Ghana Police Intensify Crackdown on Drug Trafficking in Upper East; 74 Arrested in Major Operations
The Ghana Police Service has escalated its campaign against narcotics trafficking and violent crime in the Upper East Region, culminating in the arrest of 74 individuals during two recent operations in Paga and Navrongo. Acting on intelligence, the Inspector-General of Police’s Special Operations Team launched a targeted crackdown on known criminal hotspots and suspected drug distribution networks. These efforts aim to disrupt trans-border crime and curb the flow of narcotics in the region. The first major sweep took place on May 20, 2026, along the buffer zone at the Ghana-Burkina Faso border in Paga. Officers apprehended 40 suspects, 28 men and 12 women, comprising a mix of nationalities: 23 Ghanaians, 8 Nigerians, 6 Burkinabés, 1 Malian, and 1 Togolese. During the operation, police seized numerous parcels and sacks containing suspected narcotic substances as well as five motorbikes believed to be integral to the drug distribution network. Just two days later, on May 22, the Special Operations Team moved into action again, this time raiding criminal enclaves in Navrongo Municipality. The focus was on areas infamously known for illicit activities, such as the Condemned Road Corridor, “After Six” Spot, and “Lighter Inn” Spot. This second operation netted 34 more suspects, 32 men and two women. Authorities also confiscated 11 motorbikes, quantities of suspected drugs, and various foreign cigarettes suspected of being smuggled into Ghana. All 74 suspects were promptly brought before High Court Two under the jurisdiction of His Lordship Justice Ernest Pascal Gemadzie. Sixteen of them were remanded into police custody, with their next court appearance scheduled for June 4, 2026. The remaining 22 suspects are currently being profiled and screened for further legal proceedings. According to the Police, all those arrested remain in custody and are assisting with ongoing investigations. Security agencies have vowed to continue their efforts to identify and apprehend additional individuals connected to criminal activities in the affected communities. These latest operations underscore the Ghana Police Service’s nationwide commitment to dismantling the narcotics trade, fighting violent crime, and tackling cross-border criminal networks, particularly in vulnerable border communities. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Avoid Watching Black Stars’ World Cup Live Matches–Ex-Mighty Rocks Manager Warns Heart Patients
Former Bolgatanga Mighty Rocks manager and development advocate Mr. Gabriel Agambila has issued a stark warning to Ghanaian football fans: temper your hopes for the upcoming World Cup in the United States, or face crushing disappointment that could endanger your health. With kickoff just days away, Agambila points to a chaotic and disjointed buildup, one he says is painfully familiar. Ghana still has no official roster. According to Mr. Agambila, across Europe, players are reporting to camp without any formal release or communication from a head coach who has never even seen them in person. “This is no time for blind hope,” Agambila told reporters. “Ghanaians should celebrate qualifying, but nothing more.” For die-hard supporters, his advice is grim: lower expectations now to avoid being overwhelmed by what’s coming. Those with weak hearts or high blood pressure, he suggested, should skip live matches entirely and wait for replays. “Almost four years, and we keep making the same mistakes while expecting different results,” Agambila lamented. Football, he explained, is an investment of time, a bond forged through proper preparation. “That preparation simply hasn’t happened.” His verdict was blunt: “We are coming to the USA as tourists. Nothing else.” On a more reassuring note, Agambila confirmed that members of the Alagumgube Association in the diaspora will, as always, welcome the supporters, the team, and the officials upon arrival. But he warned that the warmth of that reception cannot mask the chill awaiting Ghana on the pitch. Below are some critical concerns by Mr. Agambila 1. The Black Stars have arrived in Wales without the head coach yet. 2. With only a few days to the World Cup, the official squad list has still not been released. 3. Players based in Europe are already reporting to camp without an official release from the coach, who has yet to even see the players physically. 4. My advice to football-loving Ghanaians is to only rejoice in the fact that we qualified for the World Cup and to cease having any high hopes. This is especially important for die-hard soccer fans; we must psych ourselves up so we are not overwhelmed by the results that await us. 5. I would even advise those with blood pressure issues, if they are not strong-hearted, to only watch replays of the games. 6. For close to four years now, we have kept making the same old mistakes while expecting different results. 7. Football is an investment of time that requires bonding together and doing the right preparation, none of which we have done. 8. I will say we are coming to the USA merely as tourists and nothing else. 9. Alagumgube in the diaspora will, as usual, welcome the supporters, the team, and the officials to the USA when they arrive. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Premier League clubs hit financial jackpot as Arsenal lead 2025/26 earnings table
The money in the Premier League just keeps getting crazier, and the latest earnings table proves that England’s top flight is still football’s ultimate cash machine. Fresh figures released at the end of the 2025/26 season show that Arsenal topped the Premier League earnings chart with a massive £198.7 million, narrowly ahead of Manchester City on £192.5 million and Manchester United on £191.5 million. The numbers combine television rights, commercial distributions, merit payments, and facility fees — and once again show why even mid-table English clubs can spend like European giants. Full Premier League earnings list (2025/26) 1. Arsenal – £198.7m 2. Manchester City – £192.5m 3. Manchester United – £191.5m 4. Aston Villa – £182.6m 5. Liverpool – £181.8m 6. Bournemouth – £170.5m 7. Sunderland – £168.2m 8. Chelsea – £162.6m 9. Brighton & Hove Albion – £161.6m 10. Brentford – £161.5m 11. Fulham – £155.2m 12. Newcastle United – £154.5m 13. Everton – £147.7m 14. Leeds United – £144.5m 15. Crystal Palace – £137.5m 16. Nottingham Forest – £137.1m 17. Tottenham Hotspur – £135.8m 18. West Ham United – £128.6m 19. Burnley – £118.1m 20. Wolverhampton Wanderers – £117.7m What makes the figures even more unbelievable is this: the bottom clubs in England are still earning more than champions in some of Europe’s biggest leagues. Germany, Spain, and France can’t keep up In Germany, Bayern Munich, one of the biggest football brands on the planet, is projected to earn around €107 million from Bundesliga distributions. In Spain, FC Barcelona and Real Madrid remain the only clubs capable of competing financially with England’s elite, earning around €170m–€180m annually from league-related revenue. Meanwhile, in France, even champions Paris Saint-Germain reportedly earn far less from domestic league distribution, with Ligue 1 clubs struggling after major TV-rights complications. The Premier League’s massive international TV audience is the main reason for the gap. Every club receives huge guaranteed broadcast money before league position bonuses are even added. Why young fans should care These numbers explain almost everything happening in modern football: * Why Premier League clubs dominate transfer windows * Why English teams can outbid European rivals for players * Why even smaller EPL clubs can sign international stars * Why the Premier League feels more competitive every season For younger fans watching on TikTok, YouTube, and streaming platforms, the Premier League isn’t just a football league anymore; it’s global entertainment powered by billions. And with clubs now earning close to £200 million a season before Champions League money is added, Europe’s financial power shift looks far from over.
Secret Service says officers fatally shot a person who fired at them near White House
Secret Service officers shot and killed a person who the agency said approached a security checkpoint Saturday near the White House and fired at them. Shortly before 6 p.m. ET, an individual approached a checkpoint just outside the White House complex and began firing at officers, a Secret Service spokesperson said, citing a preliminary investigation. Secret Service officers returned fire and hit the suspect, who later died at an area hospital, the spokesperson said. “During the shooting, a bystander was also struck by gunfire. It remains unclear whether the bystander was struck by the suspect’s initial gunfire or during the subsequent exchange of gunfire,” the spokesperson added. Secret Service personnel were not injured, and President Donald Trump was in the residence and unaffected, the spokerson said. He’s been briefed on the incident by the Secret Service, a White House official said. The bystander is in critical condition, according to a law enforcement official. | Suspected gunman Nasire Best The suspect has been identified as 21-year-old Nasire Best, three sources told CNN. Best had previous encounters with the Secret Service, one law enforcement source said, including an incident in June 2025 in which he blocked an entry lane at the White House. After claiming he was “God,” he was detained by the Secret Service and committed to the Psychiatric Institute of Washington for mental evaluation, the source said. The following month, in July 2025, the Secret Service arrested Best again after he attempted to enter a White House complex driveway, the source said. A judge issued an order demanding he stay away from the White House grounds. While investigating the encounters last year, investigators discovered Best had made various statements on social media, including claiming he was “the real” Osama bin Laden, and at least one post indicating his desire to harm Trump, the source said. But police had never encountered the suspect behaving violently or wielding a weapon before, according to a law enforcement source. Gunshots trigger rapid security response CNN reporters heard what appeared to be dozens of gunshots near the White House shortly after 6 p.m. ET, triggering a roughly 40-minute lockdown for the press on the grounds and a rapid response from the Secret Service. The sounds of gunfire broke out nearly an hour after a press lid had been called at 5:06 p.m. — a signal that reporters were not expecting to see Trump again for the remainder of the day. By that point, many journalists and White House press staff had already departed the complex. Members of the press corps on the North Lawn were rushed into the White House briefing room, where they were told to shelter in place as Secret Service agents shouted “get down” and warned of “shots fired.” CNN counted roughly two dozen journalists sheltering inside the briefing room during the lockdown, including photographers, producers, photojournalists and correspondents. Secret Service agents carrying rifles could be seen moving through the North Lawn area following the incident and blocking the White House press briefing room. The lockdown was lifted just after 6:45 p.m. ET. The incident unfolded after several top administration officials, including White House chief of staff Susie Wiles, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Vice President JD Vance, were captured by CNN cameras leaving the White House grounds. CNN has reached out to the White House, DC Metropolitan Police, and the DC Fire and EMS Department for comment. FBI Director Kash Patel said on Xthat the agency was on the scene and supporting Secret Service. Selina Wang, ABC News’ chief White House correspondent, posted a video on X showing the moment the apparent shots rang out and she ducked for cover. “I was in the middle of taping on my iPhone for a social video from the White House North Lawn when we heard the shots. It sounded like dozens of gunshots. We were told to sprint to the press briefing room where we are holding now,” she posted. The incident comes less than a month after the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, where reporters and Trump administration officials ducked for cover as shots rang out. The suspect in that shooting, Cole Tomas Allen, sprinted through a security checkpoint with a shotgun in hand, exchanging fire with Secret Service agents who chased behind him, according to security footage. He has pleaded not guilty to attempting to assassinate Trump and to other charges. Source: cnn.com
Ghana’s Cedi Faces Tough Times—A Story of Decline in 2026
Traders in Ghana count their cedis with worried expressions. The year is 2026, and Ghana’s currency has become the talk of West Africa, not for its strength, but for its steady fall against the US dollar. Early May saw the cedi drop to 11.36 against the dollar, marking a year-to-date decline of 10.28% according to Reuters, which relied on London Stock Exchange Group data for its analysis. The news rippled through the financial world, with predictions of further depreciation due to high demand for foreign exchange, especially from Ghana’s energy sector. “Ghana’s cedi is being dragged down by persistent corporate foreign-currency demand, particularly from the energy sector,” stated the Reuters report. The trend continued, and by the end of last week, the cedi closed at 11.61 to the dollar. Out of the nine currencies circulating in West Africa, including the CFA franc used by eight countries, the cedi stood out for all the wrong reasons. It was the worst-performing currency in the region in 2026, and its weak showing placed it alongside the Libyan dinar among Africa’s most fragile currencies. This downward spiral came even as inflation eased, a positive sign for Ghana’s economy. But for ordinary citizens and businesses, the weakening cedi brought challenges. Prices of goods and services climbed, as importers and traders sought dollars at rates higher than those officially quoted. Reuters attributed the cedi’s woes to relentless demand for foreign currency from importers and businesses. “The cedi is on a depreciating path due to persistent FX demand, with traders expecting the trend to continue,” the report concluded. As the cedi’s story unfolded, Ghanaians braced themselves for the uncertain months ahead, hoping for stability in a world where the value of their money seemed to slip further each day. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
A Vision for Africa: Dr Asiama’s Journey Toward Financial Integration
At the ACI Financial Markets World Congress, Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama, Governor of the Bank of Ghana, took the stage, his eyes set on a horizon of possibility for Africa’s economic future. With leaders, innovators, and investors gathered around, he painted a vivid picture of a continent on the cusp of transformation while also outlining the hurdles that still stood in the way. Dr Asiama began by recounting the strides Africa has made in regional trade. Yet, he lamented, the systems that move money across borders remain fragmented and inefficient. “It is cheaper,” he remarked with a touch of irony, “to send money across oceans than to send it to a neighbouring African country.” The cost and complexity of cross-border payments, he argued, threaten to stifle trade and limit opportunities for millions. The Governor’s vision was clear: Africa needed an integrated payment and settlement system—a digital backbone that would connect the continent, support trade, deepen financial inclusion, and fuel economic growth. Achieving this, he stressed, was essential to realizing the promise of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Dr Asiama shared how the Bank of Ghana, in partnership with AfCFTA and other stakeholders, is exploring digital innovations such as stablecoins to tackle cross-border payment challenges. These efforts, he explained, are being nurtured in regulatory sandboxes, safe spaces where new technologies can be tested and refined before being scaled up. But the journey was not Ghana’s alone. Across the continent, central banks are joining forces to harmonise regulations, enhance payment systems, and share knowledge on emerging technologies. Dr Asiama highlighted the 3i Africa Summit, a collaborative platform bringing together central bank governors, innovators, and investors to drive financial sector development. Still, the Governor cautioned, innovation must be carefully balanced with financial stability and consumer protection. “Do not regulate the technology, but regulate the risk,” he advised, urging regulators to work alongside innovators rather than standing in their way. As the fireside chat drew to a close, Dr Asiama’s optimism was infectious. With greater collaboration among regulators, innovators, and investors, he believed Africa could build a resilient and inclusive financial system, one capable of supporting sustainable growth and prosperity for all. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Over 6,000 Security Service Applicants Disqualified for Drug Use and Mental Health Issues, Says Interior Minister
More than 6,000 hopefuls seeking to join Ghana’s security services have been disqualified at the medical screening stage of the ongoing recruitment exercise after testing positive for drugs or being identified with mental health conditions, the Ministry of the Interior has revealed. Interior Minister Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak disclosed during a televised interview on Pan African TV on Saturday, May 23. According to the Minister, over 100,000 applicants underwent rigorous medical examinations as part of the recruitment process. He explained that, in response to growing concerns about the well-being of personnel within the security services, the screening process went beyond routine physical and laboratory tests to include comprehensive drug testing and mental health assessments. “We have over 100,000 people who have gone through the medicals. Because of the large numbers and because of what we have observed within the services, we introduced additional checks, including mental health assessments and drug tests. Interestingly, over 4,000 people failed the drug test, and we have over 2,000 who also failed due to mental health conditions,” he said. Minister Muntaka Mubarak emphasized that these results underscore the need to strengthen screening procedures to ensure that only qualified and fit candidates are recruited into the nation’s security services. He noted that the measures are part of ongoing efforts to improve the well-being and professionalism of personnel entrusted with national security. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Hajia Charity Rahinatu Asoemah Urges TEIN Students: “Take Your Studies Seriously If You Want a Future in Politics”
Although Hajia Charity Rahinatu Asoemah could not be physically present at the TEIN ceremony held at the Nursing Training College in Bolgatanga, her words carried immense weight, leaving a powerful impact on the students and igniting fresh hope in their political aspirations. The former Upper East Regional Women’s Organizer of the NDC and now Deputy Director General of Warehouse at NADMO shared a heartfelt and direct message with the eager audience. She reminded the students that while aspiring to be a politician is a noble ambition, it must be built on a solid educational foundation. “Aspiring to be a politician is a noble ambition, but without a solid educational foundation, that dream can quickly turn into frustration,” she cautioned. Drawing from her own life, Hajia Charity spoke candidly about the challenges faced by those who enter politics without proper qualifications. She likened the experience to being a football substitute who never gets the chance to play. “I know this from experience. I’ve worked hard for the party, given everything I had, even sacrificing my own comfort for others. But because I didn’t have the qualifications, I was left behind when it was time for appointments.” She urged the students to learn from the past and avoid repeating the mistakes of her generation. “If we had known earlier, we would have gone back to school and improved ourselves. Education gives you the leverage you need in today’s political landscape. Without it, you might work tirelessly for the party, but when victory comes, you’ll be forgotten while others reap the rewards.” Hajia Charity also warned against the negative trends in modern politics, insults, intimidation, and lies. “I don’t advise any youth to engage in such politics. It doesn’t end well. Lies may spread quickly, but the truth always catches up, even if it’s too late to fix the damage. Focus on your studies, build your career, and let your achievements speak for you,” she advised. Recalling her own struggles, she shared how false rumors had been spread about her loyalty, making her a victim of political machinations. “People lied that the president said not to vote for me, but after the elections, the same president called me back. It was all politics. That’s why I advise you: don’t let lies and pettiness distract you. Stay focused on your goals.” She further encouraged the students to be observant and discerning about whom they trust in politics. “There are people who will ignore the hard work of loyal members and instead reward only their family and friends. This is the reality, but you can rise above it by arming yourself with education.” Hajia Charity concluded with a passionate call to action: “If you want to succeed in politics, build your career first. Get your degree, your masters, your PhD, whatever you can. Then step into politics with confidence, knowing you can stand your ground and claim your rightful place. Don’t let anyone use you, and don’t let your lack of qualifications be an excuse for others to sideline you.” Though she was absent in person, Hajia Charity’s message left a lasting impression. Many students left the ceremony inspired, determined to prioritize their studies alongside their political ambitions. Her story stands as a powerful reminder that with education and integrity, the youth can shape not only their own destinies, but also the future of their communities. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Upper East NDC Youth Organizer Urges Appointees to Prioritize Service Over Self-Interest
On Saturday at the Bolgatanga Nursing Training College, the Upper East Regional Youth Organizer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Abraham Lambon, addressed an enthusiastic gathering of TEIN students. The air buzzed with anticipation as students from eleven institutions and youth organizers across the region came together for a special mentoring event. Abraham Lambon began by highlighting the purpose of the gathering: “We are here to learn from those who have walked this path before us. The best way to grow is to listen to our experienced party members, understand their journey, and carry those lessons into our own communities.” The goal, he explained, was not just personal growth but the betterment of the region and Ghana as a whole. “The party’s current agenda is only starting,” he reminded them, “and it’s up to the youth to keep its momentum alive.” To drive home his message, Lambon shared a story: Once, a wealthy landlord decided to test the loyalty of his servant, who had served faithfully for over ten years. The landlord confided in his wife, saying, “If this man passes my test, I’ll set him up in business so he can uplift others in our community.” In this tale, Lambon drew a parallel to President John Dramani Mahama, who, recognizing the loyalty and hard work of party members, had appointed credible ministers as a test of trust and service. Lambon warned, however, that not all had lived up to this trust. He cited the example of Mr. Hanan from the region of the previous government, who he alleged had stolen government funds, a model he urged other appointees not to emulate. “My plea to the appointees of John Mahama is this: remember, you have been entrusted with your roles to help the ordinary people, especially those who sacrificed for the party’s victory. Do not repeat past mistakes. Let appointments pass through party structures so that the youth and loyal members benefit.” Recalling the sacrifices made during the party’s years in opposition, including the tragic loss of his colleague from Bono East, Lambon emphasized that now was the time to reward loyalty and hard work. “If we see those sacrifices ignored, we will not hesitate to mobilize and demand justice for our youth.” He also celebrated recent successes, announcing that through the efforts of the National Youth Organizer and the National Care Coordinator, every institution in the region had secured local scholarships for ten needy students each , a tangible fruit of the party’s governance. Lambon closed by urging students to network, learn, and identify mentors among the dignitaries present: “In politics, your biggest asset is your network. Seize this opportunity to connect and grow.” The event drew a remarkable array of party dignitaries and political figures from both within and beyond the region, marking it as a memorable and inspiring day for the youth of the Upper East. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Tebon Zumah Inspires TEIN Students to Pursue Excellence at Bolgatanga Nursing Training College Event
The auditorium of Bolgatanga Nursing Training College was abuzz with excitement on Saturday, as students from eleven institutions and youth organizers across the Upper East Region gathered for a special mentorship event. The guest of honor was Tebon Zumah, the Director of Port, Tema. Addressing the enthusiastic TEIN students, Mr. Zumah urged them to take their studies seriously, reminding them that dedication and ambition can lead to remarkable success. Drawing from his own journey, he shared, “I am the director of a port, a seaport, but it is interesting to know that since the establishment of the Ghana Coast and Harbour Authority, many of our senior brothers have held this position. Rising to this level requires hard work, delivering on your job, and belonging to the right political party.” Mr. Zumah recounted how his career began unexpectedly when he was posted by the National Service Secretariat to the port, a place he knew little about at the time. “When I first arrived, I didn’t even know anything about Seaport. But I embraced the opportunity, worked hard, and after 22 years, I was appointed director by the president.” He emphasized that leadership is about service, not titles. “Our duty is to use our positions to help as many people as we can, especially those from our own communities.” Reflecting on the history of political transformation in Ghana, Mr. Zumah pointed out that many impactful leaders had their roots in student activism and grassroots mobilization. He encouraged the students to focus on their studies while also taking politics seriously. “Your concentration should be on your studies, but you must also be deliberate in certain decisions. Ambition and discipline can open doors to new fields, whether in accounting, law, or even marine engineering.” Mr. Zumah explained that his exposure to different roles at the port helped him discover the variety of careers available, from ship pilots to marine engineers. He urged students to learn from the experiences shared at the event, so they could envision themselves in future leadership roles, perhaps even as director or president of a port. He proudly highlighted the port’s 24-hour operation system, which has boosted employment and created significant job opportunities. “By running a three-shift system, we create jobs for more people. In this system, one job can mean employment for three to five individuals.” Mr. Zumah concluded with words of encouragement: “If you commit to hard work at school and on the job, you will go far. But remember, patience is key.” The event was a massive success, drawing notable politicians and dignitaries from both the region and the national stage, and left the students inspired to pursue excellence in their studies and future careers. Source: Apexnewsgh.com