerns about public tribunals by anchoring the new system in constitutional safeguards and the principles of due process. The Tribunal Bill 2026 has had its first reading in Parliament and has been referred to the Constitutional and Legal Affairs and Judiciary Committees for further consideration. Just last week, the Attorney-General met with the joint committee to deliberate on the key proposals, marking a crucial step in the journey toward tribunal reform. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Upper East NDC Demands Immediate Repairs to Defective Sumbrugu–Namong Road
The Upper East Regional Communication Bureau of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) has called on the Ghana Highway Authority to compel contractors responsible for the reconstruction of the Sumbrungu–Namong Road to immediately rectify what it describes as serious structural defects on the project. According to the party, sections of the approximately 11-kilometre road, which were reportedly completed less than two years ago, have already developed extensive defects, raising concerns over the quality of workmanship, materials used, and compliance with approved engineering standards. The NDC noted that the road project, valued at over GH¢50.8 million, was executed in four separate lots by Gbanzab Co. Ltd, Hajisam Ventures Ltd, Dot Sky Invest., and Salabahs Ent. It argued that the rapid deterioration of the road represents a waste of public resources and a betrayal of the communities expected to benefit from the infrastructure. The party further demanded that the Ghana Highway Authority ensure all four contractors return to their respective sections within two weeks to carry out remedial works at no additional cost to the taxpayer. It also urged the Authority to withhold payments, enforce contractual obligations, and impose appropriate sanctions on any contractor that fails to address the identified defects. The Upper East NDC stressed that quality infrastructure is essential to national development and pledged to continue advocating for accountability, transparency, and value for money in the execution of public projects. The statement was signed by Jonathan Abdallah Salifu, Upper East Regional Communications Officer of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC). Read the full release below: Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Over 100 Buildings Collapse as Floods Displace Nearly 1,900 in Samreboi – NADMO
The Wassa Amenfi Municipal Directorate of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has disclosed that approximately 100 buildings have completely collapsed in Samreboi following devastating recent floods, with an additional 20 structures partially destroyed. The aftermath has left large sections of the community unsafe for habitation as recovery and relief efforts continue. According to the Deputy Municipal NADMO Director, Christopher Bevel, nearly 1,900 residents have been affected and remain displaced as a result of the disaster. “We have about 100 buildings that are totally collapsed with 20 partially collapsed. For the population which was affected by the flood, it is about 1,900 for now. Although the floodwaters have receded, the houses are currently not safe for habitation,” The flooding was triggered by heavy rainfall, which caused the Samre and Tano rivers to overflow their banks. The resulting deluge swept through Samreboi, leading to widespread destruction of property and displacement of residents. While the water levels have since dropped, NADMO has cautioned that the structural damage and potential contamination mean that it is still unsafe for people to return to their homes. Authorities continue to assess the full extent of the damage and coordinate relief for those displaced, as the community works to recover from one of the worst flooding incidents in its history. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Supreme Court Dismisses All Suits Over Removal of Former Chief Justice Torkornoo
The Supreme Court has unanimously dismissed all four suits challenging the constitutional process that led to the removal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, bringing to an end month of legal battles over one of Ghana’s most closely watched judicial controversies. On Thursday, July 2, a seven-member panel of the highest court delivered its verdict, upholding the legality of the proceedings that culminated in Justice Torkornoo’s ousting from office. The court’s decision marks a definitive conclusion to a heated national debate and affirms the procedures followed in the removal process. The four separate legal challenges came from various parties, including the former Chief Justice herself, Old Tafo MP Vincent Ekow Assafuah, the Centre for Citizenship, Constitutional and Electoral Systems, and Theodore Kofi Atta Quartey. Each sought constitutional interpretations regarding the suspension and removal of a Chief Justice, arguing that due process had not been observed and that certain aspects of the removal procedure violated the 1992 Constitution. Justice Torkornoo was removed following a suspension by President John Dramani Mahama, after which a committee of inquiry was established under Article 146 of the Constitution to investigate petitions filed against her. The process triggered spirited public debate, with legal experts, civil society groups, and political parties expressing divergent views about its implications for judicial independence and constitutional governance. With the Supreme Court’s ruling, all domestic legal challenges to Justice Torkornoo’s removal have now been dismissed. This decision follows closely on the heels of a similar outcome at the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice, which also rejected Justice Torkornoo’s claims that her rights had been violated during the suspension and removal process, further bolstering the state’s legal position. Legal observers are now awaiting the Supreme Court’s full judgment, which is expected to provide comprehensive reasoning behind the ruling and set an important precedent for future cases involving the removal of high constitutional officeholders in Ghana. Source: Apexnewsgh.com