She made the appeal in an interview with Adom News in Goaso, Ahafo Region, while representing the Yaa Naa at the celebration of the Damba Festival.

According to Yalizuli Gaa Naa, drug abuse among the youth is on the rise and poses a serious threat to national development. She stressed that effectively combating the menace requires targeting those who supply and distribute the drugs.

“Drug peddlers are the root cause of the problem. Security agencies must track them to their hideouts and allow the law to deal with them decisively to safeguard the future of our youth,” she urged.

Meanwhile, the Chief of Dagomba in Goaso, Alana Yakubu Hizikuru, along with the Member of Parliament for Asutifi South, Alhaji Collins Dauda, said the Damba Festival serves as an important platform for educating children and youth about their culture.

They encouraged other ethnic groups to emulate the Dagombas by organising cultural festivals to showcase their rich heritage to the world.

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The march, which started at the Ho Trafalgar Taxi Station and ended at the Volta Barracks, drew the attention of commuters, traders, and residents along the route. Personnel from various security agencies participated, demonstrating unity, preparedness, and commitment to maintaining law and order during the festive season.

Addressing the security personnel after the exercise, the Volta Regional Minister commended their collaboration and dedication, urging them to remain vigilant in protecting lives and property throughout the Christmas period.

In an interview with Adom News, the Flag Officer Commanding Naval Training Command and the 7 Garrison Commander, Commodore James Adongo Agambire, explained that the march was a preventive measure aimed at reassuring the public and deterring criminal activities during the festivities.

He noted that the Christmas and New Year period is often characterised by increased human and vehicular movement, social gatherings, and commercial activities, which can create opportunities for crime. According to him, the march sends a strong signal of the readiness and visibility of security agencies to respond swiftly to any threats.

Commodore Agbambeire added that the exercise also strengthens collaboration and operational coordination among the various security services. He assured residents of Ho and surrounding communities that adequate security measures have been put in place before, during, and after the festive season, and urged the public to cooperate with security personnel by reporting any suspicious activities.

Meanwhile, the Public Relations Officer of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) Volta Command, Ado I Hope Bedzra, told Adom News that the Service is fully prepared to respond to fire outbreaks and other emergencies during and after the Christmas festivities to save lives and property.

Some residents welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely and reassuring. The security agencies also used the opportunity to encourage the public to celebrate responsibly, obey the law, and prioritise safety as the year comes to an end.

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Officials confirm that the operation, executed on December 11, 2025, was one of the most coordinated cross-border law enforcement partnerships in recent years.

The effort involved several Ghanaian institutions, including the Attorney-General’s Office, EOCO, the Ghana Police Service, the Cyber Security Authority, NACOC, and the National Intelligence Bureau, working closely with key U.S. federal agencies.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Sensitive Investigations Unit, Homeland Security Investigations, the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, and the FBI Legal Attaché Office in Accra played critical roles in intelligence sharing, digital tracking, and coordinating legal processes related to the indictment.

Kumi was indicted by a U.S. federal grand jury on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. Investigators linked him to a criminal network that defrauded elderly victims through romance scams dating back to 2023. He is alleged to have moved substantial sums through complex channels to evade detection.

Officials say the operation underscores the growing cooperation between Ghanaian and U.S. agencies in combating transnational crimes, particularly cyber-enabled fraud schemes affecting victims across both countries.

A statement from the Department of Public Relations, signed by Colonel Evelyn Ntiamoah Asamoah, confirmed that the exercise will involve the Ghana Police Service, Ghana Prisons Service, Ghana National Fire Service, the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, and the Immigration Service.

The operation will commence at 9:00 a.m. from Black Star Square, proceeding through major streets of Accra before concluding at the same location.

GAF explained that the exercise aims to enhance operational readiness, deter criminal activity, and assure the public of the security forces’ preparedness, particularly as the festive season approaches. It is also intended to strengthen inter-agency cooperation and reinforce national security measures.

The Armed Forces cautioned residents about a heightened security presence and potential temporary traffic delays in parts of Greater Accra during the exercise but encouraged the public to continue with their daily activities.

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This comes in the wake of a series of violent incidents involving uniformed officers in recent weeks.

On October 5, 2025, masked gunmen reportedly invaded Sampa in the Bono Region, firing shots during clashes between rival groups. A police officer was fatally wounded, while several others sustained injuries.

Likewise, on October 3, an officer of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) was killed and another injured following an armed assault at the Gbintri inland checkpoint in the East Mamprusi Municipality of the North East Region.

In a statement signed by the Minister for the Interior and Responsible for National Security, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, the Council noted that such violent acts against security officers during lawful operations threaten the rule of law, the State’s authority, and the safety of those who serve to protect citizens.

“The Council strongly condemns these acts of aggression, which undermine the rule of law, the authority of the State, and the safety of the very officers mandated to protect the citizenry,” the statement read.

The Council has therefore instructed all security agencies to apply the necessary minimum force to protect themselves and uphold the law when confronted with violent resistance from individuals or groups.

While reiterating that officers who act unprofessionally or abuse their powers will be sanctioned, the Council underscored that attacks or obstruction of public officers performing lawful duties will not be tolerated.

“It must be clearly emphasised that no individual or group has the right to attack or obstruct public officers in the lawful discharge of their duties, whether verbally, physically, or through the use of weapons,” the statement added.

The National Security Council reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining national peace, stability, and public order, while ensuring that all security operations adhere to Ghana’s laws and democratic values.

“The Council reaffirms its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the peace, stability, public order, and the integrity of the security institutions of the Republic,” it concluded.

Source : Adomonline 

The joint exercise, undertaken in collaboration with the NPP’s Organising Committee, aimed to assess the level of preparedness and ensure the venue meets all security and safety requirements.

This inspection forms part of the NPP’s earlier commitment to prioritise the safety and security of participants at the national event.

According to Adom News reporter Kofi Akowuah Twum, the security teams monitored adherence to key safety protocols and evaluated whether the facility met the necessary standards to host a high-profile political gathering.

The presence of the security agencies also served to reaffirm the party’s pledge to deliver a peaceful and well-coordinated conference.

Source: Adomonline.com

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Developed in partnership with the Ministry of Youth Development, the initiative will see interns deployed across key institutions, including the Ghana Police Service, Ghana Prisons Service, and Ghana National Fire Service.

“We have signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of Youth Development for security agencies internship, enhancing youth employability,” Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak revealed.

Speaking at the maiden edition of the Government Accountability Series in Accra, Mr. Mohammed-Mubarak said the programme is designed to provide practical, hands-on experience to young people, bridging the gap between academic education and the job market.

“The first batch of these interns will commence on the 16th of this month,” he confirmed.

According to the Minister, the initiative will not only equip young Ghanaians with essential workplace skills but also bolster the capacity of security agencies by supplementing their manpower needs.

Government believes the programme will contribute meaningfully to reducing youth unemployment while fostering a deeper understanding of national security operations among the younger generation.

Source: Emmanuel Tetteh

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President John Dramani Mahama had earlier directed security agencies to engage with Rev. Fordjour to investigate the allegations.

However, the President’s directive was quickly overshadowed by public comments from Minister of State in charge of Government Communication, Felix Ofosu Kwakye, who dismissed the MP’s claims as “baseless” and accused him of spreading misinformation intended to tarnish the government’s image.

Tensions heightened when operatives from the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) attempted to arrest Rev. Fordjour — a move that was blocked by Minority MPs in Parliament. The Minority cited the absence of a valid warrant and accused the NIB of sidestepping proper legal procedures.

Speaking on Channel One TV on Saturday, April 12, Haruna Mohammed explained that Rev. Fordjour had initially been willing to cooperate but lost faith in the process due to the government’s premature dismissal of the claims.

“The conflict here is that Rev. Ntim Fordjour was ready to collaborate with the investigators. Then government’s communication came out to say there was nothing, and went ahead to comment on the substance of the matter. Do you get the problem?” Haruna said.

He stressed that the MP felt the integrity of the investigation had been compromised once the government publicly declared its position.

“Because the government had already communicated and defended, Rev. Ntim Fordjour lost trust in the process. A position had been taken, and a judgment passed that there was nothing to investigate,” he added.

Haruna also revealed that Rev. Fordjour had attempted to engage the Majority Caucus in Parliament over the matter but was unsuccessful.

As a result, he noted, the MP has since adopted a more partisan approach in pursuing the issue.

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During a press briefing held earlier today, Mr. Opoku confirmed that all necessary preparations had been made to accommodate the large number of visitors expected to flock to the Eastern Region for the annual Kwahu Easter festivities.

“Kwahu is peaceful, and Kwahu is ready,” Mr. Opoku said confidently. “We are excited to host both Ghanaians and international visitors alike. The security services, emergency responders, and local authorities are working hand-in-hand to ensure a safe, vibrant, and memorable experience for all.”

He also expressed optimism about the smooth flow of events and the region’s readiness to receive guests.

Echoing Mr. Opoku’s sentiments, the Eastern North Regional Police Commander, DCOP Isaac Asante, assured the public of the security measures in place for the celebrations. He revealed that over 1,000 police personnel will be deployed across the Kwahu enclave to ensure safety and maintain law and order.

“The region is calm, and we will ensure that peace is upheld throughout the Easter period,” DCOP Asante stated, emphasizing their commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

In addition to the security measures, the Ghana Ambulance Service has announced an extensive emergency response plan, which includes the mobilization of additional ambulances, first responders, and mobile health teams in key activity zones.

This will ensure prompt medical assistance in case of emergencies during the celebrations.

Mr. Opoku also highlighted several key attractions and initiatives for this year’s festivities, including the second edition of the Kwahu Business Forum, aimed at fostering investment opportunities and promoting sustainable growth in the region. He encouraged visitors to take part in the event, which will also provide a platform for local businesses and strategic partnerships.

Additionally, Mr. Opoku invited tourists to experience the famous paragliding event, which has been enhanced for an even better adventure tourism experience.

“Kwahu is home to Ghana’s premier paragliding event, and this year’s edition promises to be the best yet,” he added. As the Easter celebrations approach, Kwahu stands ready to offer a unique blend of safety, excitement, and opportunity for all.

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According to him, this will help victims to get immediate intervention in the shortest possible time.

He stated this in an interview with the media, about roles of the National Ambulance Service in national development.

“National Ambulance Service personnel are not always the first to arrive at an emergency scene, sometimes the Police or NADMO do, and therefore it will be hugely beneficial if they can start with some interventions before the arrival of the experts” he said

In medical emergencies, quick and decisive action can make the difference between life and death.

Basic life support refers to the immediate care provided to individuals experiencing cardiac arrest, respiratory distress, choking or drowning, ensuring that oxygen- rich blood circulates through the body until advanced medical care arrives.

In a world where emergencies are unpredictable, Basic life support training is not just important but essential.

National Ambulance Service has well trained Paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians to provide pre-hospital care, while transporting the patient to the hospital for further treatment.

Source: Alex Treve Quarshie

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The walk, which began and ended at the Police Divisional Headquarters, is a reminder of the importance of harmony among citizens, irrespective of political affiliations.

The event also provided an opportunity for security personnel to engage in physical exercise while sending a strong message of peace to the community.

Attendees included the Regional Fire Commander, ACFO II Naomi Ofori-Adobea, along with heads of other security services in the region.

In a similar initiative, the Eastern Region also saw a peace walk organized by regional security services.

The Regional Minister, Hon. Seth Kwame Acheampong, joined the Regional Commanders of Security Services for the walk.

The group gathered at the Police Regional Headquarters and marched through the principal streets of Koforidua, spreading the message of peace and unity ahead of the elections.

These walks highlight the collective commitment of Ghana’s security services to ensure a peaceful, safe, and secure environment during the upcoming elections.

Comprising Christian and Muslim leaders, the group emphasized that the integrity of the elections depends significantly on the conduct of security forces.

Speaking to the media, Co-Chair Dr. Paul Kwabena Boafo highlighted the critical role of security agencies in maintaining peace and fairness.

“We call upon the Ghana Police Service and all state security agencies to demonstrate professionalism and neutrality during the election,” he stated.

Dr. Boafo commended Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, for his assurance of impartiality and professionalism.

“We applaud the IGP for his commitment, and we expect this dedication to be reflected in their actions on voting day and beyond,” he said.

He further urged the police to create a secure environment that allows citizens to vote without fear or intimidation.

“The integrity of our electoral process relies on the unwavering commitment of our security personnel to uphold the law fairly,” Dr. Boafo added.

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He decried the numerous disinformation and misinformation campaigns targeting the civil populace, the Military, and the Government in this electioneering.

However, Dr Bawumia urged the Military to conduct themselves professionally to ensure the country’s stability and tenets of democracy were upheld.

The Vice President advised during the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC) joint graduation ceremony of Senior Staff Course 45 and Master of Science Degree in Defence and International Politics for the 2023/2024 Academic Year in Accra on Friday.

“As the nation goes to the polls in December to choose a leader and representatives to parliament, it is imperative to conduct yourselves professionally to ensure the stability and the tenets of democracy are upheld always,” he said.

“In the Fourth Republic, governments have always depended on your professionalism, discipline and resolve to discharge your duties without fear or favour,” Dr Bawumia said.

In all, 98 senior officers from the Ghana Armed Forces and 16 allied African countries graduated with Past Staff Course (PSC) Certificates while 42 civilians received Master of Science Degree (MSc) in Defence and International Politics.

The 11-month intensive training took the officers through courses like Military Operations, Terrorism and Counter Terrorism, and Conflict Management.

Major-General Matthew Essien, the Commandant of the GAFCSC, in his welcome remarks, congratulated the graduates for successfully completing the course and urged them to use their network to promote peace and harmony on the African Continent.

He appealed to the Government to expand and modernise the College’s infrastructure, especially lecture halls and residential accommodation, to increase enrolment.

Major-General Essien entreated the graduands to serve as good ambassadors of the College in their respective institutions and work together to safeguarding the peace and harmony of their countries.

Over the years, the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College has been reputed to be one of the best military colleges in Africa.

The Staff College has earned the envious reputation of being a centre of excellence for both military and academic studies.

Consequently, most allied African countries, including Nigeria, Cote d’Ivoire, Togo, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Angola have sought vacancies at the Staff College to train their military officers.

Source: GNA

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The training, held in Elubo and Akanu in the Western and Volta regions, respectively, were part of the Strengthening Border Security (SBS) Project in Ghana.

The workshops are also part of a larger effort of developing, piloting, and validating the Concept and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the functioning of JMTs in Ghana.

This is a novel strategy that ICMPD is proposing in the framework of the SBS project, a statement issued by the group and copied the Ghana News Agency said, in Accra.

There were more than 70 participants and national experts from various border management agencies, including the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), Ghana Revenue Authority – Customs Division (GRA-CD), National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) and the Ghana Police Service (GPS).

This was to improve their ability to function effectively in tackling cross-border crimes, particularly, migrant smuggling, human trafficking, and the threat of insecurity and terrorism.

Speaking at the event, Ms. Iulia Jolley-Socea, Project Manager, Strengthening Border Security in Ghana Project, said the development of Joint Mobile Teams (JMT) was a crucial strategy to improve coordination among key border management agencies in Ghana.

“By bringing together the expertise and resources of multiple security agencies, JMTs enable the agencies to confront border challenges with agility, effectiveness, and unity of purpose through coordinated patrols, intelligence-sharing, and rapid response capabilities.

“This empowers them to proactively address threats at the earliest opportunity, safeguarding Ghana’s borders and communities,” she said.

Mr. Tony Mihaitoaia, Border Management Specialist at ICMPD, explained that joint mobile teams promoted interagency cooperation and built trust among participating stakeholders.

“This collaborative approach fosters a shared understanding of common goals and challenges, facilitating smoother operations and communication,” he said.

He added that: “Mobile teams can also leverage community engagement in border areas to gather valuable intelligence and build strong relationships with local stakeholders.”

In Elubo and Akanu, participants were introduced to the JMT Concept and SOPs, which provide a framework for joint operations, information sharing, and collaborative efforts in securing Ghana’s borders.

The facilitation team also shared valuable insights into key topics such as human rights in border management, situational awareness, and identifying and addressing trafficking in human beings during JMT operations.

Additionally, they engaged in interactive scenario-based training and planning exercises as well as field simulation exercises, practicing complex border security scenarios in a hands-on and interactive manner to enhance their response skills and coordination.

Two similar workshops were organised in 2022 and 2023 in the North of Ghana.

Through a constructive review process, the security personnel reflected on and assessed their performances, identified lessons learned, and provided feedback on the JMT SOPs.

The border agencies also gathered valuable insights and best practices and offered constructive suggestions for refining the JMT framework.

The SBS Project in Ghana is a joint initiative between ICMPD and GIS, funded by the European Union’s Emergency Funding for Africa.

This collaborative project seeks to enhance the capacity of Ghana’s border security agencies, ensuring their long-term sustainability and adherence to human rights and the rule of law.

By implementing initiatives such as the JMT piloting, the project showcases ICMPD’s dedication to strengthening Ghana’s border management.

The ICMPD is an international organization with 20-Member States and 498 staff members. Active in more than 90 countries worldwide, it takes a regional approach in its work to create efficient cooperation and partnerships along migration routes.

Priority regions include Africa, Eastern Europe, Central Asia, Mediterranean, Silk Routes, Western Balkans and Türkiye.

The SBS Ghana project is a comprehensive initiative aimed at enhancing the country’s border security and migration management.

In line with government’s migration policy, SBS Ghana strives to implement a forward-thinking and sustainable migration management framework that drives national progress and prosperity.

The project is designed to strengthen cooperation and coordination among national agencies, academic institutions, and civil society organisations working in the area of migration.

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According to the TUC, the Labour Act permits all workers to join a union in order to safeguard their interests.

At a public forum in Accra, the Secretary-General of TUC, Dr Yaw Baah, announced that the TUC has directed its legal team to go to court for interpretation.

“The TUC is taking legal action on a number of issues. The initial part of Act 651, which defines the scope of the law, restricts certain organizations. For instance, Immigration officers, Prison officers, and the Police are prohibited from joining or forming a union to protect their interests. * We have already instructed our lawyer to take this matter to court.”

Meanwhile, the Tertiary Education Workers Union (TEWU) and two other university unions have given the government a two-week ultimatum to restore their withheld allowances.

The two other unions are the Senior Staff Association of the University of Ghana (SSA-UoG) and the Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA).

Addressing a press conference in Accra, GAUA National President Dr. Beth Offei-Awuku said the non-payment of these allowances is putting undue hardship on their members.

The unions threatened to withdraw their services across all public universities in the country if the government fails to restore their allowances by October 15, 2023.

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Mr Mahama says the security forces must remain neutral at all times regardless of the circumstances. 

According to him, their loyalty is to the State and not an individual or a political party. 

He was addressing branch and constituency executives of Lower West Akyem and Upper West Akyem constituencies at Asamankese in the Eastern Region.

Mr Mahama said political parties come in and out of office but the State must remain the State. 

The NDC flagbearer aspirant urged the security agencies to be fair and transparent in handling political matters. 

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“Security agencies, your loyalty is to the state and not to a political party. You don’t have to support only one political party when chaos erupts. You need to be neutral,” he said.