Tag: military

  • Men who robbed miners in military uniforms remanded

    Men who robbed miners in military uniforms remanded

    Two men accused of staging a robbery while dressed in military gear have been remanded into custody by the Tarkwa Circuit Court.

    Benjamin Awal, 29, an illegal miner, and Kwame Mumuni, 31, a farmer, are facing charges of robbery, conspiracy to commit a crime, and possessing military uniforms without lawful authority. The court, presided over by Mrs Hathia Ama Manu, deferred their pleas.

    The incident took place on the evening of March 27, 2025. According to the prosecution, led by ASP Samuel Ahiaboc, the accused had disguised themselves partly in military attire and set out to extort money from miners operating around Wangarakrom and its surrounding areas in the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality.

    Armed with cutlasses and clubs, the two, along with an accomplice still at large, blocked a road leading to illegal mining sites using Awal’s unregistered motorbike. They stopped a group of miners—Abudu Boamah, Naa Evans, and Bernard Tawiah—and claimed to be military personnel sent to carry out an anti-mining operation.

    When the miners questioned their demands, the accused allegedly resorted to threats, seized their mobile phones, and demanded payments. The victims, fearing for their safety, handed over cash totalling GH¢1,250. In one case, money was transferred via mobile money to Awal before their phones were returned.

    The accused reportedly changed out of their uniforms after the operation and returned to Mumuni’s residence. However, the victims alerted locals at Mile 7, who managed to intercept the two and retrieve the uniforms they had used.

    Awal and Mumuni were later handed over to the police, and further investigation led to the recovery of GH¢1,145. They are expected to appear in court again on April 23, 2025.

  • Govt to transform Asutsuare Training Camp into a first-class military training facility

    Govt to transform Asutsuare Training Camp into a first-class military training facility

    The government has announced plans to upgrade the Asutsuare Training Camp into a state-of-the-art military training facility to enhance the country’s security preparedness.

    President John Dramani Mahama made this known during a meeting with newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Major General William Agyapong, and other top security officials on Friday, March 28, 2025.

    Addressing the security chiefs, President Mahama reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening Ghana’s military infrastructure. He assured them that budgetary allocations for the armed forces would be increased to support the acquisition of modern equipment and facilities.

    “Your budgetary allocation will increase to enable you to secure new and additional platforms and assets to enhance your operations. I also ask you to explore innovative financing means to improve infrastructure and training, especially with respect to accommodation for your troops,” he stated.

    The President further assured the security leadership of his continued support in enhancing the military’s capabilities.

    “I will be by your side every step of the way. Already, we are planning to upgrade the Asutsuare Training Camp into a first-class training facility,” he added.

    The move aligns with the government’s broader efforts to modernize Ghana’s military and equip personnel with the necessary resources for effective operations.

  • Asutsuare Training Camp to become a premier military facility – Mahama

    Asutsuare Training Camp to become a premier military facility – Mahama

    President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to upgrade the Asutsuare Training Camp into a top-tier military training facility to strengthen Ghana’s security readiness.

    At a brief ceremony on Friday, March 28, 2025, where the newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Major General William Agyapong, and other security chiefs paid him a courtesy visit, President Mahama reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the country’s military infrastructure.

    He assured the security chiefs that budgetary allocations for the military would be increased to facilitate the procurement of advanced platforms and assets to enhance operational efficiency.

    He also encouraged them to explore innovative financing strategies to improve infrastructure, particularly focusing on troop accommodation.

    “Your budgetary allocation will increase to enable you to secure new and additional platforms and assets to enhance your operations. I also ask you to explore innovative financing means to improve infrastructure and training, especially with respect to accommodation for your troops.

    “I will be by your side every step of the way. Already, we are planning to upgrade the Asutsuare Training Camp into a first-class training facility,” President Mahama stated.

  • Govt deploys drones, military to combat Walewale highway attacks 

    Govt deploys drones, military to combat Walewale highway attacks 

    Government has intensified security efforts along the Walewale-Bolgatanga Highway by deploying military personnel and drones to curb rising attacks on passenger buses.

    Minister for the Interior, Mr. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, made this known in Parliament on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, while responding to concerns raised by the Member of Parliament for Walewale regarding escalating robberies and vehicle burnings in the North East Region.

    According to Mr. Muntaka Mubarak, although Walewale has seen a steady decline in armed robbery cases—from 30 incidents in 2022 to 18 in 2024—the attacks targeting passenger buses remain a pressing concern.

    He linked the recent surge in highway violence to the ongoing Bawku chieftaincy conflict, explaining that the unrest was spilling over into surrounding areas and contributing to insecurity along the route.

    To address the situation, the government imposed a curfew on Walewale and its environs on February 15, 2025, while also reinforcing security operations in the area.

    In addition to the military deployment, extra police officers have been dispatched from Tamale to support the Walewale District Command. The government has also increased logistical support, including the provision of more patrol vehicles.

    Furthermore, three police bases have been established in Walewale, Janga, and Gombiliga, each manned by 30 officers to enhance security patrols. To protect traders, police escorts have been introduced for market women traveling to and from Walewale’s markets.

    Despite these interventions, Mr. Muntaka Mubarak acknowledged that no arrests had been made in connection with this year’s robbery incidents. He noted that tracking suspects had been challenging due to the widespread use of motorbikes in the area but remained optimistic about the impact of the new surveillance measures.

    “I will continue engaging the police, and with drone surveillance now in place, I believe we will see improvements. But as of now, I have no information on arrests,” he said.

    Authorities remain hopeful that these enhanced security measures will restore safety along the highway and deter further attacks.

  • Mahama hailed over decision to add military training to NSS

    Mahama hailed over decision to add military training to NSS

    The Western Nzema Youth League (WNYL), a youth organization, has commended President John Mahama for his initiative to incorporate a brief military training course into the National Service Scheme (NSS).

    During his maiden State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Mahama disclosed that the government planned to implement a short military training program for national service personnel to promote discipline and physical fitness among young people.

    Responding to this announcement in an interview with the Ghana News Agency in Takoradi, Dr. Patrick Ekye Kwesie, leader of the WNYL, stated that military training for national service personnel would equip the youth with essential skills, enabling them to maximize their potential and actively participate in national development.

    He remarked: “By emphasising the importance of discipline, resilience, and teamwork, he has laid the groundwork for a generation that is not only prepared to face the challenges of the future but also equipped to contribute meaningfully to society.”

    Dr. Kwesie emphasized that introducing military training for national service personnel was a crucial move toward instilling a sense of duty and national identity in young people.

    “For me, this initiative will instil values such as patriotism, respect for authority, and a commitment to service.

    “… And for many young people in the Western Nzema area where unemployment rates are high and opportunities are scarce, this training could serve as a transformative experience,” he observed.

    Dr. Kwesie described the government’s decision as a positive development, adding that “having military training on one’s resume could set them apart, showcasing their ability to work under pressure, lead teams, and adapt to challenging situations.”

    On Thursday, February 27, President John Dramani Mahama presented the State of the Nation Address (SONA), marking his first since assuming office on January 7, 2025.

    The presentation of the SONA message aligns with Article 67 of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution.

  • Youth Minister directed to present new L.I to introduce military training to National Service, others

    Youth Minister directed to present new L.I to introduce military training to National Service, others

    The government is set to introduce short military training as part of the National Service scheme to promote fitness and discipline among young people.

    This is part of efforts to strengthen the National Service structure following the passage of the National Service Authority Act 2024 (Act 1119).

    Delivering the 2025 State of the Nation Address in Parliament today, President John Dramani Mahama revealed that he has instructed the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, to develop a Legislative Instrument (L.I.) to provide a legal framework for the new reforms.

    “To achieve a legally robust regime to govern National Service, I have also tasked the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment to coordinate and present to Parliament a Legislative Instrument (L.I.) to support the implementation of the newly passed National Service Authority Act 2024 (Act 1119),” President Mahama stated.

    The proposed reforms will also introduce short military training as part of the National Service programme, which the President believes will instill discipline and physical fitness in Ghanaian youth.

    “We will introduce short military training as part of our national service scheme. This will instill a sense of fitness and discipline into our youth,” he added.

    National Service programmes, including military or paramilitary training, are implemented in several countries worldwide. According to the World Population Review, around 80 countries, including Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and China, currently have some form of National Service or conscription.

    Some nations, like Russia, enforce mandatory military service, while others operate under a conscription model, requiring individuals to serve for a fixed period without necessarily being deployed for active duty.

    In contrast, some countries maintain a de jure system, where military service is legally mandated but rarely enforced. The United States, for instance, retains a draft system in law, though it has not been actively applied in decades.

    The introduction of military training into Ghana’s National Service scheme aligns with global trends and is expected to equip young people with valuable skills while fostering a sense of national discipline.

  • I never had a military convoy, more than one bodyguard while in office – Godfred Dame clarifies

    I never had a military convoy, more than one bodyguard while in office – Godfred Dame clarifies

    Former Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has refuted claims that he had an elaborate security detail during his tenure in public office, stating categorically that he “never had a military convoy” and was never accompanied by “more than one bodyguard.”

    Dame’s response was contained in a letter dated February 25, addressed to South Dayi Member of Parliament Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, following remarks made by the legislator on TV3’s The Key Points program on February 22.

    “For the record, at no point in time in my eight-year public service, between 2017 and 2025, did I have more than one bodyguard. At no point in time did I have more than one bodyguard sitting in a vehicle I used. At no point in time did I have a Land Cruiser or any other brand of vehicle following me with bodyguards. I never had a military convoy,” Dame clarified.

    Dafeamekpor had alleged that the former Attorney-General, even as a Deputy Minister, moved around with a significant military escort, a claim Dame dismissed as false and misleading.

    “The allegations by you are clearly a product of your fertile imagination and highlight your skill at fabricating facts, a tendency most unworthy of a leader of the Majority in Parliament,” he stated.

    He further emphasized that his security arrangements remained consistent throughout his tenure. “As a Deputy Attorney-General, I was assigned one bodyguard following an assessment of the security risks around me. Following my appointment as the substantive Attorney-General and Minister for Justice on March 5, 2021, I continued with the same [one] bodyguard to the end of my tenure on January 6, 2025.”

    Dame also addressed suggestions that his lifestyle placed a burden on the public purse, asserting that he personally bore many of his expenses.

    “Throughout my public service, I stayed in one of my private properties which I acquired long before my initial appointment as Deputy Attorney-General. I never made a claim for payment of any money by the State in lieu of the provision of residential accommodation. Further, I never used any government vehicle for my official functions during the week in Accra. All vehicles used by me in Accra for my official functions were privately owned.”

    He demanded a “total retraction” of the claims via the same platform where they were made, warning of legal action should the allegations persist.

    “I hereby serve you notice that a future publication of the same or similar falsehoods by your good self will result in an institution of legal proceedings for punitive damages for defamation together with costs of litigation,” he cautioned.

    Dame also copied the Speaker of Parliament and the leadership of the House to bring their attention to what he described as Dafeamekpor’s “dishonourable conduct outside the House of Parliament.”

  • VIDEO: Military practice in preparation for 68th Independence Day parade

    VIDEO: Military practice in preparation for 68th Independence Day parade

    Officers of the Ghana Armed Forces have begun practice in preparation for the country’s 68th Independence Day parade.

    A video of the officers has been sighted on social media platforms.

    https://twitter.com/PulseGhana/status/1894342613404172673

    Recently, the Presidency has officially unveiled the logo for Ghana’s 68th Independence Day celebration, which will be marked under the theme “Reflect, Review, Reset.”

    This year’s national event, set for March 6, will see a significant departure from tradition, as festivities will be relocated from Independence Square to the forecourt of the Presidency in Accra.

    At a press briefing, Presidential Spokesman and Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Mr. Felix Kwakye Ofosu, announced that President John Dramani Mahama has suspended the rotational hosting policy of the celebration. This move, he explained, forms part of broader efforts to cut costs.

    “Now, this has become necessary, once again, because of the need to scale back on the escalating cost,” Mr. Ofosu stated.

    In line with the cost-cutting measures, the event will feature a more modest program. Activities will include a Military Guard of Honour, reviewed by the President, and cultural performances by two groups of basic school pupils, alongside a poetry recital from a senior high school student.

    The scaled-down ceremony will be attended by chiefs, religious leaders, students from various educational levels, traders, political party representatives, and other sections of society. President Mahama will also deliver a ceremonial address to highlight the significance of Ghana’s independence journey.

    Mr. Ofosu further revealed that all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) across the country would host similarly subdued celebrations, following a directive from the Presidency.

    Despite the downsized nature of this year’s event, two significant activities remain on the national calendar: the commemoration of the historic 28th February Christianborg Crossroads Shooting Incident and the President’s Special Awards for Children.

    The national program will also feature a Guard of Honour by security agencies, complemented by cultural displays and artistic recitals to mark the occasion.

  • Walewale: Alleged military brutality in Gbimsi leaves two injured, shops destroyed

    Walewale: Alleged military brutality in Gbimsi leaves two injured, shops destroyed

    Military personnel have allegedly assaulted residents of Gbimsi, near Walewale in the North East Region, leaving one person with a fractured wrist and another with a swollen eye.

    The attack reportedly happened as soldiers enforced a curfew in the area. The victims have received medical attention and been discharged. This marks the tenth reported case of alleged military brutality within a week of the curfew being imposed.

    Member of Parliament for the area, Dr. Tia Mahama Kabiru, strongly criticized the military’s conduct after visiting the affected individuals. He renewed his call on the Ministry of the Interior to urgently lift the curfew to ease the suffering of his constituents.

    On Saturday evening, another round of alleged military aggression was reported in Gbimsi, where armed soldiers stormed homes, dragging people out and beating them with metal wires and gun butts.

    One of the victims, Mohammed Waliu, was reportedly attacked around 6:30 p.m. outside his house. He sustained a swollen eye and multiple body injuries. His father, who witnessed the ordeal, urged the government to probe the soldiers’ actions, cautioning that such incidents could destabilize the region.

    Another victim, Daniel Yidana, aged 42, said he suffered a wrist injury after being assaulted by soldiers while returning home just half an hour before the curfew started. Meanwhile, Samiatu Yussif alleged that troops ransacked her shop, causing damage, and that she narrowly escaped physical harm after pleading with them.

    Since the curfew was imposed on February 15 in parts of the West Mamprusi Municipality—covering Walewale, Loagri, Kukua, Gbimsi, and Wulugu—reports of military brutality have become frequent, with two fatalities and multiple injuries recorded.

    The latest assault in Gbimsi follows previous alleged attacks in Kukuazugu and Nayilifong, Walewale, bringing the total number of reported cases to ten.

    Dr. Kabiru reiterated his disapproval of the soldiers’ conduct and called on residents to remain calm. He assured them that high-level efforts were underway to restore their rights and emphasized the immediate need to lift the curfew.

  • Military allegedly brutalise Gbimi residents, vandalise shops

    Military allegedly brutalise Gbimi residents, vandalise shops

    Residents of Gbimsi, near Walewale in the North East Region, are reeling after alleged acts of brutality by military personnel enforcing a curfew in the area.

    The latest incident reportedly left one individual with a broken wrist and another nursing a swollen eye.

    The victims, who have since received treatment and been discharged, add to a growing list of alleged military abuses—now totaling 10 incidents since the curfew took effect on February 15.

    The restrictions cover multiple areas within the West Mamprusi Municipality, including Walewale, Loagri, Kukua, Gbimsi, and Wulugu.

    Following a visit to the victims, Dr Tia Mahama Kabiru, the Member of Parliament for the area, condemned the actions of the soldiers and called on the Ministry of the Interior to lift the curfew.

    On Saturday evening, fresh reports emerged of armed military personnel allegedly rampaging through Gbimsi, forcibly dragging residents from their homes and assaulting them with mesh wires and rifle butts.

    One of the victims, Mohammed Waliu, recounted being attacked around 6:30 p.m. while standing outside his house. He is now suffering from a swollen eye and severe body pain. His father, who witnessed the assault, appealed for government intervention.

    Another victim, Daniel Yidana, a 42-year-old community elder, claimed soldiers injured his wrist while he was walking home just 30 minutes before the curfew began.

    Samiatu Yussif, a local shop owner, also shared her ordeal, stating that her store was invaded and vandalised by the military.

    The curfew, imposed to maintain order in the wake of rising tensions in the municipality, has instead been marked by a series of violent confrontations, with reports of two deaths and several injuries since its enforcement.

    Dr Kabiru, reiterating his earlier stance, condemned the military’s alleged excesses and urged residents to remain calm.

  • Accident near Bawku leaves soldier dead, others injured

    Accident near Bawku leaves soldier dead, others injured

    A tragic accident involving an armored military vehicle has claimed the life of a soldier and left several others severely injured at Saka, a community in the Bawku West District of the Upper East Region.

    The soldiers were reportedly traveling from Bawku to Bolgatanga when disaster struck. According to eyewitness accounts, “a tyre burst caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle, resulting in it overturning.”

    In the aftermath of the crash, local residents quickly rallied to support the emergency response. “The deceased and the injured were transported to the Zebilla District Hospital with the help of community members and the police,” a source confirmed.

    Authorities have yet to release the identity of the deceased officer, while investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

  • Individuals in military uniform raid Ofori-Atta’s home

    Individuals in military uniform raid Ofori-Atta’s home

    A group of individuals, including some dressed in military and police uniforms, raided the residence of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta on Tuesday afternoon.

    The incident took place in Cantonments while Ofori-Atta was reportedly out of the country. Some family members, including his wife, were present when the raid occurred.

    According to reports, approximately 12 individuals—five wearing military uniforms, one in a police uniform, and the rest in civilian clothing—carried out the operation.

    Sources indicate that Ofori-Atta has been in the U.S. on medical grounds since the beginning of 2025 after notifying the Chief of Staff.

    The motive behind the raid remains unclear, and authorities have yet to determine whether any items were taken from the premises.

    Despite growing public interest, no official statement has been issued regarding the incident.

  • GNAT considering establishing military barracks in SHSs to maintain order amid rising chaos

    GNAT considering establishing military barracks in SHSs to maintain order amid rising chaos

    The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has raised alarms over the growing trend of violent clashes among senior high school students, suggesting that military presence on campuses may become necessary to restore discipline.

    This comes in the wake of a series of violent confrontations involving students wielding dangerous weapons, including cutlasses and locally manufactured pistols. The escalating chaos has reignited discussions on discipline and moral values within Ghana’s educational system.

    Speaking to Citi News, GNAT General Secretary, Thomas Tanko Musah, expressed grave concern about the worsening indiscipline, attributing it to a broader societal decline in respect and accountability. He warned that unless authorities take immediate action, extreme measures such as setting up military barracks within schools might be the only way to maintain order.

    “If care is not taken in the coming days like I have said, we may have to establish military barracks on our campuses so that they will help to maintain law and order,” Musah cautioned.

    He further stressed the need for stricter enforcement of discipline, lamenting that students involved in violent and criminal acts often face no consequences for their actions.

    “That is where we are heading towards. We may need to employ more military men since the students are now coming with weapons, we might need to employ the military people so that we create military barracks on all the campuses so that when the students pull out their weapons, the soldiers will also pull their weapons, then they will square it up there.”

  • UNISFA GHANABATT 4 ends military leadership training

    UNISFA GHANABATT 4 ends military leadership training

    The United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) Ghana Battalion 4 (GHANBATT 4) has successfully concluded a three-week Military Leadership Training (MLT) at the Army Peace Operations Training School (APOTS) in Bundase.

    The training, which ended on Monday, February 3, was designed to enhance the leadership capabilities of key appointment holders ahead of their deployment.

    With the completion of the leadership programme, a seven-week Military Skills Validation Training has commenced to assess the readiness of personnel preparing for UNISFA and Ghana Medical (GHANMED) operations. Simultaneously, a week-long training focused on preventing child recruitment in armed conflicts is being conducted by the Dallaire Institute.

    Speaking at the event, the Commander of the Army Training Command (ATRAC), Brigadier General Stephen Woseadzikpo Kweku Parbey, emphasized the significance of the validation training, noting that it is a UN-mandated exercise aimed at equipping personnel with the necessary skills and knowledge for mission effectiveness.

    He also lauded the Dallaire Institute for its crucial role in raising awareness and enhancing capacity to prevent child recruitment in armed violence.

    The Defence Attaché of Canada to Ghana, Lieutenant Colonel Charles Palmer, commended ATRAC and APOTS for their collaboration with the Dallaire Institute, expressing appreciation for their joint efforts in strengthening peacekeeping operations.

    The closing ceremony was attended by senior military officials and key stakeholders, including the Commander of APOTS, Colonel Reuben Dela Klutse; Course Observer and Former Commandant of the Ghana Military Academy, Major General Omane Agyekum; Project Coordinator of the Dallaire Institute, Mr. Jean Baptiste; facilitators from the Dallaire Institute; Commanding Officer of GHANMED 4, Captain (GN) Okumanin Kwesi Nsaful; Commanding Officer of UNISFA GHANBATT 4, Lieutenant Colonel Edmund Nana Nyarko Osae; Deputy Commander of APOTS, Lieutenant Colonel Isaac Keelson Ekow Amoah; and representatives from the Formed Police Unit of the Ghana Police Service.

  • Military must reflect diversity of our nation – Omane Boamah assures of balanced recruitment

    Military must reflect diversity of our nation – Omane Boamah assures of balanced recruitment

    Defence Minister-designate Dr. Edward Omane Boamah has pledged to prioritize equitable representation in military recruitment to reflect the diverse makeup of Ghana.

    Appearing before the Appointments Committee on Tuesday, January 28, Dr. Omane Boamah underscored his commitment to ensuring fairness and inclusivity within the Ghana Armed Forces. He stressed the importance of regional balance as a means of fostering national unity.

    “I am a student of equity, and I believe that it is crucial for the military to reflect the diversity of our nation,” he stated during his vetting.

    The nominee emphasized that balanced recruitment across all regions is essential for building cohesion within the Armed Forces and strengthening ties among Ghana’s diverse communities.

    “When we ensure that recruitment is balanced across the regions, we are not just creating an army; we are reinforcing national integration and ensuring that every part of the country feels part of the larger goal of national security,” he explained.

    Dr. Omane Boamah assured the committee that if confirmed, addressing disparities in regional recruitment would be a top priority under his leadership.

    “I will do everything in my power to ensure that no region is left behind in the recruitment process. The military should be a true reflection of Ghana’s rich diversity,” he said.

    Highlighting the broader significance of equity in military recruitment, Dr. Omane Boamah expressed his belief that a diverse and representative Armed Forces is critical for maintaining national stability and unity.

  • Hundreds displaced as violence escalates in Nkwanta

    Hundreds displaced as violence escalates in Nkwanta

    Nearly 200 individuals have fled Nkwanta to seek refuge in Pampawie, Ahamansu, and other areas within the Kadjebi District following renewed clashes in Nkwanta, the administrative hub of the Nkwanta South Municipal Assembly.

    The neighboring Kadjebi District has become a sanctuary for those escaping the unrest.

    Madam Agnes Afua Obour, a linguist and community leader in Pampawie, revealed to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that some of the displaced had requested assistance to facilitate their journey. “We sent them money to help them relocate, and many reached here late Friday,” she said, stressing the urgency of the situation and calling for a unified effort to resolve the conflict.

    In Ahamansu, Assemblyman Hussein Abdulai reported that displaced persons arrived over several days, including Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. He is currently compiling a list of those fleeing the violence for an official report.

    An eyewitness in Nkwanta, speaking anonymously, recounted how the violence erupted during a burial at the cemetery. Armed individuals arrived unexpectedly and opened fire, forcing mourners to flee. “Thankfully, the burial had been completed, so we managed to escape unharmed,” the witness said.

    Reports indicate that the violence has claimed seven lives, with eight houses and shops burned to the ground.

    Cletus Chevure, the Kadjebi District Coordinating Director, stated that he had yet to receive official communication regarding the displaced persons. Similarly, Superintendent of Police Frank Nana Asomaning, the Kadjebi District Police Commander, confirmed hearing reports of people fleeing but noted that no formal information had reached him.

    The once-busy streets of Nkwanta are now eerily empty, with only security forces visible. Military personnel in armored vehicles have established positions across the town, with others conducting patrols.

    Residents have expressed mixed feelings about the military’s presence. While some see it as a step toward restoring peace, others worry it may result in abuses.

    The GNA observed several pregnant women, visibly distressed, making their way through bushes to escape the chaos. One of them, Madam Serwaa Afia Twumasi, spoke tearfully: “I’m scared for my life and the life of my unborn child.”

    The violence stems from a long-standing dispute over the ownership of Nkwanta, involving the Akyode, Adele, and Challa ethnic groups, which continues to fuel the conflict.

  • Military trucks being used to convey food to SHSs – Apaak

    Military trucks being used to convey food to SHSs – Apaak

    Dr. Clement Apaak, the official overseeing food distribution to Senior High Schools (SHS) amid ongoing shortages, has disclosed that military trucks are being deployed to deliver food supplies as part of a nationwide effort to ease the crisis.

    Speaking in an interview, the Builsa South MP revealed that the food distribution was initiated by President John Mahama to ensure all public secondary schools and TVET institutions receive essential supplies without delay.

    “We are dealing with all the secondary schools, about 900 or more schools, including TVET institutions,” he stated, emphasizing the broad scope of the initiative.

    He outlined that the distribution would commence in Greater Accra, with plans to extend to all regions in the coming days.

    Mr. Apaak clarified that the operation is being coordinated by key state institutions, including the Chief of Staff’s Office, Parliament, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Ghana Education Service, with security playing a crucial role.

    “The Flagstaff House is coordinating this assignment. Military trucks are being used to move the food, supported by trucks from the Ghana Police Service and private volunteers who have offered their trucks free of charge,” he explained.

    To prevent any disruptions, Mr. Apaak issued a stern warning against interference with the food deliveries.

    “Let no one attack any truck or think that these food items are being smuggled. There will be security escorts accompanying the rice from Tema warehouses to the various destinations. Should anybody try to interfere, the law will deal with them.”

    The nationwide distribution exercise comes as rising food shortages in secondary schools have sparked concern among education stakeholders.

    Mr. Apaak assured the public that the security measures in place would ensure the uninterrupted delivery of food supplies to all targeted institutions.

    “This is a directive from the President, and we are taking security very seriously. Nobody should try to interfere with this process,” he cautioned.

    He urged all stakeholders to cooperate fully and promised regular updates on the progress of the distribution.

    “This is a collective effort to address a critical issue, and we will ensure the food reaches its intended destinations without delay or interruption,” he concluded.

  • Washing bay attendant jailed 3-years for unlawful possession of military uniforms, fined GHC12k

    Washing bay attendant jailed 3-years for unlawful possession of military uniforms, fined GHC12k

    An Accra Circuit Court has sentenced Mr Alex Cobbina, a 20-year-old washing bay attendant in the Central Region to a 3-year jail term for impersonation and unlawful possession of military uniforms and related items. He was also ordered to pay a GHC12,000 fine.

    Last year, Mr Cobbina posted a video of himself in a camouflage trouser and a naval vest, claiming to be a military officer on “TikTok”, a social media platform.

    The Ghana Navy monitored the video where Mr Cobbina commented on remarks attributed to President John Dramani Mahama about dismissing military recruits who entered the service through protocol arrangements.

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has cautioned the general public to desist from making videos on social media for personal gains aimed at putting the image of the GAF into disrepute.

    “GAF reiterates that persons who are involved in such acts would be tracked down and made to face the full rigours of the law. The GAF further states that the public should heed the constant education and numerous reminders to desist from making malicious comments on social media.”

    “GAF requires the cooperation of the public to refrain from posting negative content about the military on social media as it is detrimental to the development of the country,” the Ghana Armed Forces said in a statement.

  • Any attack on military personnel will be met with forceful retaliation – GAF cautions

    Any attack on military personnel will be met with forceful retaliation – GAF cautions

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has strongly cautioned the public against attempts to disarm soldiers deployed to assist the Ghana Police Service in maintaining peace and order.

    In a statement on Tuesday, December 10, the GAF expressed concern over the growing hostility toward security personnel, warning that such actions would not be condoned.

    The military stressed that soldiers on official duty are authorized to defend themselves, protect civilians, and safeguard property, including the use of lethal force when necessary to preserve lives.

    The GAF pointed out that such aggressive behavior endangers both the safety of military officers and the stability of public order across the country.

    The statement underscored the military’s essential partnership with the police in ensuring security and peace, particularly during periods of heightened tension.

  • Elections: Mahama vows to deal with unscrupulous on military personnel

    Elections: Mahama vows to deal with unscrupulous on military personnel

    Presidential candidate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has slammed military personnel accused of disrupting the declaration of parliamentary results in some constituencies.

    In a social media post shared amidst the ongoing release of election results, the former President strongly condemned the actions of “rogue military officers” reportedly sent to certain locations.

    He accused them of creating chaos and attempting to disrupt the electoral process.

    “This is to caution the personnel involved that they will be held individually liable and responsible for their actions,” Mahama stated.

    Tensions remain high in some constituencies, with reports of violence and alleged interference by security forces raising concerns among stakeholders and observers.

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has clarified that it is not responsible for deploying military personnel, as security matters are managed by the Election Security Task Force.

    Observers are keeping a close watch as the collation of election results continues across the country.

  • You’ll be held accountable for unscrupulous actions – Mahama warns military personnel

    You’ll be held accountable for unscrupulous actions – Mahama warns military personnel

    Flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has issued a stern warning to military personnel accused of violent activities during the 2024 general elections.

    In a post on X, Mahama condemned the actions of some soldiers, who were allegedly deployed to disrupt the declaration of parliamentary results in several constituencies. He cautioned the personnel involved that they would be held individually liable for their actions.

    “My attention has been drawn to the violent activities of some unscrupulous military personnel, deployed to cause mayhem and disrupt the declaration of parliamentary results in some constituencies. This is to caution the personnel involved that they will be held individually liable and responsible for their actions,” Mahama wrote.

    The statement comes in the wake of violent clashes that occurred at the Akaporiso polling station in the Obuasi East constituency of the Ashanti Region.

    The altercation erupted when a man, identified as Hakiki, a Communication Officer for the NDC, confronted military personnel who had arrived in a pickup vehicle. This deployment of soldiers was in direct contradiction to earlier assurances from the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) that no military personnel would be sent to the polling station.

    According to reports, Hakiki was severely beaten during the confrontation, sparking further outrage among NDC supporters. The incident has raised concerns over the role of the military in the election process, with accusations of interference in the collation and declaration of results.

    https://twitter.com/JDMahama/status/1865603526543462509

  • Civilians clash with military personnel during voting in Obuasi East

    Civilians clash with military personnel during voting in Obuasi East

    A violent clash erupted during the 2024 election in the Obuasi East constituency of the Ashanti region between three men in military uniform and civilians. The altercation began when a man confronted the uniformed personnel.

    Reports indicate that the victim is a Communication Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). The heavily armed soldiers had arrived at the Akaporiso polling station in a pickup vehicle, despite assurances from the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) that no military personnel would be deployed to the polling station.

    The victim, challenging their presence, became involved in a heated confrontation, which escalated into an intense physical assault. The clash resulted in Hakiki being severely beaten by the soldiers.

    https://twitter.com/AnnanPerry/status/1865399063073444199

  • Military personnel spotted at Weija ITS polling centre

    Military personnel spotted at Weija ITS polling centre

    Military personnel were unexpectedly seen at the Weija ITS polling station in Accra today, December 7, 2024, despite earlier commitments from security agencies that the military would not be stationed at polling centres during the elections.

    This development has sparked concerns among voters and election observers, as it appears to contradict assurances from the Ghana Police Service that only police officers and authorised security personnel would oversee security at polling stations.

    The sighting has led to confusion and questions about the consistency of security measures. While election officials have yet to comment on the matter, the police have stated that they are monitoring the situation closely.

    Residents at the polling station have expressed mixed reactions. Some are uneasy about the unexpected presence of soldiers, while others remain composed, trusting the authorities to ensure a fair and orderly election.

  • Military has no point being at polling stations; deploy them for state of emergency – Adams Bonaa to govt

    Military has no point being at polling stations; deploy them for state of emergency – Adams Bonaa to govt

    Security analyst Dr. Adams Bonaa has advised against deploying the military to polling stations for the December 7 elections.

    He emphasised that the Ghana Police Service is well-equipped to manage security before, during, and after the polls, suggesting that routine military involvement in such operations should be discouraged.

    “We are not under attack. The military can be deployed only during a state of emergency,” he said.

    Speaking at a democracy lecture in Accra, themed “Ghana’s Democratic Development: Evaluating the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act 2019 for Ensuring Peaceful December 2024 Elections,” Dr. Adams Bonaa cautioned against deploying the military at polling stations.

    Organized by Care for Free and Fair Elections Ghana (Care Ghana) in partnership with Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES), the event focused on addressing rising electoral violence and inflammatory rhetoric from high-ranking officials, aiming to foster transparency and ensure a peaceful, fair election on December 7, 2024.

    Dr. Bonaa noted that despite the introduction of the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act in 2019 to disband vigilante groups—including political vigilante groups and land guards—the number of such groups has increased, now totaling 72. He stated that although roughly 20 groups were officially disbanded, many have since re-emerged, some even integrated as “men in uniform” within various security services.

    “Unfortunately, those who get involved in such acts are promoted. The danger is that those who perpetrated such acts are still in the system and in uniform.

    “Some have modified their operations by forming private security companies to perpetrate the same atrocities in a disguised form,” he alleged.

    Dr. Bonaa emphasised that these practices pose a serious threat to Ghana’s democracy and encouraged voters to reflect carefully, choosing leaders who prioritise accountability.

  • 3 including former military and policer officers jailed 180 years for robbery

    3 including former military and policer officers jailed 180 years for robbery

    Three individuals, including a dismissed military officer and a former police officer, have been sentenced to a total of 180 years in prison for robbing a nurse in Accra.

    The incident occurred on March 2, 2024, when the nurse, Shirley Asafo Agyei, was traveling with GH¢40,700.00 she had withdrawn for a housing project.

    The convicts, Michael Baffour, Isaac Amejor, and Saddick Muntakilu, intercepted her vehicle, dragged her into their taxi, and drove her to a secluded location. They threatened to kill her, handcuffed and tasered her, and stole her bag containing the cash and an iPhone 11 Pro Max valued at GH¢9,500.00.

    Judge Evelyn Asamoah of Circuit Court 10 in Accra handed down the sentences, with each convict receiving 30 years for conspiracy and robbery to be served concurrently. This means each will serve a maximum of 30 years in prison.

    Before sentencing, ASP Emmanuel Haligah emphasized the severity of the offense and the need for punishment to deter similar crimes, especially among security personnel. He argued that imprisoning these individuals would reduce similar offenders on the streets.

    The convicts were arrested on March 26, 2023, and admitted to the robbery in their caution statements. They were identified by the complainant at an identification parade and were subsequently charged and convicted.

  • Military, police unite to fight Bawku crimes

    Military, police unite to fight Bawku crimes

    A new joint Military and Police Patrol team has been initiated to address the increasing crime rates in Bawku and its surrounding areas.

    The official ceremony took place on August 1, 2024, at the forecourt of the Bawku Divisional Police Headquarters.

    Colonel Appah Yaw Owusu, the Joint Task Force Commander for Bawku, emphasized the need for unity among security forces to effectively tackle the emerging crimes in the region.

    He urged the military and police to work cohesively to restore and maintain peace.

    Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Raymond Adofiem, representing the Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC), echoed this sentiment. He highlighted the importance of a united front among the security services to consolidate the progress made in improving security in Bawku and its environs.

    The ceremony concluded with a symbolic joint patrol through the main streets of Bawku, involving the military, police, and other security agencies. The event was attended by heads and representatives of all security services.

    The ongoing conflict in Bawku, driven by ethnic and chieftaincy disputes, has resulted in numerous casualties and significant instability.

    Various stakeholders, including government bodies, traditional leaders, and civil society organizations, have been engaged in efforts to resolve the crisis, though the situation remains fragile.

    In a related development, Mahama Ayariga, Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, has accused National Security Minister Albert Kan Dapaah of receiving GH¢18 million quarterly to manage the ongoing conflict in Bawku. The National Security Minister has yet to respond to these allegations.

  • Jakpa wasn’t released from military due to misconduct – CDS tells court

    Jakpa wasn’t released from military due to misconduct – CDS tells court

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has refuted allegations that former soldier Richard Jakpa was discharged due to misconduct.

    These denials come in the wake of a circulated letter from the Military High Command, which purportedly claimed that Mr. Jakpa, now the third accused in an ongoing legal case, was removed from service because of repeated offenses and inappropriate behavior.

    Richard Jakpa, the third accused in the ambulance case

    The issue came to light during proceedings at an Accra High Court, where Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General Thomas Oppong-Peprah, testified following Mr. Jakpa’s subpoena.

    The defense attorneys for the third accused inquired whether Jakpa’s release from the GAF was based on misconduct.

    Lieutenant General Oppong-Peprah firmly denied that misconduct played a role in Jakpa’s dismissal.

    Despite this, the Attorney General presented a letter as evidence during the trial, which explicitly cited misconduct as a factor in Mr. Jakpa’s discharge from the military.

  • LIVESTREAMING: Military testifies in ambulance case over Jakpa’s dismissal

    LIVESTREAMING: Military testifies in ambulance case over Jakpa’s dismissal

    The Chief of Defense Staff, Lieutenant General Thomas Oppong-Peprah, and the Military Secretary, Air Commodore Nana Adu Gyamfi, are set to testify today in the ongoing ambulance trial.

    The testimony will address documents submitted by the prosecution, which allege that Richard Jakpa was dismissed from the military in 2007 due to unsatisfactory performance and failure to pass promotional exams.

    These documents are seen by Jakpa’s lawyers as an attempt to undermine his credibility as he testified in defense of Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson in the criminal trial.

    Air Commodore Nana Adu Gyamfi is currently in the witness box to present his statement on behalf of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).

  • Military urged not to align with any political party ahead of election 2024

    Military urged not to align with any political party ahead of election 2024

    Defence Minister Dominic Nitiwul has emphasized the importance of military neutrality before, during, and after the December 7 election.

    He reiterated to the military that their foremost duty is to uphold national integrity and protect democracy.

    Speaking at the Republic Day lecture hosted by the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC) on Monday, July 1, Minister Nitiwul, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Bimbilla, underscored this message.

    “The military is the last bastion of our country’s hope,” he stated.

    The Minister highlighted the potential consequences if the armed forces were to lose public trust by aligning with a political party, cautioning that such actions could undermine the very foundation of democracy.

    Also featured at the event were distinguished speakers such as Former National Security Minister Francis Poku and Prof. Kwasi Aning.

    The speakers delved into the crucial role of military impartiality in safeguarding national security and stability.

    Among the esteemed attendees was former Chairperson of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), Josephine Nkrumah, who stressed the importance of the military operating independently from political influence to effectively fulfill its duties.

    The event signifies the commencement of a series of public lectures planned by GAFCSC, aimed at stimulating discussions on vital national security issues in the upcoming months.

  • NPP’s Ernest Frimpong granted bail after arrest

    NPP’s Ernest Frimpong granted bail after arrest

    The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2024 Parliamentary Candidate for the Amenfi East Constituency, Ernest Frimpong, has been released by the Tarkwa Police Command in the Western Region.

    Mr. Frimpong was released on Wednesday evening after the police took a statement from him regarding his comments in a viral video.

    The candidate’s arrest followed the circulation of a video in which he appeared to urge miners to retaliate against police officers and soldiers who attempt to extort money from them.

    In the video, Mr. Frimpong purportedly claims that government initiatives such as #OperationGalamStop, #OperationVanguard, and #OperationHalt I & II have been suspended, implying a green light for galamsayers to mine without interference from law enforcement.

    Furthermore, Mr. Frimpong was seen promising to establish a WhatsApp platform for miners to report encounters with uniformed personnel, including soldiers, and pledging swift action from local authorities. He allegedly encouraged galamsayers to confront any officer attempting to halt their activities.

    Ernest Frimpong has denied these allegations, asserting that he did not endorse illegal mining or encourage miners to fight military personnel.

    He claimed that his remarks were taken out of context from a two-hour engagement with artisanal small-scale miners and emphasized that his intentions were misrepresented.

    Meanwhile, the Municipal Chief Executive for Wassa Amenfi East, Frederick Korankye, has condemned Frimpong’s comments.

    Mr Korankye urged miners to cooperate with security officers as part of efforts to eliminate illegal mining activities in the community.

    “The government is ready to facilitate the documents for you to do your work according to the guidelines set out in the mining laws. So that is what I will plead with the miners. In fact, the land belongs to us so we cannot look unconcerned for them to destroy it the way it is.”

    “So once a while, the military will come and then make sure that they do the right thing. At the beginning of every year, there are rampant armed robbery cases over here, and when it happens like that, we rely on these security services to come and assist, so we cannot be attacking them and then later come and call them to come and help us,” he said.

  • Military officers must not be seen at voting centres on Dec. 7 – Bagbin

    Military officers must not be seen at voting centres on Dec. 7 – Bagbin

    Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has emphasized the necessity of keeping the military away from polling stations in the upcoming December 7 general elections.

    Bagbin announced plans to engage with the President, political party flagbearers, security services, and other stakeholders to implement measures ensuring free, fair, and credible elections.

    In his opening remarks in Parliament on Tuesday, June 11, Bagbin stressed that the military should not be present at polling or voting centres unless summoned to address specific situations.

    “We don’t want to see [the] military during the election. When there is a need to call them, they will be called, but they should not be at polling or voting centres.

    “Honourable members, the clergy and notable civil society leaders will be actively involved. The signs and signals of happiness in the country are not those of assurance and hope.”

    Under the National Elections Security Taskforce Architecture, The Ghana Police Service works with all other security services including the Ghana Armed Forces to ensure peace, security, law and order, before, during and after elections.

    According to the Ghana Police Service, the approach to the 2024 general elections will be no different.

  • Illegal miners butcher military officer at Wassa Akyempim

    Illegal miners butcher military officer at Wassa Akyempim

    A group of illegal miners at a galamsey site at Wassa Akyempim in the Western Region have left a military officer battling for his life after attacking him with a cutlass.

    Sources say the military officer and three other colleagues visited the mining site and were chased out by the miners to a fuel station, where one of the officers was assaulted.

    The officers who accompanied the victim are said to have bolted upon seeing the group of armed miners.

    Reports from Angel News indicate that the victim was struck on the head with a machete several times despite the intervention of some residents.

    It is unknown what may have caused the miners said to be involved in illegal activities to launch an attack on a security personnel.

    Residents who engaged Angel News in anonymity revealed that the military officers regularly visit the various mining sites in Wassa East district but could not tell exactly why.

    Meanwhile, the assaulted military officer has been admitted to the Wassa Ateiku Health Center after the timely intervention of the Assembly man for Wassa Akyempim electoral area, Joseph Akomiah and his Unit Community Chairman, Agogo.

    Also, a report has launched with the Wassa East District Police Command, which has since launched investigations into the matter.

  • Japan informs North Korea about planned military spy satellite launch

    Japan informs North Korea about planned military spy satellite launch

    North Korea told Japan that they want to send a satellite into space next week. They want to launch a second spy satellite for military purposes.

    Leaders from South Korea, Japan, and China met in Seoul for their first joint meeting on Monday, and they received a notification about a launch.

    Japan’s coast guard was told by North Korea that they plan to launch a “satellite rocket” in the waters between the Korean Peninsula and China, and east of the Philippine island of Luzon starting on Monday and lasting until midnight on June 3.

    North Korea shares its rocket launch details with Japan because Japan’s coast guard helps keep ships safe in the region.

    The Prime Minister of Japan, Fumio Kishida, told officials to work together with the United States, South Korea, and other countries to ask North Korea not to launch anything and to be ready in case something goes wrong.

    The launch plan probably means that North Korea is trying to send a second spy satellite into space for military purposes. The military in South Korea found signs that North Korea might be getting ready to launch a spy satellite at its Tongchangri launch facility.

    In November, North Korea sent its first military satellite into space to spy on the US and other military threats. North Korea wants spy satellites to watch the US and South Korea closely and make its missiles more accurate.

    Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, said at a meeting at the end of the year that the country will send three more military spy satellites into space in 2024.

    The UN tells North Korea it can’t launch any satellites because they think it’s really a way for them to test their missile technology. North Korea says it can launch satellites and test missiles.

    The satellite launch in November made tensions between North and South Korea worse. Both countries are now breaking the agreement they made in 2018 to reduce military tensions.

    In the last few years, North Korea has been doing a lot of missile tests to make its weapons stronger. This has made the US, South Korea and Japan work together to make their security stronger too. According to experts, North Korea probably thinks that having more weapons would give them more power when negotiating with the US in the future.

    North Korea was not on the list of topics for Monday’s meeting between Kishida, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Chinese Premier Li Qiang.

    On Sunday, Yoon talked to Li about North Korea’s nuclear program and military ties with Russia. Yoon also asked China to help promote peace on the Korean Peninsula because it is a permanent member of the UN Security Council.

    South Korea, Japan, and the US have been asking China, who is North Korea’s main friend and provides them with money, to help convince North Korea to stop trying to build nuclear weapons. China is believed to not be following all the rules set by the UN to stop North Korea. They are also thought to be sending secret aid to help North Korea.

    On Sunday, the North Korean Vice Defence Minister, Kim Kang Il, said they might take aggressive action in response to South Korean navy and coast guard ships crossing the disputed sea boundary. There have been many fights in that area in recent years.

    He promised to get back at South Korean activists who were sending negative messages about North Korea across the border.

  • President Chad elected following years of military control

    President Chad elected following years of military control

    People in Chad went to vote on Monday to choose a new president. This will end three years of military control by Mahamat Deby Itno.

    Deby Itno became the new leader after his father, who was in charge of the country for over 30 years, was killed while fighting against rebels in 2021. Last year, the government said it was giving more time for the transition period by two years, which made people protest everywhere in the country.

    There are 10 people running for election, and one of them is a woman. Around 8 million people in a country with over 17 million people, which is one of the poorest in the world, can vote. Experts believe that Deby Itno will likely win the election. Yaya Dillo, a top opponent of the current president, who is also his cousin, was killed in February in a way that is still not understood.

    The country, which exports oil and has about 18 million people, hasn’t had a fair change of government since it gained independence in 1960 from French rule.

    The US and France think Chad is one of the few steady friends in the big Sahel area, especially after other countries had military takeovers. The leaders in all three countries have kicked out French forces and asked for help from Russian mercenary groups instead.

    Earlier this year, Niger’s military rulers told all US soldiers to leave. This means that the US will no longer be able to use its important base in Agadez for fighting terrorism in the region. The US and France have soldiers in Chad and think it’s a very important place to work together.

    The West is also worried that if Chad becomes unstable, it could cause more people to leave and try to go to Europe.

    Ulf Laessing, who leads the Sahel program at the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, says these are the reasons why the West is not saying much about Chad’s move toward democracy. “Everyone wants the vote to pass so Deby Itno can be elected, and they can keep working with him to maintain stability in the region,” he said.

    Chad is facing high food prices because of the war in Ukraine and the threat of Boko Haram coming from Nigeria. They also have refugees from Sudan to take care of.

    In March, a group called Boko Haram attacked and killed seven soldiers. This made people worried about violence in the Lake Chad area again, even though there had been peace after the Chadian army stopped the group in 2020. Schools, mosques and churches opened again and humanitarian groups came back.

    “Jean, a teacher at a school in Moyen-Chari province, said that for many years we have struggled with the expensive cost of living and have not found a solution. ” “We want things to be different this year by choosing new leaders in the election,” he said.

    Boko Haram started a rebellion over ten years ago against schools that teach Western ideas, and wants to create Islamic rules in the northeastern part of Nigeria. The fighting has moved to countries next to West Africa like Cameroon, Niger and Chad.

    Human rights organizations want officials to look into the death of Chad’s top opposition leader, Dillo. The government said that Dillo was killed when his group, The Socialist Party Without Borders, attacked the National State Security Agency. But a picture of Dillo showed that he was shot and killed with just one bullet to the head.

    Human Rights Watch said they are very worried about the election’s safety because of the killing.

    “Déby Itno is very likely to win the election because his main opponents have been removed and the people in charge of the election support him,” said Michelle Gavin from a think tank in Washington DC.

    Votes will be counted at the polling stations after they close at 5pm. We will know the preliminary results on May 21st, three weeks later. If no candidate wins, there will be another election on June 5.

  • Four individuals injured after military horses run loose in central London

    Four individuals injured after military horses run loose in central London

    A few military horses ran away from their training near King Charles III’s home in London. They ran through the city, hurting four people and crashing into cars during the busy morning.

    There was chaos when about seven horses from the Household Cavalry got scared by loud noises from construction workers. This happened while the horses were out for a walk in Belgravia, a fancy neighborhood near Buckingham Palace, according to British media.

    The horses without riders ran fast on the main roads in central London. They bumped into cars and surprised people going to work. The horses were caught and are now being checked by doctors.

    Photos and videos on social media showed two horses running fast down Aldwych, between London’s financial center and the West End theater district.

    One of the horses had its front covered in what looked like blood or red paint. The Army has not said if the injury was caused by blood or something else.

    Megan Morra saw a horse with a head injury on her way to work. She told the media about it.

    She said there was a large amount of blood. “To be honest, I felt sad when I saw the poor horse. ”

    A taxi near Buckingham Palace had its window broken by a scared horse, and a tour bus had its windshield damaged.

    “All the horses have been found and brought back to camp,” said a person from the Army. “Some people and horses got hurt and are getting the right medical care. ”

    The London Ambulance Service helped four people in three different accidents in just ten minutes after the horses caused chaos at around 8:30am.

    The horses are from the Household Cavalry. They are the guards for the king or queen and are often seen at events in London.

    Two horses were found in Limehouse, a place 4 miles east of central London, according to City of London police.

  • Ukraine suspends consular services for men of military age in effort to promote enlistment

    Ukraine suspends consular services for men of military age in effort to promote enlistment

    Ukraine stopped helping military-aged men at their embassies until May 18. They are upset with Ukrainians living outside the country who want help but are not helping Ukraine in its war against Russia.

    Many Ukrainian men of military age are living in other countries and Ukraine doesn’t have enough soldiers to fight against a bigger and better-equipped enemy, since Russia invaded almost 26 months ago.

    Last week, Ukraine made a new law to improve how it gets civilian men to join the army. This should help them defend against Russian troops.

    Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that it doesn’t look good when a man of conscription age goes abroad and shows that he doesn’t care about his country’s survival, but then comes back and wants services from the state.

    “It doesn’t work like that. ” Our country is fighting in a war. Living in another country doesn’t mean a person doesn’t have to do things for their own country.

    His angry voice showed that people in Kyiv are getting more and more frustrated with Ukrainian men living outside the country who are not helping in the war.

    Many people have avoided going to war by leaving the country.

    Around 43 million people from Ukraine were living in European Union countries in January 2024. Out of these, approximately 860,000 are adult men, according to the Eurostat database.

    In simple words, the suspension means that young men living in other countries won’t be able to update or get new passports or other important papers like marriage certificates.

    Law that allows the government to mobilize resources and personnel for national defense or emergencies.

    The suspension will stay in place until May 18 when the mobilization law and its rules start. The foreign ministry said this.

    According to the mobilization law, all men of military age must go to draft offices either in person or online within the next 60 days to update their information. Young men who are of the right age to join the military in another country will need to have those documents to get help from their country’s embassy.

    The suspension means people who want to get urgent help from the consulate before the law starts won’t be able to do so.

    Volodymyr Fesenko, a political analyst from Kyiv, said it seemed like the government was trying to make men follow the new law and give their information to the military.

    He said it probably won’t work but eventually many men will have to decide if they want to confirm their Ukrainian citizenship.

    Ukraine started a big war and put some new rules in place. They said that men between 18 and 60 years old can’t go to other countries without permission. They also started getting more men ready to join the army.

    Russian soldiers are moving forward in eastern Ukraine because the Ukrainian soldiers are tired and running out of supplies. Some of them have been fighting for a long time.

    A man from Ukraine who lives in Warsaw and doesn’t want his name to be known, told Reuters on the phone that he thinks stopping the support will make people who are loyal to Kyiv feel left out.

    Another Ukrainian person named Anatoly Nezgoduk, who is 21 years old and studying in Canada, said: “I know there is a war in our country, so I can’t say that this move is strange, illegal or wrong. ”

    “In a way, this makes me less involved with Ukraine’s official presence in other countries. “

  • Kenya’s govt probes crash that killed military chief Francis Ogolla

    Kenya’s govt probes crash that killed military chief Francis Ogolla


    Kenya’s government dispatched a team to probe the helicopter crash that claimed the life of military chief General Francis Ogolla and nine additional individuals.

    The cause of the crash remained shrouded in uncertainty.

    General Ogolla was one of 12 occupants aboard the military aircraft when it went down on Thursday afternoon shortly after departure in the northwest region of the country.

    The bodies of the deceased were airlifted to Nairobi, while the two survivors received medical attention at a hospital.

    In response to the tragedy, President William Ruto declared three days of national mourning, acknowledging the profound sorrow felt across the nation.

    General Ogolla was appointed as Kenya’s Chief of Defence Forces in April of the previous year. Mr. Ruto characterized him as a valiant officer who had perished in the line of duty.

    “Our motherland has lost one of her most valiant generals, gallant officers, service men and women,” Mr Ruto told the nation.


    According to the Kenyan defense ministry’s website, General Ogolla commenced his service in the Kenya Defence Forces on April 24, 1984. He was set to commemorate 40 years in the military the following week. Beginning his journey as a 2nd lieutenant in the country’s air force, he underwent training as a fighter pilot with the US Air Force, as noted by the ministry. In 2018, he ascended to the position of commander of the air force.

    The other individuals tragically lost in the crash were identified as Brigadier Swale Saidi, Colonel Duncan Keittany, Lieutenant Colonel David Sawe, Major George Benson Magondu, Captain Sora Mohamed, Captain Hillary Litali, Senior Sergeant John Kinyua Mureithi, Sergeant Cliphonce Omondi, and Sergeant Rose Nyawira.

    Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chair of the African Union Commission, extended the organization’s “thoughts and prayers” to Kenya’s president, government, and people in the wake of the “tragic helicopter accident.”

    The officers had journeyed to Kenya’s North Rift region, a area plagued by banditry, with a mission to reopen schools shuttered due to bandit attacks. Additionally, they had visited military personnel deployed to stabilize the region.

    In June 2021, at least 10 soldiers lost their lives when their helicopter crashed during landing near the capital, Nairobi.

  • iPhone thieves forced to roll on the ground by military officer at Kwame Nkrumah Circle

    iPhone thieves forced to roll on the ground by military officer at Kwame Nkrumah Circle

    A noteworthy incident unfolded at Kwame Nkrumah Circle in Accra, where a military officer took decisive action against two individuals attempting to steal phones.

    A viral video circulating on the internet captured the moment when the officer disciplined the culprits, compelling them to lie flat on the ground.

    Demonstrating his authority, the military man directed the individuals to roll from one end to the other as a punishment for their attempted theft.

    The video has sparked widespread attention online, with many commending the officer for his vigilance in addressing crime.

  • Military pensioners to undergo quarterly verification exercise to receive pay

    Military pensioners to undergo quarterly verification exercise to receive pay

    The Controller and Accountant General’s Department has instructed retired military personnel and military widows who receive government pension under Cap 30 to participate in quarterly validation exercises at a Veterans Administration, Ghana (VAG) District of their choice.

    This validation is necessary to ensure the continuation of their monthly pension payments.

    According to a statement released by VAG on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, all Cap 30 Pension Associations, including VAG, must validate their members quarterly and submit the returns to the Controller and Accountant General for the processing of pension payments.

    Failure to comply with this requirement may result in individuals being removed from the payroll.

    The statement, signed by Major (Retired) Amadu Anicks Lawson Dinko on behalf of the Executive Director, urged all military veterans and military widows receiving government pensions to promptly register with a VAG District to avoid any disruptions to their pension payments.

  • One killed during clash between military officers and Karaga residents

    One killed during clash between military officers and Karaga residents

    A clash between residents and the military in the Karaga District of the Northern Region, has resulted in the death of an individual, according to sources.

    A young girl died from bullet injuries at the Tamale Teaching Hospital, where two others with serious injuries are also receiving treatment.

    The conflict began with disturbances on Monday morning in Karaga township, where men in military uniforms and vehicles attempted to arrest the Regent of Karaga, Adam Sumani, at the old Karaga Palace.

    Residents resisted the arrest, leading to gunshots being fired for about 45 minutes and injuring 12 people. Three of the injured were referred to the Tamale Teaching Hospital, where one later died.

    The military also conducted a house-to-house search, lasting nearly two hours. Tensions in Karaga have been ongoing for two years, stemming from the installation of Abdulai Nantogma as Chief of Karaga by Ya Na Abukari II, which has been resisted by some who support Mahama Sumani as Kar-Naa.

    Adam Sumani assumed the role of regent after Mahama Sumani’s death on March 12, 2024, escalating the recent disturbances.

  • Dr Congo denies signing military cooperation with Russia

    Dr Congo denies signing military cooperation with Russia

    The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo refutes claims of signing a military cooperation agreement with Russia.

    In a statement issued on Thursday, the Ministry of Communication and Media clarified, “There is, to date, no recently signed military cooperation agreement between Russia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.”

    This denial comes in response to an article published by the Russian state-owned news agency TASS on Tuesday, asserting that Russia’s government had approved a draft military cooperation agreement with DR Congo.

    According to TASS, citing a government document, the agreement involved joint drills, military training, and the possibility of warships and warplanes visits upon invitation or request.

    DR Congo acknowledges the existence of the draft agreement, initiated by the two countries in 1999 but emphasizes that it has not been finalized or signed.

    “The Democratic Republic of Congo is not engaged in bilateral discussions with Russia for the implementation of this draft agreement at present,” the communications ministry added.

    Russia has been actively expanding its military partnerships in Africa to increase its political influence on the continent. Notably, through the Wagner mercenary group, Russia has provided military support to various countries, including the Central African Republic and the junta-led governments of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.

  • Video: Netizens react to military stunts on Independence day

    Video: Netizens react to military stunts on Independence day

    A viral video circulating on social media identifies Ghanaian military personnel who shocked viewers with a daring helicopter stunt, hanging from a rope as the aircraft lifted off the ground.

    The footage captured the soldiers gripping tightly to the helicopter’s rope, suspended in mid-air as the aircraft ascended at a rapid pace.

    The display of military prowess has sparked a range of reactions online, with some expressing concern about the potential risks, fearing what might happen if the rope were to detach from the helicopter.

    On the flip side, others are celebrating the impressive demonstration of Ghana’s military capabilities, adding an element of excitement to the online discourse.

    Watch video below:

  • Sudan’s military leader conditions conflict resolution on AU membership reinstatement

    Sudan’s military leader conditions conflict resolution on AU membership reinstatement

    Sudan’s military leader, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, asserts that Sudan will only engage with the African Union’s (AU) conflict resolution proposal if the AU reinstates its full membership status.

    The AU suspended Sudan after a military takeover on October 25, 2021.

    General Burhan met with members of the AU High-Level Panel on the Resolution of the Conflict in Sudan, led by Mohamed Ibn Chambas, on Sunday.

    The three-member panel, established by the AU Commission in January, aims to facilitate dialogue, restore constitutional order, and collaborate with Sudanese stakeholders and the international community for lasting peace.

    A statement on Sudan’s ruling Sovereign Council’s Facebook page cited General Burhan expressing Sudan’s confidence in the AU’s potential solutions to end the war, contingent upon the state’s full membership restoration and recognition by the organization.

    Ibn Chambas reiterated the AU’s dedication to resolving the conflict and reinstating stability in

  • Putin pledges to make military gains after meeting his campaign crew

    Putin pledges to make military gains after meeting his campaign crew

    President Putin said on Wednesday that he will make sure Ukrainian forces stay away from Russia. He also met with people helping him in his campaign for the March presidential election, which he is likely to win.

    When asked about the military plan in Ukraine, Putin said that they need to move the line where fighting is happening further away from their country. They want to do this so that they are safe from the long-range guns that Ukraine is getting from the West and using to attack cities.

    He said that the Russian military has been pushing the enemy away from important cities.

    “Our guys are fighting and risking their lives there to protect the Motherland and our people,” he said.

    Ukraine has attacked inside Russia recently, including a Dec. 30 attack happened at Belgorod. It killed 25 people and hurt more than 100.

    Putin also said that Russian investigators found that Ukraine used air defense systems from the U. Sto shoot down a Russian military plane in the Belgorod region on Jan. The text is missing, so it cannot be rewritten in simpler words. Russian officials said that the crash killed all 74 people on the plane, including 65 Ukrainian prisoners of war who were being taken to exchange with others.

    Ukrainian officials didn’t say they didn’t shoot down the plane, but they also didn’t admit it. They want people from other countries to investigate.

    Putin said Russia wants to have an international investigation into what he called a “crime” by Ukraine and would demand it.

    Putin, who is 71 years old, is running for president without belonging to any political party. He has been in power for 24 years and has a strong grip on Russia’s political system.

    With important people who disagree with him in jail or living in other countries, and most news sources that report without bias are not allowed, he will most likely win the presidential election on March 15-17.

    “Russia had to protect its interests using the military,” Putin said during the meeting with his campaign team. He also mentioned that Russian troops were making progress near the town of Avdiivka in eastern Ukraine during the meeting.

    “We are going through a tough and important time for our country. We are working on making our country strong and independent in every way,” he said. “Dirt that is always there is getting cleaned away little by little. ”

    After changing the constitution, Putin can run for president two more times, and potentially stay in power until 2036. He has been the leader of the Kremlin for longer than anyone since Josef Stalin, who was the leader until he died in 1953.

    Three more people from political parties in the government are also running for election: Nikolai Kharitonov from the Communist Party, Leonid Slutsky from the nationalist Liberal Democratic Party, and Vladislav Davankov from the New People Party.

    All three groups have mostly agreed with the Kremlin’s rules. Kharitonov competed against Putin in 2004 and came in second place, far behind.

    Boris Nadezhdin, who is 60 years old and works in local government near Moscow, wants to run for office. He has said that the fighting in Ukraine should stop and we should talk to the West.

    Many Russians signed papers to support Nadezhdin, showing they disagree with the strict rules of politics. This could be a problem for the government. On Wednesday, Nadezhdin gave 105,000 signatures to the Central Election Commission. They will check them in the next few days.

  • M23 rebels attack Tanzanian military vehicles in Congolese town

    M23 rebels attack Tanzanian military vehicles in Congolese town

    Witnesses have reported that two Tanzanian military armoured vehicles were struck by shells fired by M23 rebels in the Congolese town of Sake.

    The incident, which occurred on Thursday, resulted in the injury of one Tanzanian soldier and a civilian, according to a Congolese military source and an eyewitness.

    However, the Tanzanian army spokesperson stated that they were not informed of the attack.

    Tanzania, along with South Africa and Malawi, deployed troops to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) as part of the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) mission. Sadc troops, in collaboration with the Congolese army, have been engaged in clashes with M23 rebels since early February, particularly in the vicinity of Sake. Earlier this month, two South African soldiers were killed in an attack in the same area.

    The Sadc intervention followed the withdrawal of the East African Community force, which was ordered by Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi due to perceived inefficiency in combating the M23 insurgency.

    In light of the recent escalation in violence, the Congolese army has been advising residents to evacuate Sake. While some have opted to remain, a significant number have fled to the outskirts or to the nearby city of Goma, approximately 25km (15 miles) away.

    The United Nations estimates that the recent hostilities have displaced around 215,000 people towards Goma, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in a region already burdened with a large refugee population.

  • Adopt Defence Committee’s report on military invasion in Ashaiman – Regent, others petition Bagbin

    Adopt Defence Committee’s report on military invasion in Ashaiman – Regent, others petition Bagbin

    The Regent of Ashaiman, Nii Annang Adzor, along with six others, has submitted a petition to Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Bagbin, urging the adoption of the Defence and Interior Committee’s report.

    The committee investigated the circumstances surrounding the military invasion of Ashaiman on March 7, 2023.

    The petition emphasizes that any further delay in implementing the committee’s recommendations would be a denial of justice to the victims of the military brutalization.

    The petition, dated February 1, states, “Sir, the said committee has concluded its works and has made recommendations to the House for adoption as captured at pages I 1 and 12 of the said report and same attached herein. The victims of the military brutalisation, the regent and residents of Ashaiman humbly request that for the interest of Justice, the House should adopt the said committee’s report as Well as its recommendations timeously, since Justice delayed is Justice denied”.

    Following the killing of a military colleague, Trooper Imoro Sherif, in Ashaiman, the parliamentary committee, led by Speaker Alban Bagbin, was tasked to investigate the incident.

    The soldiers’ actions resulted in injuries and deaths among the residents.

    The committee’s report, submitted in November 2023, recommended prompt and adequate compensation by the State for those brutalized and whose properties were damaged during the military operation.

    Despite the recommendations, there has been no action taken three months after the report submission, prompting the petition for swifter justice.

  • No military interference in election 2024 – Ghana Police Service

    No military interference in election 2024 – Ghana Police Service

    The Ghana Police Service has indicated that the December 7, 2024, polls will be held devoid of military intervention.

    According to him, the Ghana Police Service, together with its sister institutions, including the Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana Prisons Service, etc., is poised to spearhead the elections without employing the services of the military. 

    “It’s going to be only the police, the prisons, fire, and then immigration, they are going to conduct the elections. These institutions are going to support us. 

    “It is our baby. It is the baby of the police but we are bringing in our sister security to assist,” he said. 

    Additionally, he said political parties in the country have declared their willingness to cooperate with the Ghana Police Service and other security agencies in ensuring a violence free election in the upcoming 2024 polls. 

    Speaking in an interaction with JoyNews, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Prince Gabriel Waabu, revealed the Ghana Police service has held various engagements with the political parties who have pledged to play by the rules. 

    Asked about the relationship between the Ghana Police Service and political parties he said: “We have this rapport and we are engaging them one-on-one. We know with their assistance it would be a perfect thing.  

    “[We had a one-on-one kind of invitation. It was cordial. Very cooperative and they are going to play by the rules,” he said.  

    He, however, entreated political parties to talk to their followers and ensure that they eschew insults in their comments especially during the electioneering period. 

    He believes that if these are adhered to, “we would have a very beautiful election this year.” 

  • Election 2024: The military won’t be involved this year – Ghana Police Service

    Election 2024: The military won’t be involved this year – Ghana Police Service

    The Ghana Police Service has indicated that the December 7, 2024, polls will be held devoid of military intervention.

    According to him, the Ghana Police Service, together with its sister institutions, including the Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana Prisons Service, etc., is poised to spearhead the elections without employing the services of the military. 

    “It’s going to be only the police, the prisons, fire, and then immigration, they are going to conduct the elections. These institutions are going to support us. 

    “It is our baby. It is the baby of the police but we are bringing in our sister security to assist,” he said. 

    Additionally, he said political parties in the country have declared their willingness to cooperate with the Ghana Police Service and other security agencies in ensuring a violence free election in the upcoming 2024 polls. 

    Speaking in an interaction with JoyNews, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Prince Gabriel Waabu, revealed the Ghana Police service has held various engagements with the political parties who have pledged to play by the rules. 

    Asked about the relationship between the Ghana Police Service and political parties he said: “We have this rapport and we are engaging them one-on-one. We know with their assistance it would be a perfect thing.  

    “[We had a one-on-one kind of invitation. It was cordial. Very cooperative and they are going to play by the rules,” he said.  

    He, however, entreated political parties to talk to their followers and ensure that they eschew insults in their comments especially during the electioneering period. 

    He believes that if these are adhered to, “we would have a very beautiful election this year.” 

  • 11 months after Imoro Sherrif, another soldier killed in Ashaiman

    11 months after Imoro Sherrif, another soldier killed in Ashaiman

    Another military officer is said to have been killed near the Ashaiman Kuffour Station.

    The incident, which occurred on Thursday, February 15, 2024, has caused apprehension in the community as details of the brutal attack continue to emerge.

    Initial reports suggest that the officer was robbed and killed while trying to withdraw money from an ATM in the early hours of the morning. Rumors in the town indicate that the officer’s pregnant wife was hospitalized, requiring urgent financial support for her treatment.

    It is believed that the officer, seeking funds for his wife’s medical expenses, went to a nearby ATM belonging to his bank, where he was ambushed and attacked by unknown assailants, leading to his death.

    Despite the incident happening recently, information about it has only started to spread in the town, causing widespread fear among residents.

    The possibility of military intervention in response to the murder has further heightened tensions, leaving many residents anxious about potential further violence.

    This reported unfortunate incident follows approximately 11 months ago, reports emerged of soldiers allegedly conducting a violent operation in Ashaiman, a suburb of Accra, since midnight.

    This incident occurred shortly after their colleague, Imoro Sherrif, was stabbed to death by unknown assailants in the area in March 2023.

    Videos circulating on social media showed a young man screaming amidst sounds of flogging, while a neighbor quietly filmed from a nearby window.

    On March 9, 2023, the funeral service for soldier Imoro Sherrif, who was allegedly stabbed to death in Taifa, a suburb of Ashaiman, took place. It was a poignant morning as military officers, unable to conceal their emotions, gave their 21-year-old colleague his final journey.

    The body was prepared for burial at the 37 Military Hospital in Accra, where Islamic rituals were performed before the National Chief Imam, Sheik Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, prayed for his soul.

    Meanwhile, information reaching our news desk indicates that Ernest Henry Norgbey, the Member of Parliament for Ashaiman, is en route to the constituency to curb any tension.

    Additionally, the Deputy Minister of Defense plans to visit Michel Camp to meet with commanders and discuss the situation.

    Imams in Ashaiman have advised male residents to stay indoors or seek refuge.

  • MP heads to Ashaiman after murder of military officer to halt retaliation – Report

    MP heads to Ashaiman after murder of military officer to halt retaliation – Report

    Information reaching our news desk indicates that Ernest Henry Norgbey, the Member of Parliament for Ashaiman, is en route to the constituency following the murder of a military officer near the Ashaiman Kuffour Station on Thursday, February 15, 2024.

    Additionally, the Deputy Minister of Defense plans to visit Michel Camp to meet with commanders and discuss the situation.

    Imams in Ashaiman have advised male residents to stay indoors or seek refuge, indicating a heightened sense of caution in the area. There is a possibility that stores will close within the next few hours, reflecting the community’s apprehension.

    https://twitter.com/GhanaCrimes/status/1758412250698658005?s=20

    The murder of a military officer has plunged the community into shock and fear.

    Initial reports suggest that the officer was robbed and killed while trying to withdraw money from an ATM in the early hours of the morning.

    Rumors in the town indicate that the officer’s pregnant wife was hospitalized, requiring urgent financial support for her treatment.

    Approximately 11 months ago, reports emerged of soldiers allegedly conducting a violent operation in Ashaiman, a suburb of Accra, since midnight.

    This incident occurred shortly after their colleague, Imoro Sherrif, was stabbed to death by unknown assailants in the area in March 2023.

    Videos circulating on social media showed a young man screaming amidst sounds of flogging, while a neighbor quietly filmed from a nearby window.