LIVERPOOL, UK – A 29-year-old man has been sentenced to 23 years in prison for the serial rape of two 18-year-old women in Liverpool, attacking his second victim while on bail for the first offence, court records show.

Amponsah Thompson, of Rocky Lane in Anfield, was convicted at Liverpool Crown Court for raping two young women he targeted outside nightclubs in August and December 2024.

The judge ruled that Thompson should serve at least 15 years before being considered for parole and recommended that the appropriate authorities consider his deportation after he completes his sentence.

First Attack: A Predator Posing as a Taxi Driver

The court heard that Thompson’s pattern of offending began in August 2024. He parked his car outside a Liverpool nightclub and waited. An 18-year-old woman leaving the club approached the vehicle and asked if he was a taxi driver.

Thompson persuaded her to get inside. He then moved into the backseat with the victim and sexually assaulted her.

Demonstrating quick thinking under duress, the young woman insisted on paying Thompson after he dropped her off. The subsequent money transfer provided police with a digital trail that led directly to Thompson’s arrest.

He was charged with rape of a woman aged 16 years and over and released on bail pending further investigation.

Second Attack: Striking Again While on Bail

Despite being under police investigation, Thompson resumed his predatory behaviour. In December 2024, he was again driving around nightclub areas in his BMW. He encountered a second 18-year-old victim who was severely intoxicated and lying on the ground.

Thompson presented himself as a Good Samaritan, helping the young woman into his car. Instead of taking her to safety, he drove her to his flat in Anfield, where he raped her.

Merseyside Police received a report of the rape in the early hours of December 1, 2024. The victim received support from specialised officers.

Police and Community Response

Detective Inspector Leanne Toole of Merseyside Police addressed the case, stating: “We reach out to all survivors of rape and other serious sexual violence to come forward and speak to us. We are here when you are ready and will provide you with all the support necessary.

“We are committed to making safer spaces for women and girls and will relentlessly pursue those who perpetrate these heinous crimes against members of our community.”

Police noted that Thompson was initially charged on December 5, 2024, appearing at Wirral Adult Remand Court. The later sentencing at Liverpool Crown Court revealed the full extent of his serial offending.

Legal Context and Sentencing

The judge emphasised the vulnerability of both victims, particularly the second woman who was incapable of consent due to extreme intoxication. Under UK law, sexual activity with a person who is drunk or unconscious is legally recognised as rape because they are not in a fit state to give consent.

Sentencing Thompson to 23 years, with a minimum term of 15 years, the judge also directed that the appropriate authorities should consider deporting him after his imprisonment. Thompson, who resides in Liverpool, originally has connections to Ghana, though authorities have not specified his immigration status.

Support for Survivors

Merseyside Police urged any survivors of sexual violence to come forward. Support is available through the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Victim Care Merseyside service, delivered jointly by two registered charities. In Liverpool, Sefton and Wirral, support is provided by Rape and Sexual Abuse Support (RASA) Merseyside (0151 558 1801). In St Helens and Knowsley, support is available through the Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre (RASASC) Cheshire and Merseyside (01925 221 546 or 0330 363 0063).

We have curated the most relevant and widely discussed stories in Ghana today for our global audience. Stay informed!

Ghanaian Resident Confronted in South Africa

A viral video circulating online has ignited widespread discussion and triggered emotional responses from Ghanaians who feel betrayed. The video shows South Africans confronting a Ghanaian resident and telling him he was not welcome. The footage, which has drawn strong reactions across social media, reflects ongoing tensions around immigration and xenophobia in parts of South Africa. While this is not news, the latest video is a painful reminder of the fragile dynamics between African nationals and their host African countries, particularly amid economic pressures and rising anti-immigrant sentiment. Many Ghanaians on social media say they feel betrayed, considering Ghana’s staunch front-line opposition to apartheid South Africa.

The video has prompted calls for calm and diplomatic engagement, with many urging authorities in both countries to address underlying concerns while protecting the rights and safety of migrants. Analysts note that such incidents, when amplified online, can strain bilateral relations and fuel broader narratives about African unity and mobility.
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Tsatsu Tsikata Alleges Plot to Kill Him in Prison

Renowned Ghanaian lawyer Tsatsu Tsikata has revealed details of an alleged plot to assassinate him during his time in prison, shedding new light on one of the country’s most controversial legal episodes. Speaking publicly, Tsikata described the claim as part of a broader pattern of intimidation and political pressure he faced while incarcerated.

His revelations have reignited debate over Ghana’s judicial history, human rights protections, and the treatment of high-profile detainees. Legal experts say the allegations, if substantiated, raise serious concerns about due process and institutional accountability, while also adding a new dimension to Tsikata’s long-standing legal and political narrative.
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Over 600 Undocumented Migrants Arrested in Kumasi Raid

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has arrested more than 600 undocumented migrants during a major operation in Kumasi, marking one of the largest enforcement actions in recent years. Authorities say the raid targeted individuals residing in the country without proper documentation, as part of efforts to strengthen immigration control and national security.

Officials noted that those detained are undergoing screening processes to determine their status, with potential repatriation for those found to be in violation of immigration laws. The operation has sparked mixed reactions, with some supporting stricter enforcement while others call for more humane and comprehensive migration policies.
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12 CSOs Seek to Join Supreme Court Case as Amicus Curiae

Twelve civil society organizations (CSOs) have applied to join an ongoing Supreme Court case involving the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) as amicus curiae, or “friends of the court.” The groups argue that their participation will provide valuable perspectives on issues of governance, accountability, and anti-corruption.

The move highlights growing public interest in the case, which is seen as pivotal to defining the scope and independence of Ghana’s anti-corruption framework. Legal analysts suggest that the involvement of CSOs could enrich judicial deliberations and reinforce transparency in high-stakes constitutional matters.
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Over 30 Unsafe Gas Cylinders Discovered in Circulation

Authorities have uncovered more than 30 unsafe gas cylinders operating under Ghana’s Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM), raising fresh concerns about public safety. The discovery was made during inspections aimed at ensuring compliance with safety standards in the distribution of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

Officials warn that faulty or substandard cylinders pose significant risks, including explosions and fires, particularly in densely populated areas. The findings have prompted calls for stricter enforcement, improved monitoring systems, and increased public awareness to prevent potential disasters.
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Accra Emerges as Key Aviation Hub for Gulf Carriers

Accra is gaining recognition as a strategic hub for Gulf airlines, reflecting Ghana’s growing importance in global aviation networks. Industry experts say the city’s location, economic growth, and increasing passenger demand have made it an attractive destination for major Middle Eastern carriers.

The development is expected to boost tourism, trade, and connectivity between Ghana and key international markets. Analysts note that enhanced air links could strengthen Accra’s position as a gateway to West Africa, supporting broader economic expansion and regional integration.
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Accra, Ghana – Ghanaians applying for various categories of US visas must now make all their social media accounts public, the United States Embassy has announced in a new requirement that is being rolled out globally.

The policy, which took effect immediately, affects a wide range of non-immigrant visas including A-3, C-3, G-5, H-3, H-4 (dependents), K-1, K-2, K-3, Q, R-1, R-2, S, T, and U visas. Applicants are required to adjust the privacy settings of platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), TikTok, LinkedIn, and others to “public” to allow US consular officers to review their online activity as part of the security and admissibility vetting process.

The move is designed to help establish the applicant’s true identity, intentions, and potential security risks before granting entry into the United States. While the directive was first highlighted by the US Embassy in Bangkok, Thailand, it is now being implemented at US embassies and consulates worldwide, including in Ghana.

Implications for Ghanaian Applicants

For many Ghanaians seeking to visit, study, work, or join family members in America, the new rule adds another layer of scrutiny to the already rigorous US visa application process.

Privacy-conscious applicants may need to temporarily adjust or archive private content before submitting their applications.

US visa officials will now have broader access to posts, comments, photos, friends lists, and online associations.

This development comes amid heightened global security concerns and reflects the Trump administration’s continued emphasis on stricter immigration vetting. Ghanaian travellers are advised to review their social media presence carefully and ensure consistency between their online profiles and visa application details to avoid delays or refusals.