Ghanaian Man Pleads Guilty in $100 Million U.S. Online Fraud Scheme
In a dramatic courtroom moment in New York, 40-year-old Ghanaian national Derrick Van Yeboah admitted to his role in a sweeping online fraud operation that stole over $100 million from victims in the United States. The guilty plea, entered before Judge Arun Subramanian at the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, marks a significant development in the fight against international cybercrime. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) announced Van Yeboah’s plea on Friday, March 6, revealing the extent of his involvement in a sophisticated network that orchestrated romance scams and business email compromise attacks. The announcement was made by Jay Clayton, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, who underscored the devastating impact on victims, many of whom were elderly men and women searching for companionship online. “Derrick Van Yeboah pled guilty today to a massive criminal scheme targeting elderly men and women in online romance scams,” Clayton stated. “Many New Yorkers search for companionship online, and no one deserves to have their vulnerability met with fraud and theft. Van Yeboah cruelly exploited those vulnerabilities for over $10 million in illicit profit.” According to court documents, Van Yeboah was part of a Ghana-based criminal organisation that preyed on individuals and companies across the United States. Victims were lured into fake romantic relationships online, with conspirators using fictitious identities to gain trust before persuading targets to send money or help launder illicit funds. The group also deceived businesses through business email compromise, tricking them into transferring funds to accounts controlled by the network. Authorities say the criminal enterprise stole and laundered more than $100 million, with much of the proceeds ending up in West Africa. Van Yeboah himself was responsible for over $10 million in losses, personally carrying out several romance scams by impersonating fake partners during online communications. Under U.S. law, conspiracy to commit wire fraud carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Van Yeboah has agreed to pay restitution and forfeiture totaling $10,149,429.17. His sentencing is scheduled for June 3, 2026. Jay Clayton praised the efforts of the FBI and acknowledged the support of authorities in Ghana and the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs in bringing the case to justice. As the legal process moves forward, the case stands as a stark warning against the dangers of online scams and the international reach of cybercriminal networks. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Israeli Ambassador Expresses Sympathy After Missile Attack Injures Ghanaian Peacekeepers in Lebanon
It was a tense evening in southern Lebanon on Friday, March 6, when two missiles struck the Ghanaian Battalion Headquarters, part of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). The attack occurred between 17:45 and 17:52 local time, shattering the calm at the base and leaving devastation in its wake. Among those serving bravely far from home were Ghanaian peacekeepers, whose dedication to international security was met with sudden violence. The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) later confirmed that two soldiers had been critically injured in the attack, while another suffered trauma. The Officers’ Mess facility, a central hub for the battalion, was completely destroyed by fire during the assault. As news of the incident reached Accra, arrangements were swiftly made to provide medical care for the wounded personnel. They are currently being treated at a Level One Medical Bunker, with plans underway to transfer them to the UNIFIL headquarters referral hospital for more advanced care. The attack drew swift condemnation and sympathy from the Ambassador of Israel to Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, Roey Gilad. Describing the event as tragic, Ambassador Gilad expressed deep concern for the injured peacekeepers. “This is indeed a tragic event. We send wishes of speedy recovery to the three soldiers,” he stated. Ambassador Gilad also noted that efforts to determine the source of the missile fire were ongoing, with the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) launching an investigation into the incident. Meanwhile, the Ghana Armed Forces moved quickly to assure the public that all other troops at the base remained safe, having taken shelter in underground bunkers due to the fragile security environment in the area. The missile strike comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, with growing confrontations involving Israel, Iran, and allied forces across the region. In response to the attack, the Government of Ghana, through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, has officially lodged a protest with the United Nations headquarters in New York City, seeking accountability and greater protection for its peacekeepers. As investigations continue, the thoughts of many remain with the injured soldiers and their families, hoping for their swift recovery and a return to peace in the region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
U.S. Embassy in Ghana Releases 2,000+ New Visa Appointment Slots for B1/B2 Travelers
In a welcome development for Ghanaian travelers, the U.S. Embassy in Accra has announced the release of more than 2,000 additional visa appointment slots for B1/B2 applicants over the next two weeks. The newly available slots are designed for individuals traveling to the United States for business, family visits, tourism, or to attend the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup. The embassy announced on its official X account on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, building on a recent rollout of over 1,000 non-immigrant visa slots that enabled many travelers to book earlier interview dates. With demand for U.S. visas soaring ahead of major events, the embassy is encouraging applicants who already have appointments scheduled for later in the year to reschedule and take advantage of the increased availability. Interested travelers are advised to check the embassy’s official visa page for detailed instructions and to secure their slots promptly, as competition is expected to be stiff. The move reflects rising interest in travel that combines business, leisure, and global sporting opportunities, with the embassy working to accommodate the surge in applications from Ghana and the wider region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ibrahim Mahama Converts Private Jet into Free Emergency Air Ambulance for Ghanaians
Ghanaian businessman Ibrahim Mahama has taken a bold step in philanthropy, announcing that his former private jet will now operate as a free emergency air ambulance for Ghanaians facing urgent medical crises. “Any Ghanaian with a medical emergency who needs to be flown out for treatment can use the jet free of charge. I have dedicated it to the nation to support both local and international medical emergencies involving Ghanaians,” Mahama shared, highlighting his commitment to supporting critical healthcare needs. The newly repurposed jet is set to provide rapid transport for patients requiring specialized treatment, whether within Ghana or abroad. Health officials and community observers have applauded the initiative, pointing out that it could be a game-changer for patients in life-threatening situations, particularly those living in remote or underserved regions where timely access to advanced care can be a challenge. This act of generosity adds to Ibrahim Mahama’s growing legacy of championing projects aimed at improving the welfare and health outcomes of Ghanaians. As the air ambulance prepares for its first missions, many see it as a beacon of hope for families facing medical emergencies across the country. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Former Vice President Bawumia and Wife Relocated Amid Middle East Tensions
As unrest grows in parts of the Middle East, former Vice President of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, his wife Samira Bawumia, and their entourage have been quietly relocated from Qatar to another country in a government-led effort to ensure their safety. The move was carried out following direct instructions from Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. Acting on behalf of the government, Minister Ablakwa directed Ghanaian embassies throughout the region to immediately coordinate secure travel arrangements for the former Vice President and his team. Diplomatic sources revealed that Ghanaian embassies worked closely with local authorities to facilitate the swift and discreet transfer, emphasizing that the operation was executed smoothly and without incident. Specific details regarding the relocation remain confidential for security reasons. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Government of Ghana are maintaining a high level of vigilance as tensions persist in the region. Authorities are monitoring developments closely and have put embassies on alert to offer consular support and emergency assistance to Ghanaians living in or passing through affected areas. The safe relocation of the Bawumia family underscores the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens and officials abroad during times of heightened risk. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ashanti Regional Fire Command Reports Slight Drop in Fire Outbreaks as New Safety Initiative Launched
Between January and February this year, the Ashanti Regional Fire Command recorded 208 fire outbreaks, a slight reduction from the 237 incidents reported during the same period in 2025. The update was shared by ACFO1 Peter Tetteh, Regional Commander of the Ghana National Fire Service, at the launch of an inter-market fire safety quiz in Kumasi on Tuesday, March 3. Commander Tetteh explained to journalists that the first quarter of the year typically marks the peak season for fire incidents, especially in the region’s bustling markets. While the dip in reported cases offers a small measure of relief, he cautioned that the risk of market fires remains high and called for continued vigilance. The newly launched inter-market quiz aims to arm traders with practical knowledge on fire prevention and emergency response. “Market fires cause a lot of devastation. The aim is to get traders involved in fire prevention so that they can own the market, understand what causes fires, and prevent them,” Tetteh noted, expressing satisfaction with the enthusiastic response from participants. He also issued a stern warning to traders handling combustible and explosive materials, urging them to relocate these goods outside market premises to safeguard the public from potential disasters. Supporting the initiative, Chairman Ernest Afayam, Managing Director of Kejetia Market, stressed the importance of fire safety education given the market’s structure and history of fire outbreaks. He recalled a recent incident swiftly contained by fire officers, as well as the 2023 blaze ignited by hazardous chemicals, which led to displacement and losses for many traders. Chairman Afayam praised the fire safety quiz as a proactive measure, stating, “It is a positive programme. The arrangement is a form of creating awareness and prevention as far as fire safety is concerned. I believe it is something worth embarking on.” With fire risks still looming, the region’s fire authorities and market leaders are working hand-in-hand to reduce hazards and safeguard livelihoods through education and collective action. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
MTN Group’s Ebenezer Asante Challenges African Graduates To Become Digital Innovators And Change-Makers For The Continent’s Growth
Mr. Ebenezer Asante, Senior Vice President of MTN Group, called for stronger alliances between academia, government, and industry to foster a generation of African innovators prepared to shape the continent’s technological future. He made this address at the 2025 graduation ceremony of Accra Technical University (ATU), themed “Emerging Technologies: How Prepared is the ATU Graduate?” During his speech, Mr. Asante urged young African graduates to take the initiative in shaping the continent’s technological destiny by becoming creators and innovators rather than mere consumers of digital technology. He stated, “The curious, tech-savvy graduate of the 21st century will not only use technology but will also shape it with foresight and a sense of shared human purpose.” Referring to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) 2023 Report, Mr. Asante noted that Africa’s share of global technology patent filings has decreased from 4.4% a decade ago to 3.2% in 2023, despite the continent accounting for over 18% of the world’s population. This statistic highlights the urgent need for improved collaboration among universities, private sector players, investors, and policymakers to boost research, invention, and the industrial application of technology on the continent. “If we are serious about using technology to address Africa’s complex developmental challenges, we must become part of the technology supply chain and the global ecosystem of invention,” he asserted. Drawing inspiration from futurists Alvin Toffler and Professor Akosua Ampofo, Mr. Asante highlighted that Africa’s competitiveness in the digital age will rely on its youth’s ability to keep learning, unlearning, and relearning. He explained that the most successful graduates will be those who combine technical skills with creativity, empathy, and teamwork, traits that foster innovation in the 21st century. He encouraged the ATU graduates to embrace a growth mindset, emphasizing that their success will rely more on their psychological and behavioural flexibility than on their academic qualifications. “Do not fear the unknown. Be clear about what you possess that can make a difference and keep applying yourself until you achieve a breakthrough,” he advised. “Stubborn perseverance is what the world is waiting for from you.” Mr. Asante also emphasized how technology can tackle Africa’s real-world challenges across various sectors, including sanitation, healthcare, agriculture, education, and energy. He highlighted the inspiring work of The Buz Stop Boys, a youth-led initiative addressing urban sanitation in Ghana, as an example of how civic-minded innovation can make a difference. He challenged graduates to use their technical training to develop IoT-enabled waste management systems, smart data-driven city solutions, and even robotics or drone technologies to optimize waste collection and improve urban hygiene. Reflecting on the changing nature of employment, Asante noted that technology has enabled young people to work globally without relocating. He encouraged graduates to seize opportunities in freelancing, digital entrepreneurship, and hybrid work, leveraging platforms powered by AI, cloud computing, and digital payment systems such as Mobile Money (MoMo). In closing, Mr. Asante called on the graduates to actively contribute to advancing Ghana’s national digitalization agenda and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, both of which envision an integrated and prosperous Africa driven by innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Slips in Global Mining Investment Rankings Amid Rising African Competition
Ghana’s standing as a premier mining investment destination has taken a hit, according to the latest findings from the Fraser Institute’s 2025 Annual Survey of Mining Companies. Once a top contender in Africa’s resource sector, Ghana has now slipped seven places in the global Investment Attractiveness Index (IAI), falling to 53rd out of 68 jurisdictions, down from 46th last year. The country’s score declined to 55.21 from 56.98, reflecting mounting competitive pressure across the continent. Within Africa, Ghana now trails behind countries such as Botswana and Morocco, settling into the middle tier of the continent’s mining investment landscape. While the country still boasts significant mineral wealth, the new ranking signals a need to address the factors holding back investor confidence. The IAI blends mineral potential with policy perception, with geology accounting for 60 percent and policy factors for 40 percent of the overall score. The report points to regulatory uncertainty, tax concerns, infrastructure deficiencies, and land access issues as potential reasons for Ghana’s slide in the rankings. These challenges appear to be dampening investor enthusiasm, despite Ghana’s strong geological profile. Further reinforcing this trend, Ghana ranked 50th globally on the Policy Perception Index, earning a score of 53.65, indicative of moderate but not leading policy competitiveness. The survey, conducted between August and November 2025, gathered insights from 256 mining executives representing companies with a collective exploration budget exceeding US$4.2 billion. As Ghana navigates increased competition from its African peers, the latest rankings serve as a call to action for policymakers to boost the country’s appeal to global investors and reclaim its status as a mining powerhouse. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Chief of Staff’s Committee Completes Review of Post-Election Public Service Appointments
A committee set up by the Chief of Staff to scrutinize recruitments, appointments, and promotions made into Ghana’s Public Service following the December 7 elections has concluded its work, shedding light on the fate of thousands affected by a sweeping review directive. According to the committee’s findings, a total of 2,080 individuals had their recent appointments or promotions under examination. After a thorough review, the committee determined that 1,201 of these appointments were valid, confirming that they had followed the proper due process and could stand. However, the process was not without casualties; 541 appointments were revoked after the committee found they failed to meet the necessary procedural standards. In a strong affirmation of inclusivity, the committee also upheld the appointments of 338 Persons With Disabilities, recognizing that these appointments had adhered to all requirements and signaling the government’s ongoing commitment to diversity within the Public Service. The review process, initiated in the wake of the elections, was designed to promote transparency, fairness, and strict compliance with established protocols in public sector hiring and advancement. With the committee’s report now released, the government looks to move forward, guided by the principles of accountability and merit. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Nana Agradaa Released from Prison, Reunites with Family After Eight Months
The gates of Nsawam Prison swung open this week to release Patricia Asiedua Asiamah, better known to many as Nana Agradaa, the former fetish priestess who turned her life to evangelism. After spending eight months in custody, Nana Agradaa has finally returned home, marking a new chapter in a story that has captured national attention. Her husband, Asiamah, took to Facebook on Tuesday, March 3, to share the news of her return: “Thank God my wife is finally home,” he wrote, sparking a wave of reactions from supporters and critics alike. The homecoming was marked by heartfelt reunions as Nana Agradaa rejoined her family after a period of separation. Later in the day, she is expected to make her first public appearance by joining her church community for fellowship, a significant moment for her congregation and followers, many of whom have stood by her throughout her legal troubles. Nana Agradaa was initially handed a 15-year sentence on July 3, 2025, after being convicted on charges of defrauding by false pretence and charlatanic advertisement. Her legal team, however, appealed the ruling, arguing that the punishment was excessive. The Amasaman High Court ultimately reviewed her case, reducing her sentence to 12 months and describing the original term as harsh. Her release comes in line with Ghana’s remission rules, which allowed her to regain freedom after serving two-thirds of her revised sentence. As Nana Agradaa steps back into public life, all eyes will be on how she navigates her return and reengages with her faith community. Source: Apexnewsgh.com