Global Update

Ghana News Live Blog: Key Updates Throughout Monday, January 26, 2026

Published

4 months ago

January 26, 2026

GNG Staff

Stay tuned! We’ll refresh this page as new developments emerge across politics, public safety, and civic affairs.

(Last updated: 7:30 pm on January 26, 2026. Check back for more stories.)

Court Dismisses Unauthorized Applicant’s Claim in Daddy Lumba Estate Case

A High Court in Kumasi has struck out an application related to the estate of the late highlife musician Charles Kwadwo Fosuh (Daddy Lumba) after a named applicant, his daughter Charlyn Fosuh, denied consenting to her inclusion in the legal action. The motion for misjoinder was upheld by Justice Hannah Taylor, removing her name from the application seeking letters of administration. Fosuh’s counsel emphasised that she had not authorised any affidavit in her name and preferred the family resolve estate matters privately to preserve unity while protecting her father’s legacy.

Prominent Figures Challenge Party Delegate Systems at Supreme Court

Elder statespersons including Prof. Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, and Dr. Christine Amoako-Nuamah have filed a constitutional writ at the Supreme Court challenging the delegate-based candidate selection systems used by Ghana’s major political parties — the NPP, NDC, and CPP. They argue these systems disenfranchise ordinary party members by limiting voting rights in internal elections to a small class of delegates. The plaintiffs claim such practices violate democratic principles under the 1992 Constitution and seek rulings to mandate broader participation and compliance by political parties and the Electoral Commission.

Minority in Parliament Questions Chief Justice’s Institutional Visits

The Minority in Ghana’s Parliament has criticised Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie’s ongoing visits to state institutions, alleging the engagements resemble a politically motivated “thank-you tour” following his appointment. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin stated the caucus would boycott a planned visit to Parliament and called for direct engagement with the judiciary on substantive issues. Supporters of the visits say they are aimed at strengthening collaboration across government sectors.

NDC Government Draws Criticism Over Delay in Passing Anti-LGBTQ Law

The Minority in Parliament has accused the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) of hypocrisy and stalling on the anti-LGBTQ Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, which they say was championed by the party while in opposition. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin highlighted that despite previous advocacy, the government has been quiet on advancing the bill a year after assuming office, using procedural delays as justification. Critics argue this represents a departure from earlier commitments made during electoral campaigns.

Ghana Law Society Postpones Press Conference Amid Legal Battle

The President of the Ghana Law Society (GLS), Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, has postponed a scheduled press conference due to an ongoing legal dispute. This follows a high court injunction application challenging the GLS’s recent accreditation and its claimed authority to issue practising licences — functions traditionally held by the Ghana Bar Association and General Legal Council. The postponement adds complexity to the unfolding legal tussle within Ghana’s legal profession. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Ghana-Law-Society-postpones-press-conference-over-pending-lawsuit-2018942

(Last updated: 2:30 pm on January 26, 2026. Check back for more stories.)

Felix Kwakye: No Special Treatment for Ken Ofori-Atta Under the Law

Government Communications Minister Felix Kwakye Ofosu has stated that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta cannot receive preferential treatment amid ongoing investigations into his tenure. Speaking on JOYNEWS’ AM Show, Kwakye stated that equality before the law applies to all, including Ofori-Atta, who faces probes by the Office of the Special Prosecutor over alleged financial mismanagement. He noted legal recourse exists for any unlawful institutional actions, amid Ofori-Atta’s detention by U.S. ICE following visa revocation. The comments follow public debates on fairness and potential extradition issues.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/ken-ofori-atta-cannot-receive-special-treatment-under-the-law-felix-kwakye/

Police Bust Suspected Cocaine Haul on Accra-Aflao Highway

A joint intelligence-led operation by the Volta Regional Police intercepted a black Liberty Jeep (registration FK692KF) near Kpotame on the Accra-Aflao road, seizing ten parcels of compressed substances suspected to be cocaine (each ~1kg) and half a kilogram of suspected Indian hemp hidden in the vehicle’s boot. The driver, 46-year-old Nigerian national Charles Adenkule, was arrested and is assisting investigations. The estimated street value of the cocaine is GH¢1,032,650, with exhibits sent for forensic analysis. Regional Police Commander DCOP Wisdom Akorli praised the officers’ professionalism.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/police-intercepts-vehicle-in-drug-bust-on-accra-aflao-road/

BREAKING: Abu Trica Re-Arrested by NACOC After Court Discharge

Ghanaian socialite Frederick Kumi, alias Abu Trica, was re-arrested by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) shortly after the Gbese District Court discharged him when the state withdrew charges. The re-arrest followed an attempt to detain him in the courtroom, which reportedly upset the judge. Abu Trica and co-accused were taken to NACOC headquarters for what his legal team described as possible administrative purposes. The case relates to a U.S. indictment for an alleged $8+ million online romance scam using AI-generated profiles targeting elderly victims.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/BREAKING-Abu-Trica-re-arrested-2018893

Kpebu Alleges Some Ex-NPP Appointees Avoid Prosecution Due to NDC Campaign Funding

Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has claimed that certain former New Patriotic Party (NPP) appointees implicated in corruption are escaping legal action because they financed the National Democratic Congress (NDC) 2024 election campaign. In a TV3 interview, Kpebu described Ghana’s political scene as “dicey,” suggesting pre-election “horse-trading” where financial support secures protection. He argued the lack of prosecutions against expected targets points to such arrangements, common across administrations.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Some-Ex-NPP-appointees-walking-free-because-they-financed-NDC-campaign-Kpebu-2018837

Ghana Deploys Over 130 Health Professionals to Caribbean Under Labour Exchange Programme

Ghana has begun deploying health professionals to Caribbean nations to tackle unemployment among its qualified graduates, with over 130 workers sent to Antigua and Barbuda for midwifery, mental health, and general care roles under a three-year contract. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah-Akandoh explained the Labour Exchange Programme addresses a backlog of more than 80,000 unemployed health professionals, with future batches planned for Jamaica, Barbados, and Trinidad. The initiative creates jobs abroad while filling healthcare gaps in partner countries.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/health/Here-s-why-Ghana-is-deploying-health-professionals-to-the-Caribbean-2018910

Minority Accuses Chief Justice of ‘Thank-You Tour’ Over Ministry Visits

The Minority in Parliament has criticized Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie’s courtesy calls to ministries like Finance and Education, labeling them a “thank-you tour” for his appointment rather than genuine consultations. They questioned his impartiality and stated they would not participate, though open to formal engagement. The visits aimed to strengthen judiciary-executive collaboration, but the accusations raise concerns about perceived bias and judicial independence. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Are-you-on-a-thank-you-tour-Minority-blasts-Chief-Justice-over-ministry-visits-2018909

(Last updated: 8:00 am on January 26, 2026. Check back for more stories)

American Streamer IShowSpeed Lands in Ghana to Massive Airport Welcome

American internet sensation IShowSpeed touched down at Kotoka International Airport on January 26, 2026, sparking scenes of excitement as stunt riders and crowds gathered in the precinct. The 21-year-old content creator’s arrival, part of his African tour following Nigeria, received support from the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA). GTA Deputy CEO Abeiku Santana shared enthusiasm on X, highlighting planned cultural and fun activities to ensure a memorable visit. The lively atmosphere quickly went viral online.

Ghana Cedi Emerges as Africa’s Top-Performing Currency in 2025 – IMF Data

IMF analysis ranks the Ghana cedi as the best-performing currency in Africa for 2025, appreciating over 40% against the US dollar across more than 20 major economies. This outperformance stems from Bank of Ghana policies and IMF-supported reforms, bolstered by reserves nearing US$14 billion by year-end. The strength signals potential for further stability measures in 2026. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/ghana-cedi-best-performing-currency-in-africa-for-2025-imf/

Devastating Fire Engulfs Mechanic Shops at Sofoline, Destroys Over 100 Vehicles

A massive fire swept through mechanic shops in Sofoline, Kwadaso Municipality (Ashanti Region), around 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, destroying more than 100 vehicles, engines, and upholstery materials. No casualties were reported, though the cause remains unknown—some artisans suspect refuse burning. The incident has caused significant economic losses for local artisans. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/fire-sweeps-through-mechanic-shops-at-sofoline-destroys-over-100-vehicles/

Court Remands Man Over TikTok Claims of Military Plot to Assassinate President Mahama

Ahmed Hassan Abdul Razzaq, a 30-year-old laundry attendant, was remanded into police custody by an Accra court without plea after posting a TikTok video alleging two sergeants planned to kill President John Dramani Mahama. Charged with publishing false news to cause fear and panic, he admitted seeing the claim online but could not substantiate it. He returns to court on February 9, 2026. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/court-remands-man-claiming-a-military-plot-to-kill-president-mahama/

President Mahama Expresses Shock at Rapid Economic Turnaround

President John Dramani Mahama described Ghana’s swift economic recovery as surprising and beyond expectations, noting he anticipated at least two years for visible progress. Inflation fell from 23.8% to 5.4%, and the cedi appreciated 37% in one year, earning praise from IMF and World Bank observers as a model of prudent management and discipline. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/we-are-all-shocked-and-surprised-at-the-quick-turnaround-of-ghanas-economy-mahama/

Electoral Commission Confirms Full Readiness for NPP Presidential Primary

The Electoral Commission assured complete preparedness for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primary on January 31, 2026, with logistics underway: ballot papers secured, materials distribution starting January 27 to regions and constituencies, and voter albums for delegates received. The process promises transparency and credibility. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/ec-assures-readiness-ahead-of-npp-presidential-primary-on-january-31/

Registrar of Companies Announces Fee Increases Effective February 2

The Office of the Registrar of Companies will raise service fees from February 2, 2026, per the Fees and Charges (Miscellaneous Provisions) Regulations, 2025 (L.I. 2512). The adjustment aims to ensure sustainable operations and better customer experience. Full revised fee details will be available at ORC offices and online. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/registrar-of-companies-to-increase-fees-from-february-2/.

Nollywood Star Tonto Dikeh Announces Reconciliation with Ex-Husband After 10 Years

Nollywood actress Tonto Dikeh has publicly revealed her reconciliation with ex-husband Olakunle Churchill, the father of her child, a decade after their separation filled with public disputes and personal challenges. Sharing the news on Instagram, Dikeh attributed the healing to divine intervention, humility, and prayer, writing that “what human effort could not fix, God healed by salvation” and transforming their relationship into one of peace and respect. She urged followers facing difficulties to persist in faith, love, and trust in God. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/tonto-dikeh-reconciles-with-ex-husband-10-years-after-separation/

Gold Surpasses $5,000 per Ounce for the First Time in Historic Rally

Gold prices have broken the $5,000 (£3,659) barrier per ounce for the first time, extending a remarkable 2025 rally of over 60%. Factors driving the surge include geopolitical tensions (US-NATO over Greenland, US tariffs threats), persistent inflation, a weaker US dollar, central bank purchases, anticipated Fed rate cuts, ongoing wars, and gold’s role as a safe-haven asset amid financial uncertainty. Experts note its scarcity and cultural demand in markets like India and China. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/gold-tops-5000-for-first-time-ever-adding-to-historic-rally/

Worst Floods in a Generation Devastate Mozambique: Thousands Affected, Dozens Dead

Mozambique is grappling with its worst floods in a generation, triggered by heavy rains and the Inkomati River bursting its banks, affecting over 642,000 people since early January, mainly in southern and central regions including Maputo and Gaza provinces. At least 12 deaths have been confirmed from the floods (part of 125 total rainy-season fatalities), with tens of thousands rescued—some clinging to treetops or rooftops—amid submerged homes, farmlands, and roads. International teams from Brazil, South Africa, and the UK are assisting, though challenges persist with food shortages and isolated communities. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/people-cling-to-treetops-as-worst-floods-in-a-generation-sweep-mozambique/

Reckless Driving and Overspeeding Drive Surge in Ghana’s 2025 Road Crashes – NRSA

Ghana recorded 14,743 road traffic crashes in 2025, resulting in 2,949 deaths—a sharp rise from the previous year—according to the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA). Director-General Abraham Amaliba attributed the increase primarily to reckless driving and overspeeding, stressing driver behavior over road conditions. Funding constraints limited the Stay Alive campaign, but renewed efforts are expected with the Road Maintenance Fund. Read more: https://citinewsroom.com/2026/01/reckless-driving-overspeeding-behind-surge-in-2025-road-crashes-nrsa/

Ghana Urged to Speed Up Shift to Clean Transport for Climate and Health Gains

The UK–Ghana Jobs and Economic Transformation (JET) Programme has called for accelerated adoption of clean transport under the Ghana Automotive Development Policy (GADP). With transport contributing nearly half of energy-related emissions and air pollution costing $3 billion annually (4% of GDP), the push aims to cut greenhouse gases, improve public health, create jobs, and meet Ghana’s 15% emissions reduction target by 2030. Recommendations include fast-tracking GADP revisions for electric vehicles and supporting financing for low-emission fleets. Read more: https://citinewsroom.com/2026/01/ghana-urged-to-accelerate-clean-transport-transition/

Kennedy Agyapong Stands Firm: No Apology for Calling Bawumia a ‘Liar’

NPP flagbearer aspirant Kennedy Agyapong has defiantly refused to retract or apologise for labeling Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, his main opponent, a “liar,” responding to pressure with:

“I will not apologise. I will apologise my foot. I don’t fear anybody.”

The controversy arose amid the NPP’s Peace Pact signing for unity, where Agyapong resisted until document errors were fixed. His campaign denied circulating fake apology reports, as the row risks deepening party divisions ahead of primaries. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/I-will-apologise-my-foot-Kennedy-Agyapong-defiant-over-Bawumia-is-a-liar-claim-2018820

Ghana Armed Forces Dismiss HIV-Positive Claims Among Recruitment Applicants as ‘Fake News’

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has strongly refuted circulating reports alleging that approximately 60 percent of applicants undergoing military medical screening tested HIV positive. In an official statement, GAF described the claims—first published by classfmonline.com—as completely false and misleading. The military emphasized that the ongoing recruitment medical screening process has not yet concluded, and no results have been released or declared to date. GAF warned that such misinformation undermines public trust and the integrity of the institution, vowing to trace the originators while urging media outlets to verify information from credible sources before publication. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/GAF-breaks-silence-on-alleged-HIV-positive-claims-among-applicants-2018814

One Killed, Two Injured in Truck Overturn Accident at Breku Forest on Accra-Kumasi Highway

A tragic road accident claimed one life and left two others injured when a cement-laden Howo Sinotruk truck (registration AS-4114-24) overturned in Breku Forest near the Pra River along the Accra-Kumasi Highway on Sunday, January 25, 2026. The truck sustained severe damage to its front section. A joint rescue operation by the Ghana National Fire Service teams from Konongo-Odumase and Juaso, led by Siaw Richardson, successfully extricated the injured victims, who were rushed to Juaso Government Hospital via ambulance (GV-589-20). The body of the deceased was recovered and handed over to the police for further action. The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/regional/One-killed-2-injured-in-Breku-forest-accident-2018821

Last updated: 8:00 am on January 26, 2026. Check back for more updates

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Global Update

Just Days Away, GMet Warns Heavy Rains to Intensify in Southern Ghana by Late May

Published

2 days ago

May 21, 2026

GNG Staff

Coastal communities including Accra face ‘sudden and intense downpours’ as flood-prone areas placed on high alert

ACCRA – Southern Ghana has just days to prepare before the rainy season intensifies dramatically, the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has warned, with coastal communities including Accra expected to record some of the heaviest rainfall in the country starting late May.

The warning follows last Sunday’s heavy rains, which left parts of Sakumono, Klagon, Pokuase, and Adjiriganor flooded – a development the agency said could signal what lies ahead during the peak season between June and early July.

“The rainy season in southern Ghana is expected to intensify towards the end of May,” Principal Meteorologist Nana Kofi Opoku told The Ghanaian Times. He explained that coastal communities, including Accra and surrounding areas, were likely to record some of the heaviest rainfall in the country.

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Uneven Distribution, Intense Downpours

Although the overall seasonal outlook points to near-normal to below-normal rainfall across most parts of the country, Opoku noted that the distribution could be uneven, leading to sudden and intense downpours in some areas.

Extreme weather events, including thunderstorms, flash floods, and strong winds, remain a major concern nationwide, he added.

In northern Ghana, rainfall is expected to remain generally low to moderate, although parts of the Upper East Region could experience above-average rainfall.

High-Risk Communities Named

Opoku identified flood-prone communities within the Volta Basin and low-lying urban centers as particularly vulnerable. In the Greater Accra Region, areas such as Kaneshie, Alajo, Adenta, Weija, Tema, and Ashaiman were singled out as high-risk zones due to poor drainage systems and rapid urbanization.

He urged residents in such communities to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures ahead of the peak rainfall period.

Improved Early Warning Systems

Opoku added that the agency had strengthened its early warning systems through satellite monitoring, real-time weather tracking, and improved forecasting tools to enhance preparedness. GMet is working closely with the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), local authorities, and other agencies to respond promptly to weather-related threats.

“Weather updates and warnings will continue to be shared through radio, television, SMS, social media and community networks to keep the public informed,” he stressed.

Simple Actions to Save Lives

The meteorologist urged residents to clear drains, avoid building on waterways, and pay close attention to official weather alerts to help prevent disasters during the rainy season.

With just days before the anticipated intensification, the window for preventative action is rapidly closing. For thousands of residents in high-risk zones across Greater Accra, Central, Ashanti, and Eastern regions, preparation could mean the difference between safety and disaster.

Global Update

These Twins Were Born Minutes Apart, But Have Different Dads; The Truth Tore One Sister Apart.

Published

3 weeks ago

May 2, 2026

GNG Staff

A routine at-home DNA test revealed a biological bombshell: Michelle and Lavinia Osbourne are half-sisters, not full twins. The rare phenomenon known as heteropaternal superfecundation has only been documented about 20 times worldwide.

For 46 years, Lavinia Osbourne believed she and her twin sister Michelle shared something unbreakable, a bond forged in the same womb, born minutes apart, and raised as each other’s only constant in a childhood marked by abandonment and instability.

“She was the one thing that belonged to me, the one thing that I was certain about, the one thing that I was sure of,” Lavinia told the BBC. “And then she wasn’t.”

In September 2022, Lavinia clicked on an email containing the results of an at-home DNA test. She was filled with a sense of dread.

“Maybe subconsciously I knew,” she says.

*Michelle and Lovinia. Image by Emma Lynch/BBC*

The results revealed something astonishing: she and Michelle, non-identical twins born in Nottingham, England, in 1976, do not share the same father. They are half-sisters who happened to share a womb, a birth date, and a mother.

They exist because of an incredibly rare biological process called heteropaternal superfecundation. For it to happen, a woman must release more than one egg during the same cycle, both eggs must be fertilized by sperm from different men within a short window of time, and both embryos must survive the pregnancy.

Scientists have identified only about 20 such cases worldwide. Lavinia and Michelle are believed to be the only documented set of twins with different fathers in the United Kingdom.

A Childhood Without Roots

The twins’ mother was just 19 years old and vulnerable when she gave birth to them. She had suffered abuse at the hands of her stepfather and had spent much of her own childhood bouncing between foster care and children’s homes.

Whenever the girls asked who their father was, their mother always gave the same name: James. But James was never in their lives.

When the twins were five years old, their mother left for university in London — and left her daughters behind in Nottingham with her best friend’s mother, a stern woman they called “grandma.” The only stability the girls had was each other.

“Grandma was strict, not very emotional, not very cuddly. The one constant I had was Michelle,” Lavinia says.

Michelle felt the same: “It was her and I against the world.”

By their mid-teens, James reentered their lives. Lavinia tracked him down and felt she recognized herself in him. But Michelle never felt sure. Deep down, she had niggling doubts. By late 2021, their mother had developed early-onset dementia and could no longer answer their questions.

“I just thought, you don’t even look anything like me,” Michelle says. “So I bought myself a kit.”

The Bombshell Arrives

Michelle’s DNA results arrived on February 14, 2022 — the same day their mother died. James’s last name did not appear in Michelle’s paternal lineage. He wasn’t her father.

After weeks of investigation, Michelle discovered that her biological father was a man named Alex, the brother of a woman who had been friends with their mother. Relatives warned Michelle that Alex had struggled with alcoholism and drug addiction for years and was living on the streets.

But Lavinia still believed James was her father — until she decided to take her own test.

When she opened her results, she was devastated. James wasn’t her father either. And neither was Alex. Her twin sister was her half-sister.

“I was angry with Michelle for having me go through this, because I just didn’t want this reality,” Lavinia says.

Finding Arthur

Michelle was determined to find answers for her sister. Combing through Lavinia’s DNA results, she identified a man named Arthur as Lavinia’s biological father. The twins drove to meet him at his home in West London.

“He was a little bit nervous, but he’s got an exuberant character, like me,” Lavinia says. At the end of their meeting, she kissed Arthur on the cheek. “I just felt compelled, drawn to do it.”

The twins later asked Arthur what he knew about how they came to be conceived. His answer painted a picture of a young woman in crisis.

He said, “Your mother knocked on my door. She was very upset. She was crying,” Michelle recalls. “She went to him because she wasn’t safe, and she was in shock.”

Their mother is no longer alive to tell her side of the story. But the twins now understand that she was a traumatized young woman who turned to different men for comfort or safety within a very short window of time — resulting in the rare biological event that produced them.

Michelle was eventually able to meet her own biological father, Alex. He was clearly under the influence of drugs. The resemblance was undeniable — but so was the distance.

“He’s mine, I’m his, but I didn’t feel like he’s someone I need to take forward in my future with me,” Michelle says. “I just needed to know.”

Two Miracles, One Bond

The twins will never know whether their mother suspected they had different fathers. “It must have driven her crazy,” Lavinia says. “She must have seen something, felt something.”

“I think in the back of Mummy’s head, she knew, but she was in great denial,” Michelle adds.

Today, Lavinia and Arthur are close, seeing each other several times a month — often alongside Michelle, whom Arthur has told she can also call him Dad.

For Lavinia, the devastating revelation has led to an unexpected gift. “I feel like I’ve found a place to belong, and that place is with my dad,” she says.

For Michelle, the truth brought answers but not a new relationship. She has made peace with that.

“We’re miracles,” Lavinia says. “We’re always going to have a closeness that can’t be broken.”

“She’s my twin sister,” Michelle nods. “Nothing takes away from that.”

Global Update

14 dead, 84 injured in Indonesia train crash

Published

3 weeks ago

April 29, 2026

GNG Staff

At least 14 people have been killed in a train collision in western Indonesia, with another 84 injured, according to the country’s train operator.

The collision between a commuter train and long-distance service happened late on Monday in Bekasi, just east of Jakarta, the country’s capital and the world’s most populous city.

Mohammad Syafii, the head of the country’s search and rescue agency, said during a news conference that it was a delicate process to rescue survivors from the mangled carriages.

“There are some victims who are alive to this minute, and we’re hoping to extricate them, but they’re still pinned by the train material,” he said.

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Bobby Rasyidin, Chief Executive of state railway firm PT KAI, said the commuter train first collided with a taxi on the tracks and was then hit by the long-distance train, adding that a women-only carriage bore the brunt of the crash.

One passenger, Heriyati, said she initially intended to use the women’s-only carriage but opted for the one behind it.

She told Reuters she had been on a call with her husband, asking him to pick her up from the station when the collision occurred.

“I haven’t even finished with the call, and the trains collided,” she said.

Taxi operator Green SM Indonesia confirmed on social media the taxi involved was a part of its fleet and had sent information to authorities to assist in their investigation.

Indonesian president Prabowo Subianto said he had agreed to build a flyover near the tracks to help ease heavy traffic congestion.

He added that large parts of the country’s train network are not well-maintained.

Land transport accidents are common in Indonesia, with another train collision in West Java province in 2024 killing four people and leaving dozens more injured.