Connect with us

Ghana News

Top Ghana Headlines: December 12, 2025 – Notorious Fraudster Arrested, Fuel Price Dip, Forex Crackdown Effects…Plus More

Published

on

From falling fuel prices that promise a merrier Christmas, to a brazen courtroom invasion in Bono-East and a major health alert on everyday products, Ghana is making headlines at home and abroad.

Here’s your crisp, no-nonsense digest of the stories shaping the nation today – curated for Ghanaians everywhere and friends of Ghana across the globe. Enjoy.

1. Fuel Prices to Drop for Christmas

Ghanaians could enjoy lighter wallets this holiday season as petroleum prices signal a downward trend, according to Gabriel Kumi, Board Chairman of the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC). Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express Business Edition on December 12, Kumi highlighted global declines in key products: diesel down about 10%, petrol around 6%, and LPG between 1-1.5%.

“Fortunately, Ghanaians are going to have a very good Christmas in terms of petroleum prices, because already the indication is that the price of finished petroleum products is going down,” he said.

The relief is set to kick in mid-December, with a general drop expected by the December 16 pricing window, provided the cedi holds steady. This comes as a second window covering the festive period promises further easing, easing strains on transport and cooking costs for families from Kumasi markets to Accra commuters. For global watchers eyeing Ghana’s economic pulse, this stability underscores the interplay of international oil markets and local currency resilience amid ongoing forex pressures.

2. Crackdown on Forex Black Market Dealers Seen As a Disrupter

The government’s aggressive raids on black market forex traders are backfiring, distorting rates and fueling cedi instability that ripples into fuel pricing, says Duncan Amoah, Executive Secretary of the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC).

On December 11, Amoah’s team witnessed rates swing wildly within an hour while sourcing dollars, blaming the task force’s arrests—such as the seizure of GH¢1.2 million from 41 traders in Accra—for “unintended shocks.”

“Whatever the task force did yesterday… is also having a negative impact,” he noted, urging a “more friendly way” to regulate dealers who supply vital forex access.

This volatility exacerbates fuel costs, as the cedi’s erratic “on and off” performance—gaining then losing value—hikes import bills for petroleum. With recent police actions clamping down on “abokyi” operators, COPEC calls for a policy rethink to avoid worsening distortions. For international investors tracking West Africa’s currency woes, this news reflects the tightrope between enforcement and economic flow in Ghana’s informal markets.

3. Mob Storms District Court, Frees Prisoners in Shocking Assault on Justice System

A violent mob disrupted proceedings at the Kwame Danso District Court in Bono-East Region on December 10, freeing two remand prisoners and leaving judicial staff traumatized in a brazen attack that has sparked nationwide outrage.

The incident unfolded during the trial of Isaac Kwabena Mintah and two others on charges of unlawful damage, stealing, and assault; enraged locals, chanting threats from the nearby police station, stormed the courtroom with weapons, smashed furniture, and targeted the magistrate’s chambers before Atebubu reinforcements intervened. The Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG) condemned the “disturbing trend” in a December 11 statement by National President Samuel Afotey Otu, demanding the Inspector General of Police (IGP) apprehend perpetrators and Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie shutter the court until safety is assured.

“We further demand that the Inspector General of Police and his team take immediate steps to apprehend the perpetrators… and bring them to face the full rigor of the law,” JUSAG urged.

This follows repeated assaults on local police stations, raising alarms over Ghana’s rule-of-law reputation as Africa’s democratic beacon— a concern for global human rights observers monitoring vigilante justice in emerging democracies.

4. UNICEF-FDA Probe Exposes Toxic Metals in Everyday Ghanaian Products

A stark joint report from UNICEF and Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has uncovered alarming levels of lead, cadmium, and mercury in popular items like cereal mixes, turmeric, and skin creams, posing severe health risks to vulnerable populations.

Testing 1,691 samples, the study found lead exceeding safe limits by over 100 times (up to 11,000 ppm vs. 20 ppm cap) in 78% of unbranded kohl from Upper East and Eastern regions, 42.1% of turmeric in Greater Accra and Central areas, 29% of cadmium-laced Tom Brown cereal mixes, and 24.6% of lead-tainted bentonite clay. Skin-lightening creams also failed miserably. UNICEF health specialist Dr. Emmanuel Kyeremateng-Amoah warned of lead poisoning’s devastating effects, calling for bolstered ministry resources for testing.

The FDA vows arrests for violators and stresses checking expiry dates and packaging. Consumers are advised to shun unbranded goods; for the global African diaspora sourcing heritage remedies, this is a wake-up call on supply chain safety in traditional markets.

5. Ghanaian Influencer Abu Trica Indicted in US for $8M Romance Scam

Snapchat sensation Abu Trica, real name Frederick Kumi, a 31-year-old from Swedru, faces up to 20 years in a US federal indictment for his role in an $8 million romance fraud ring targeting elderly Americans since 2023.

Charged with wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering by the FBI’s Cleveland Division, Trica allegedly used AI-faked personas to build trust via messages and calls, then siphoned funds for sham emergencies, routing proceeds through US accomplices to Ghana.

Ghanaian authorities have arrested him, marking a win for cross-border cyber enforcement led by Divine Selasi Agbeti. Social media erupted with condemnation of his cash-flaunting videos, drawing parallels to Hushpuppi:

“They will commit fraud then start flaunting… for what?” tweeted one person.

Another commented: “Small small, dem go barb all of them 1 by 1.”

Others invoked Proverbs on deceitful gains, lamenting how such displays pressure youth into crime. As Ghana grapples with its digital underbelly, this case spotlights the perils of unchecked online opulence for a global audience tuning into African influencer scandals.

6. President Mahama Lands in Kenya for State Visit, Eyes Jamhuri Day Ties

President John Dramani Mahama arrived in Nairobi on December 12 for an official state visit to Kenya, received with full military honors as Guest of Honour for tomorrow’s Jamhuri Day celebrations marking the republic’s founding. Accompanied by key officials, Mahama will attend a presidential luncheon hosted by President William Ruto before departing on December 13.

While specifics on trade or security agendas remain light, the trip underscores strengthening bilateral bonds amid East-West African diplomacy. For global observers, it’s a timely flex of Ghana’s regional leadership post-election.

7. US Diasporan Battles Greedy Landlord in Ghana Rent Dispute

A US-based Ghanaian returnee, @starringcourtny on TikTok, claims her landlord hiked fees post-payment of $1,532.62 for a 27-day “super safe” apartment stay, invoicing extras because “they could get more.”

“A dollar is a dollar; it doesn’t change for me,” she vented, armed with receipts and cedi conversions.

After escalating to Ghana’s Rent Control Office, a December 22 mediation is set—the landlord cited “complications” for missing the initial slot. Her story is an example of pitfalls for diaspora renters navigating homecoming deals; thorough docs are key, experts say.

Checkout what the print media are reporting also today

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Ghana News

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Honoured as Former and Current Ghanaian Presidents Receive Commemorative Gold Coin

Published

on

Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has been formally presented with a specially minted commemorative gold coin in his honor, alongside three distinguished Ghanaian leaders — former Presidents John Agyekum Kufuor and Nana Akufo-Addo and President John Dramani Mahama.

The high-profile presentation, part of activities tied to the 2021 launch of the Otumfuo Commemorative Gold Coin, recognizes the Asantehene’s immense contributions to peace, national development, and democratic stability in Ghana.

Upon receiving the coin, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II expressed humility, stating that he accepted the honor on behalf of the Asante Kingdom and the entire nation.

Former president Akufo-Addo described the gesture as a fitting tribute to the King’s legacy.

He particularly thanked Otumfuo for his instrumental role in facilitating lasting peace in the Dagbon Traditional Area during his administration.

Former President John Agyekum Kufuor was effusive in his praise, declaring that Otumfuo’s mediation in the Dagbon conflict, alongside two other traditional leaders, was of Nobel Peace Prize standard. Kufuor also credited the Asantehene with playing a pivotal behind-the-scenes role in Ghana’s successful exit from the Highly Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) program, which resulted in the cancellation of approximately $4 billion in external debt.

President John Dramani Mahama also lauded Otumfuo’s statesmanship.

He highlighted the King’s significant contribution to securing Ghana’s 2016 IMF bailout program, which helped stabilize the economy at a critical time. Mahama further described Otumfuo as a consistent voice of wisdom in Ghana’s democratic journey since the Rawlings era, noting that the Asantehene has offered valuable counsel during numerous national crises.

The presentation of the commemorative gold coin underscores the deep respect and influence Otumfuo Osei Tutu II commands across Ghana’s political divide, transcending party lines and generations.

Continue Reading

Ghana News

Macron, Mahama Held Reparations Talks During Ghana Leader’s Paris Visit: French Ambassador Reveals

Published

on

French President Emmanuel Macron and Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama discussed the issue of reparatory justice during the Ghanaian leader’s recent visit to Paris, France’s Ambassador to Ghana has disclosed.

Madam Diarra Dimé-Labille, Ambassador of France to Ghana, revealed the high-level engagement during her first press briefing in Accra, confirming that both leaders expressed willingness to continue dialogue on the matter.

The disclosure comes just weeks after the United Nations General Assembly adopted a landmark resolution on March 25, 2026, spearheaded by Ghana on behalf of the African Union with backing from Caribbean states. The resolution calls for recognition of the transatlantic slave trade as the gravest crime against humanity and encourages efforts toward reparatory justice.

France abstained from the vote, a decision the Ambassador addressed directly.

“President Mahama and President Macron discussed this issue during the Ghanaian leader’s recent visit to Paris,” Madam Dimé-Labille told journalists. “Both sides expressed willingness to continue engagement on the matter.”

The Ambassador stated that France fully recognizes slavery as a crime against humanity within its legal framework – noting that France was the first country to formally adopt such recognition more than two decades ago.

However, she explained that certain legal considerations influenced France’s position on the wording of the resolution, leading to its abstention alongside other European Union member states.

France, she said, supported the broader intent of the resolution but sought a more consensual formulation aligned with established classifications under international law.

“The resolution is not the end, it is the beginning,” Madam Dimé-Labille said, expressing optimism about the way forward.

She indicated that France is prepared to contribute meaningfully to future discussions, including a proposed coalition of states expected to explore practical pathways toward reparatory justice, potentially hosted in Ghana.

Drawing on her background in international law, the Ambassador explained that establishing a clear legal basis for reparations at the global level remains complex. Unlike other historical cases where compensation frameworks were backed by binding international mechanisms, there is currently no specific legal instrument governing reparations for the transatlantic slave trade.

Progress, she said, is therefore likely to be driven by dialogue, cooperation, and political consensus among states – a process in which the Macron-Mahama conversation represents an early but significant step.

Madam Dimé-Labille described the UN resolution’s adoption, with more than 120 countries voting in favour, as an “overwhelming success” and a significant milestone reflecting growing global consensus on addressing historical injustices.

She also broadened the definition of reparatory justice beyond financial compensation, pointing to areas such as reform of global financial systems, debt considerations, education, and historical research as part of the wider conversation.

“Reparation is not only about financial compensation,” she said.

Ghana has taken a leading role in advancing the reparations agenda internationally, positioning itself at the forefront of calls for historical justice and equitable global systems. The Macron-Mahama talks signal that major European powers are prepared to engage with that agenda, even as legal and procedural differences remain.

The Ambassador reiterated France’s broader commitment to addressing historical issues, including ongoing efforts to acknowledge aspects of its past and support the return of African cultural artefacts.

“Continued dialogue and partnership will be essential in shaping a shared understanding of reparatory justice and its implications,” she said.

Continue Reading

Ghana News

Cheddar Declares ‘I Will Be President Sooner Than Later’, Remittances to Ghana Hit Record $7.8bn and Other Big Stories Today

Published

on

We’ve curated the most important stories shaping Ghana today for a global audience. From bold political statements and record gains in non-traditional exports and remittances to government efforts to cut tomato imports, this roundup keeps you informed on key developments across the country—wherever you are in the world.

Cheddar Declares He Will Become President ‘Sooner Than Later’
Nana Kwame Bediako, popularly known as Cheddar and founder of the New Force movement, has confidently declared his ambition to become President of Ghana. Speaking at the Africa Real Estate Festival on April 18, 2026, the 2024 presidential candidate — who placed third with 84,478 votes — told the audience: “I know you all saw me running for president. I probably looked too young, but I’m promising you I will be your president sooner than later.” He added that upon taking office he would extend his vision across African borders to build the continent and its people.
Read the full story here

Government Targets Tomato Import Cuts as Vice-President Courts Major Investment in Spain
Vice-President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has reaffirmed the government’s push to reduce Ghana’s reliance on tomato imports through major agribusiness investments. During a meeting with GB Foods executives in Barcelona, she highlighted plans for technology-driven tomato production and value addition, including 6,000 hectares already secured in the Afram Plains. The partnership aims to boost local yields from the current average of five tonnes per hectare to as much as 60 tonnes using precision irrigation and specialised techniques, while creating jobs and including smallholder farmers.
Read the full story here

Mahama Vows to Keep Inflation in Single Digits After Sharp Decline
President John Dramani Mahama has pledged to maintain inflation in single digits following its sharp drop to 3.2%. Speaking at the University of Development Studies on April 19, 2026, he noted that inflation stood above 24% when his administration took office and credited fiscal discipline, controlled public spending, and prudent management of petroleum prices for the improvement. The President said the government remains committed to keeping inflation below 4% through continued macroeconomic stability measures.
Read the full story here

Ghana’s Top 10 Non-Traditional Exports Skyrocket to $3.28bn
Ghana’s non-traditional exports recorded historic growth in 2025, with the top 10 products generating $3.28 billion, a 53% increase from $2.15 billion in 2024. Cocoa paste led the list at $789.3 million, followed by cocoa butter ($635.7 million) and cashew nuts ($297.6 million), while shea nuts and aluminium products also posted strong gains. The Ghana Export Promotion Authority report shows processed and value-added goods now dominate, accounting for 65.48% of total non-traditional export earnings and signalling successful economic diversification.
Read the full story here

Godfred Dame Alleges Judicial Bias and Warns of Threat to Public Confidence
Former Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame has raised serious concerns about alleged judicial bias, claiming some judges are enabling rights violations against New Patriotic Party (NPP) members through unjustified detentions and denial of bail. Speaking at the Leadership and Law Series on April 19, 2026, he warned that such actions, including prosecutions over public commentary, cast a slur on the judiciary’s integrity and independence, potentially eroding public trust in the justice system.
Read the full story here

NAiMOS Arrests Six Chinese Nationals for Illegal Mining Along Nyaase River
The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAiMOS) has arrested six Chinese nationals for illegal mining activities along the Nyaase River in the Ahafo Ano South-West District of the Ashanti Region. The April 18, 2026 operation recovered firearms, ammunition, vehicles, cash, and mining equipment while destroying excavators and washing platforms. The suspects have been handed over to the Ghana Immigration Service for further action.
Read the full story here

Former Fuel Attendant Exposes Alleged Tactics Used to Cheat Customers
A former fuel station attendant has revealed alleged widespread practices of manipulating dispensers to short-change customers. Emmanuel Eshun claimed supervisors adjusted pumps to show higher prices and covered unit-price displays with Ghana Standards Authority stickers. He directed customers to tampered machines, allowing attendants to pocket significant extra cash — sometimes up to GH¢4,000 per day. He advised drivers always to verify unit prices on main signboards.
Read the full story here

Government to Launch WhatsApp System for Reporting Power Outages
Energy Minister John Abdulai Jinapor has announced plans to introduce a WhatsApp-based system for Ghanaians to report power outages instantly. The new platform will allow users to send their location via message, enabling rapid dispatch of technical teams and bypassing traditional call centres. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to improve communication and service delivery in the electricity sector.
Read the full story here

Remittance Inflows Near $7.8bn in 2025, Surpassing Foreign Direct Investment
Bank of Ghana Governor Dr. Johnson Asiama has revealed that remittance inflows reached nearly $7.8 billion in 2025, up from $4.6 billion in 2024 and now exceeding foreign direct investment. Speaking at a diaspora roundtable in the United States, he described remittances — which account for about 6% of GDP — as a cornerstone of Ghana’s external sector and called for policies to channel more of these funds into productive investments.
Read the full story here

Continue Reading

Trending