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Feteh Kakraba ‘Sub-Chief’ wanted for leading car stealing syndicate 

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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Court

The Ghana Police Service is in hot pursuit of Gideon Baah, an alleged sub-chief of Feteh Kakraba, who is suspected to be at the center of a car theft ring, operating in the Greater Accra Region.

Baah, also known as “Nana,” is believed to have fled his residence at Millennium City in Kasoa, after police attempted to arrest him in connection with a series of fraudulent car rental transactions.

Baah and his alleged accomplice, Nana Anderson – who goes by several aliases, including Anderson Nana Abeka, Essel Kofi Elvis, Willson Kojo Bismark and Djan Ohene Bismark – allegedly used forged documents to rent cars under false pretences before disappearing with the vehicles.

Anderson, a 37 year old unemployed man without a permanent address, was arrested on April 5, 2025 at Atasemanso, Kumasi, following police intelligence.

He has since been put before the Circuit Court in Accra on charges of forgery of documents, abetment of crime, stealing and dishonestly receiving.

Anderson pleaded not guilty before the presiding Judge, Samuel Bright Acquah, who sat in for Jojo Amoah Hagan.

The court granted Anderson bail of GH¢200,000 with two sureties, one of whom must be justified. He is to report to the police every Wednesday at 10:00 am.

The case has been adjourned to April 23, 2025.

According to the Prosecutor, Chief Inspector Dzibordi Nego, Anderson used forged ECOWAS identity cards and driver’s licenses – bearing different names, but the same photo – to rent vehicles from unsuspecting car owners and agents.

On March 25, 2025 Anderson allegedly contacted a car rental partner of businessman Richard Gyamfi Asamoah and posed as a customer.

He rented a Hyundai Elantra with registration number GT 114-25, valued at GH¢156,000, and failed to return it.

The court was told that he immediately handed the car over to Gideon Baah at McCarthy Hills for GH¢4,000.Since the accused failed to return the car on the third day as promised, concerns were raised – particularly after it was discovered that the vehicle’s tracking device had been disabled at Dansoman.

Based on these suspicions, the complainant and the witness filed a report with the Sakumono Police. The witness had also managed to capture a photograph of Anderson during the rental transaction, which later aided the police in their investigation.

Investigations further revealed that the duo used the same scheme to steal a Kia Forte at Haatso, a Honda Civic at Amasaman, and a Kia Ultima at Spintex between January and March 2025.

Anderson, in his caution statement, admitted to the crimes and claimed Baah provided him with housing in exchange for his role in the operations.

Although police followed leads to Baah’s Millennium City residence, he was not found.

The court was further told that Baah remains at large and is being sought to face charges including forgery, abetment of stealing, and dishonestly receiving stolen property.

Farmer facing trial Over Possession of Stolen Taxi

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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Accra Circuit Court

A 64-year-old farmer, Francis Agbenyegah, has appeared before the Circuit Court II, in Accra, for allegedly possessing a stolen taxi cab linked to a violent robbery incident. He pleaded not guilty to the charge of possessing stolen property.

The accused was initially remanded on April 3, 2025 and was scheduled to reappear on April 10, 2025. On that date, he was granted bail in the sum of GH¢90,000 with two sureties, one of whom he was required to justify with landed property.

The presiding judge, Her Honour Basilia Adjei, ordered Agbenyegah to deposit all his travel documents, including his valid passport and to report to the police investigator every Thursday.

However, on April 17, 2025 the accused returned to court seeking a variation of the bail conditions, stating his inability to meet the original requirements.

The court reviewed the conditions, maintaining the requirement to deposit travel documents, but adjusting the surety demands. The case has since been adjourned to May 5, 2025, for continuation.

Brief

According to the facts presented by the prosecution, led by Inspector Abigail Offeibea, the complainant, Derrick Osei Boateng, a driver residing in Tema Community 2, was attacked in the early hours of March 23, 2025.

This attack was after the taxi driver had picked up two male passengers from the Community 18 Junction area who requested to be dropped at Shalom Spot near Lashibi Community 19 Annex.

Upon arrival, one of the suspects pretended to alight to collect money. In a coordinated move, the other strangled the complainant with a rope while the first suspect rejoined and stabbed him in the shoulder.

The attackers beat Boateng until he lost consciousness, drove the car to a nearby lagoon in Community 19, and dumped him in the water, leaving him for dead.

The suspects fled with the victim’s Toyota Vitz taxi (GT 5883-24), cash amounting to GH¢2,000, a Nokia phone valued at GH¢900, a driver’s license and a Ghana Card.

At about 5:00 a.m., Boateng regained consciousness and made his way to the nearest police station, clad only in boxer shorts and covered in mud.

Investigations led to the recovery of the car, which had a GPS tracker, at Alesikpe, near Sogakope. The car’s number plate, dashboard and part of the roof had been removed.

On Agbenyegah’s compound, police also found an Opel Astra with a duplicate number plate believed to have been used in transporting the stolen vehicle.

Agbenyegah was arrested and admitted ownership of the premises where the stolen taxi was found. He is currently the only one facing the law as the two other accused persons remain at large.Police say investigations are ongoing.

Cut the Cord: The Hidden Health Benefits of A Digital Detox

By
admin
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Wisdom Klu, the writer

Screens have become ever-present companions-guiding our mornings, occupying our days, and lingering into our nights. From smartphones and laptops to tablets and smart TVs, we are perpetually connected, constantly checking emails, scrolling through social media, watching videos, and responding to notifications. This relentless connectivity blurs the boundaries between work and personal life.

It makes it challenging to distinguish relaxation from obligation. While digital devices have revolutionized communication, learning, and productivity, they have also introduced challenges like psychological strain, social isolation, and physical fatigue. What began as a convenience has subtly transformed into a compulsion, prompting many to seek relief through practices like digital detoxes.

Data from Statista (2024) indicates that the average global internet user spends almost seven hours online each day. This surpasses the healthy usage guidelines set by experts. This high level of digital engagement is not limited to work or educational tasks.it encompasses entertainment, social interactions, and casual browsing. According to psychologist Dr. Larry Rosen, co-author of “The Distracted Mind: Ancient Brains in a High-Tech World,” our brains were not designed to handle the constant stimulation that modern technology demands. He describes “techno-stress,” a state characterized by increased anxiety, diminished attention spans, and challenges in engaging in deep, focused thought. It is no wonder that many of us feel persistently fatigued, even when we are not physically active.

The Need for a Digital Detox

A digital detox involves intentionally reducing or eliminating screen time for a specified period to regain mental clarity and emotional balance. This could be a weekend or even a month, depending on what individuals require. Findings from a 2022 study published in Cyber psychology, Behaviour, and Social Networking show that even short digital breaks lead to significant improvements in mood, mental clarity, sleep quality, and overall life satisfaction. These results highlight the considerable psychological advantages of unplugging. They indicate that regular downtime is essential for our brains and emotions to process experiences and manage stress effectively.

The American Psychological Association (APA) consistently underscores the harmful impacts of screen addiction. They reveal that persistent digital engagement contributes to cognitive fatigue, emotional instability, and social detachment. An APA survey found that nearly 50% of U.S. adults feel overwhelmed by the constant influx of digital information. Social media significantly contributes to this overload, fostering unrealistic comparisons, fear of missing out (FOMO), and an unhealthy desire for validation through likes and comments. Thus, a digital detox can act as a vital reset, helping individuals restore balance and presence in their lives.

 Physical Toll of Constant Connectivity

The consequences of excessive screen time extend beyond the mental sphere to physical health as well. Extensive screen use has been linked to various health problems, including digital eye strain, headaches, poor posture, and obesity due to inactivity. According to the Vision Council, over 60% of Americans report experiencing symptoms of digital eye strain, such as dryness, blurred vision, and discomfort. These issues are especially prevalent among those who spend long hours working in front of screens without breaks.

Moreover, improper ergonomics during device use have resulted in widespread cases of “text neck,” a term for chronic neck pain and stiffness caused by frequently viewing down at a device. This can lead to long-term spine issues and muscle tension. Additionally, the blue light emitted by screens hampers melatonin production, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep, negatively impacting sleep quality and duration. The National Sleep Foundation recommends powering down electronic devices at least 30–60 minutes before bedtime to help the brain naturally prepare for restful sleep. Ignoring these recommendations can cause insomnia, frequent awakenings, and daytime tiredness.

Unplugging to Reconnect

Choosing to unplug doesn’t mean abandoning technology completely. Rather, it’s about reassessing our relationship with it and using it purposefully. By establishing boundaries, we can avoid falling into the pitfalls of persistent distraction and mindless consumption. One helpful strategy is to set specific times of the day as “screen-free zones,” which could include morning routines, family meals, or the hour before bedtime. Implementing physical boundaries-such as keeping devices out of bedrooms or disabling notifications during focus periods-can greatly minimize digital interruptions.

Tools like Digital Wellbeing (for Android) and Screen Time (for iOS) can assist users in tracking device usage and setting limits for certain apps, promoting greater mindfulness regarding their habits. Additionally, engaging in offline activities, such as journaling, reading, walking, or pursuing creative hobbies, can help re-engage the senses and reconnect with the world around us. Some families and organizations have adopted a “tech Sabbath”-a specific day each week to unplug as a community. A 2023 Deloitte report indicated that those who embraced partial or full digital detox practices felt more focused, socially engaged, and satisfied with their lives.

 A Thoughtful Reset

The true strength of unplugging lies in its ability to restore the clarity, tranquillity, and authentic human connections that relentless connectivity has eroded. It provides an opportunity to step back, reassess priorities, and live more purposefully and mindfully. In his book “Digital Minimalism: Choosing a Focused Life in a Noisy World,” author Cal Newport argues that the solution to digital overwhelm is not the total rejection of technology, but rather a conscious and selective use of it to enhance our lives, rather than dominate them. By being intentional about our screen time, we can foster deeper relationships, better health, and enhanced productivity.

In a landscape that perpetually clamours for our attention through digital channels, the act of disconnecting is both radical and essential. Although a digital detox may appear to be a minor step, it possesses the potential to fundamentally transform our experiences, thoughts, and connections-with ourselves and others.

By Wisdom Koudjo Klu

 

Editorial: Government Must Tackle Housing Deficit

By
THE CHRONICLE
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0
Editorial

According to myjoyonline report, Minister for Works, Housing and Water Resources, Gilbert Adjei, has urged real estate developers to strengthen public-private partnerships. Speaking at the unveiling of VAAL Real Estate, Ghana’s latest high-rise project (Agora project), Mr Adjei underscored the government’s commitment to fostering an environment conducive to the growth of the real estate sector.

The Minister reiterated that the government is fully committed to providing conducive environment for the real estate sector to flourish. “We understand the importance of partnership in addressing the housing deficit, and we are here to ensure that the regulatory and financial frameworks support these ventures. The housing deficit in Ghana has become a pressing issue, with urbanisation and population growth placing increasing pressure on available housing stock,” he stated.

To bridge this gap, he said the government is encouraging greater involvement from the private sector, providing incentives, facilitating land access and ensuring smoother regulatory processes. The Agora project, designed to blend modern living with sustainability, reflects the possibilities of such partnerships. It promises to offer contemporary housing solutions, with a focus on luxury and affordability, setting a new standard in Ghana’s real estate industry.

We are currently facing an increasingly dire housing crisis. With a national housing deficit estimated at over 1.8 million units, access to decent, safe and affordable homes remain out of reach for many citizens. The country’s rapid urbanisation, rising population and limited public sector capacity to address the growing demand for housing have compounded the situation.

As the need for sustainable solutions becomes ever more urgent, it is refreshing and commendable that the Minister for Works, Housing and Water Resources has taken a bold stance in urging real estate developers to strengthen public-private partnerships (PPPs) to address this national challenge.

The Minister’s call for stronger collaboration between the state and private developers is both timely and necessary. Ghana’s housing problem is too large, too complex, and too urgent to be tackled by government efforts alone. It requires a multi-stakeholder approach, with the private sector playing a central role in design, financing, and delivery supported by a regulatory framework that is responsive, transparent, and efficient.

Public-private partnerships offer a strategic pathway to unlocking the full potential of Ghana’s housing sector. Globally, PPPs have proven effective in mobilizing resources, fostering innovation, and accelerating the delivery of public goods.

In countries like Kenya, India, and Morocco, such partnerships have successfully produced thousands of housing units by leveraging private capital and technical expertise while maintaining government oversight to ensure affordability and quality. Ghana can and must learn from these examples.

The reality is that successive governments have not been able to keep pace with the increasing demand for housing. Budgetary constraints, and land tenure complications have slowed down state-led housing projects. In contrast, private developers have the financial flexibility and operational efficiency to deliver projects more quickly and at scale provided the environment is enabling. Therefore, the Minister’s assurance that government will ease regulatory bottlenecks, facilitate land access, and offer incentives is not just welcome; it is critical.

However, this commitment must be more than rhetoric. If Ghana is to truly benefit from the PPP model, the government must ensure that its promises are backed by concrete reforms. Land acquisition processes must be streamlined, mortgage financing must be made more accessible especially to first-time homebuyers and low-to-middle-income earners – and tax incentives should be introduced for developers who allocate a portion of their projects to affordable housing.

The Agora project, while primarily a luxury development, illustrates what is possible when the private sector is allowed to innovate within a supportive policy framework. The project’s emphasis on sustainability and modern living can serve as a model for future developments particularly if such innovation can be extended to affordable and middle-income housing.

As Minister Adjei rightly pointed out, the government has a responsibility to foster an environment that supports the private sector in playing a more active role in housing delivery. But the private sector, too, must rise to the occasion.

Developers should resist the urge to focus solely on high-end properties and instead commit to inclusive development. Affordable housing should not be seen as a charitable endeavor but as a profitable and socially impactful business opportunity.

The call made by the Minister must now be followed by deliberate policy actions, bold investments, and sustained collaboration. Housing is not just a political issue – it is a moral one. And if we get this right, the benefits will echo far beyond rooftops and walls. They will shape the very foundation of a more equitable, prosperous Ghana.

GFGF trains youth to repair broken down water systems

By
KWESI ALFRED ADAMS
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A staff of GFGF presenting certificate to one of the trainees

Demonstrating its commitment to sustainable community development, Gold Fields Ghana Foundation (GFGF), has trained some of the youth in the host communities to maintain and repair boreholes, helping to ensure consistent access to clean water.
The three-day training program equipped participants with practical skills to address borehole malfunctions, reducing the community’s reliance on external support and ensuring a quicker response to water supply issues.

Some of the trained mechanics

Speaking to the media during the closing ceremony, Madam Linda Deedoo, Western Regional Extension and Commercial Manager, under the Community Water and Sanitation Agency, praised the initiative. She noted that the training would relieve Gold Fields Ghana Foundation of the frequent responsibility of responding to borehole breakdowns.
“This program will help ease the burden on Gold Fields Ghana Foundation,” she said, adding “Now that we have trained individuals within the communities, borehole repairs can be handled locally and promptly.”

Tarkwa Municipal Water and Sanitation Officer, Osofo Michael Kojo, also highlighted the importance of the initiative.

Buildings being demolished at the site

He stated that the Municipal Assembly lacked the capacity to repair broken boreholes, making the Foundation’s efforts critical.
“We will not be able to attend to broken-down boreholes in the communities. That is why the action taken by Gold Fields Ghana Foundation is not only timely, but commendable. They have shown great leadership in addressing the water challenges.”
The training was met with enthusiasm from participants, many of whom expressed excitement about the skills they had acquired.

These newly trained mechanics are now positioned to act as first responders whenever borehole issues arise, helping to sustain the community’s water infrastructure.

8 out of 14 MMDCEs confirmed in Western Region

By
KWESI ALFRED ADAMS
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Frederick Faustinos Faiddo, Mayor of STMA

So far, no nominee has been rejected by the elected Assembly members and government appointees in the Western Region.

Abdul Majeed Dorkurgu, MCE for Effia Kwesiminrsim

In Wassa East for instance, the nominee, Ibrahim Alhassan, secured 100% endorsement from both the government appointees and the elected Assembly Members.

In Shama Municipality, Paul Otiz Dentu secured 23 out of 25 votes to pass the threshold to be confirmed as MCE.
In Sekondi Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly, Lawyer Fredrick Faidoo, the NDC Parliamentary Candidate for the 2024 election, secured 41 out of 52 votes cast to be confirmed as Mayor of the STMA.
Abdul Majeed Dokurgu was also confirmed as Effia Kwesimintsim Municipal chief executive, with Joseph Agyekum receiving the nod in the Ellembelle District.

Dr. Matthew Ayeh, MCE for Prestea Hunni-Valley

Herbert Kuah Dickson of Nzema East received 100% endorsement and in Wassa Amenfi West, Priscilla Yorke, the constituency Women’s Organiser was confirmed with 20 out of 28 votes cast.
Dr. Matthew Aryee also received 100% endorsement from both the government appointees and the elected Assembly Members to be confirmed as Prestea Hunni-Valey MCE.
Meanwhile, Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, expressed satisfaction with the confirmation process, saying “The three-day exercise has been very successful. We have six districts left and I believe the trend will continue.

“By next couple of weeks, we should complete the rest. With all MMDCEs in place, the region will be ready to kick-start development”.

Priscilla Yorke, MCE for Amenfi East

He commended assembly members across the eight Districts for their support and cooperation in electing Presiding Members and confirming nominees, saying they have put aside differences and focused on development, which is commendable.”
Western Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Nana Kojo Toku, stated in an interview that “So far, all is well. The people are poised to support His Excellency, President John Dramani Mahama, in resetting Ghana and implementing the 24-hour economy.”

Plateau Killings: Christians Stage Peace Walk To Honour Victims

By
admin
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Church on the plateau stage peace walk

Amid renewed attacks and mounting death tolls, the Christians in Plateau State on Monday staged a peace walk in protest against the incessant killings ravaging communities in the state.

The peace walk, under the joint leadership of the Church Denominational Leaders Forum and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Plateau State chapter, was also a tribute to the victims and a cry for justice.

The participants—men, women, the elderly, and youths—marched through the streets to register their anguish and frustration over the rising insecurity in the north central region.

The procession covered by Channels Television showed a crowd of concerned residents with banners calling for peace and action.

The inscriptions on some of the banner read, “That they die not in vain. Stop the killings. Stop the bloodshed. Every life matters; let Plateau live.”

According to the organisers, the protest was a direct response to the continuous and bloody assaults on Plateau communities, especially those killed in recent attacks on Ruwi, Hurti, and Zikke in Bokkos and Bassa local government areas.

“Their death should not be in vain,” a church leader said during the march.

Plateau and neighbouring Benue State have been gripped by a fresh wave of violence in recent weeks, largely blamed on bandits.

The April 2025 attacks in Bokkos and Bassa claimed over 100 lives, marking one of the deadliest incidents since the Christmas Eve massacre in 2023, which left about 150 people dead in Bokkos alone.

Describing the killings as genocidal, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, said the invaders, armed with sophisticated weapons, displaced residents and took over more than 60 communities. He emphasised the need for urgent federal intervention to halt the land-grabbing and wanton bloodshed.

Credit: channelstv.com

Rivers Crisis: Coalition backs call to sack Sole Administrator 

By
admin
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Rivers State Sole Administrator, Ibok-ete Ibas

A coalition of civil society groups under the aegis of Civic Room for Rule of Law, has thrown its weight behind the call for the immediate removal of the Rivers State’s Sole Administrator, Ibok-ete Ibas.

DAILY POST reports that Ibas’ alleged excesses, particularly the sacking of Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s appointees, has continued to trigger anger across the country.

Femi Falana, a human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria on Thursday called on the Nigerian government to immediately remove Ibas, citing a breach of constitutional procedure.

Falana was reacting particularly to the appointments and removal of some government officials by the Sole administrator.

The lawyer also referenced the official Federal Government Gazette previously released by President Tinubu, which outlined the terms governing the operations of the Sole Administrator.

According to the document, President Tinubu stated that Ibas can only operate on the basis of “regulations that may, from time to time be issued” by him.

Citing some recent activities of the Sole administrator, the coalition in a statement issued on Tuesday by its president, Maxwell Egboh, claimed that Ibas disregarded the rule of law and breached the presidential orders.

The coalition expressed concern over the implications of the Sole administrator’s actions of removing government officials without presidential order. The coalition lauded the Ad-Hoc Committee of the House of Representatives on Rivers State for summoning the Sole administrator, urging the green chamber to thoroughly investigate his actions.

Credit: dailypost.ng

Government committed to fighting insecurity in Benue –Nuhu Ribadu

By
admin
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National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu

The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Government to tackling insecurity in Benue and other parts of the country.

He also acknowledged the efforts of the Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, in addressing insecurity but warned against individuals exploiting the situation for personal gain.

Ribadu stated this on Tuesday during a chat with journalists at the Government House in Makurdi .

He was in Benue over the spiraling insecurity that have claimed over 120 lives.

“We are fully committed to supporting the Governor in tackling insecurity and will continue to stand with him to defeat this menace,” Ribadu said.

He also conveyed the President’s firm resolve to bring an end to insecurity, saying, “The President has directed me to reaffirm his determination to eliminate this threat.”

The Ribadu’s assertions came amid rising concerns over security challenges in Benue and other states in the North Central region.

He urged cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure lasting stability.

Ribadu was received at the Government House in Makurdi by Governor Hyacinth Alia, Mmembers of the National Assembly and other top government functionaries.

Credit: dailypost.ng

‘Prioritise Growth for Macroeconomics Stability’

By
admin
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Dr Ato Forson, Minister for Finance

Jibran Qureishi, Head of Africa Research at Standard Bank Group, the parent company of Stanbic Bank, has advised government to prioritize reviving growth, and restoring macroeconomic stability in its Reset Agenda.

Speaking at the Stanbic Economic Series webinar themed ‘The Economy under a New Era’, Mr. Qureishi indicated that this could only be attained with careful fiscal management.

According to him “It is critical to ensure that the reset of the economy revives underlying growth, keeps it inclusive, and, more importantly, restores macroeconomic stability.

“However, this requires consistent fiscal adjustment and retraining multilateral concessional financing. Without these, Ghana could face debt sustainability challenges sooner than anticipated.”

Mr. Qureishi’s remarks come after the 2025 Budget presentation by Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson, which outlined plans to abolish certain taxes to ease the burden on the private sector. While commending this move, Mr. Qureishi cautioned against derailing fiscal consolidation efforts.

“The government must strike a delicate balance between supporting the private sector and maintaining fiscal discipline. It is essential to keep the IMF at home and remain in their good books, as they serve as an anchor for fiscal consolidation. At the same time, the business environment has become challenging, and abolishing taxes that weigh down the private sector is a step in the right direction,” he stated.

Mr. Qureishi highlighted the importance of the IMF’s role, especially as Ghana faces significant debt maturities extending into 2027 and 2028. “We have massive maturities ahead, and the IMF’s support will be crucial during this period.

“However, the government must also address the concerns of the private sector to stimulate economic activity and drive growth,” he added.

He further stressed that the private sector remains the backbone of Ghana’s economy. “Creating conducive environment for businesses to thrive is essential for sustainable growth.

“While fiscal prudence is non-negotiable, the government must also take bold steps to reduce the tax burden on businesses and encourage investment,” he noted.

GNA

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