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Fante Comedy Picked Up by National Security Over Controversial TikTok Video

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Popular social media personality Fante Comedy has reportedly been picked up by National Security officials for questioning after a viral TikTok video sparked public outrage.

The video, which circulated widely over the weekend, showed the content creator making derogatory remarks about victims of a recent helicopter crash while also issuing verbal threats against National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi, and former President John Dramani Mahama.

According to security sources, Fante Comedy, whose real name has not been disclosed by authorities, was apprehended on Tuesday morning alongside other individuals believed to be linked to the production and distribution of the controversial content.

The arrest follows mounting public calls for action against what many have described as “insensitive and inflammatory” commentary at a time when the nation is mourning victims of the tragic crash. Civil society groups and media watchdogs have condemned the video, urging content creators to exercise restraint and uphold ethical standards when discussing sensitive national matters.

National Security officials have yet to release a formal statement on the matter, but an insider told GhanaMedia.cc that the interrogation will focus on whether the threats made in the video were credible and if they breached Ghana’s laws on public safety, national security, and cyber-related offenses.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Police Service has also been monitoring the case and is expected to coordinate with National Security to determine if further legal action will be taken.

This incident has reignited debates on the responsibility of social media influencers and the need for stricter regulation of online content that could incite violence or public disorder.

As of this report, Fante Comedy remains in custody, with investigations ongoing.

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16 Inmates Escape from Keffi Medium Security Prison, Nasarawa — Manhunt Underway

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Early Tuesday morning, sixteen inmates reportedly escaped from the Keffi Medium Security Prison in Nasarawa State, Nigeria, after overpowering prison security personnel. Authorities have launched an intensive manhunt to recapture the escapees, whose identities have yet to be fully disclosed.

According to eyewitness accounts and official statements, the prisoners took advantage of a momentary lapse in security, attacking guards and forcing open the prison gates to flee. The breakout has raised serious concerns about prison security measures and management protocols in the region.

The Nigerian Correctional Service confirmed the incident and is collaborating with the police and local security agencies to apprehend the fugitives swiftly. They assured the public that increased patrols and checkpoints have been deployed around the facility and surrounding communities to prevent further escapes or criminal activity by the inmates.

The Keffi prison breakout echoes previous security challenges within the Nigerian penal system and has reignited discussions on reforms and investments to improve infrastructure and guard training. Observers urge immediate government action to bolster safety and restore public confidence.

Though the escape occurred in Nasarawa, Ghanaian security agencies have reportedly been alerted to heighten border vigilance, fearing cross-border movement of the fugitives. The Ghana Prisons Service and security agencies are on alert and coordinating with their Nigerian counterparts to prevent any security breaches.

Local communities near border towns are advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to the police. The Ministry of Interior in Ghana has reassured citizens that all necessary measures are being taken to safeguard national security.

The investigation into the circumstances that led to the escape is ongoing. More details will be provided as authorities release updates.

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Lending Rates Set to Drop as Ghana Cuts Reference Rate Sharply

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Consumers and businesses in Ghana can expect noticeable relief in borrowing costs following a sharp cut in the Ghana Reference Rate (GRR). On August 6, 2025, the Ghana Association of Banks confirmed that the GRR had fallen from 23.69% in June to 19.67% in August — representing a 10.05 percentage point decrease. 

Simultaneously, the Bank of Ghana implemented a historic 300-basis-point cut in its Monetary Policy Rate — reducing it to 25% — marking the largest reduction in the central bank’s history. This move reflects a cooling inflation rate, now at 13.7%, and an improving macroeconomic outlook. 

John Awuah, CEO of the Ghana Association of Banks, pledged that borrowers with variable-rate loans will benefit almost immediately, while new loan agreements will be written at the lower rate. “If you have a loan linked to the Ghana Reference Rate, then you should expect your loan to go down by that margin,” he stated. 

Economists and industry watchers see this as a positive step toward economic revival, encouraging business expansion and easing access to credit—especially for SMEs that have long struggled with high interest rates. 

Banking Sector Anticipates Reduction in Lending Rates Following GRA Adjustment

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The Ghana Association of Banks (GAB) says consumers and businesses should expect a drop in lending rates in the coming weeks following the Ghana Reference Rate’s (GRR) recent downward adjustment. GAB CEO John Awuah confirmed that the recalibration, driven by improved macroeconomic indicators and a gradual reduction in inflation, will translate into lower borrowing costs.

Speaking on Accra-based radio, Awuah explained that banks are required to price new loans based on the GRR, making the adjustment a direct benefit to borrowers. “This is good news for businesses looking to expand and for individuals needing credit facilities,” he noted. The change is expected to stimulate private-sector growth by making capital more accessible, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Economic analysts welcomed the development but urged caution, pointing out that while lending rates may decrease, other factors — such as banks’ risk assessments, collateral requirements, and operational costs — still influence final interest rates charged to customers.

The Bank of Ghana’s latest Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) report indicated that inflationary pressures are easing, supported by a stable cedi and increased foreign exchange reserves. This environment, coupled with fiscal consolidation efforts, has allowed the central bank to maintain a more accommodative stance on credit.

Consumer advocacy groups are calling on banks to implement the rate reductions transparently and to avoid hidden charges that could erode the intended benefits. If sustained, the new lending environment could boost household consumption and spur investments across key sectors, adding momentum to Ghana’s post-pandemic economic recovery.

Ghana Premier League Announces Historic ₵2 Million Prize for 2025/26 Season Champions

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The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has announced a record-breaking prize package for the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season, with the winning club set to receive ₵2 million — the largest cash reward in the competition’s history. This marks a significant jump from the ₵500,000 awarded last season, reflecting the GFA’s renewed commitment to elevating local football’s competitiveness and professionalism.

GFA President Kurt Okraku said the financial boost is aimed at incentivising clubs to invest in player development, infrastructure, and welfare. “We want our clubs to match international standards, and this is one of the steps toward achieving that,” he stated at the press briefing in Accra. The runner-up and third-place finishers are also expected to see increased rewards, though details are yet to be finalised.

Sponsorship deals have played a key role in this cash injection. The GFA confirmed new multi-year partnerships with corporate entities eager to associate with the country’s most-followed sporting league. Industry analysts note that improved prize packages could also slow the trend of player migration to other African leagues by making domestic football more financially sustainable.

The announcement has been met with excitement from players, club owners, and fans, many of whom took to social media to celebrate what they see as a turning point for the Ghanaian game. However, some stakeholders cautioned that the increased prize money must be matched with better officiating, pitch conditions, and marketing to fully revitalise the league’s brand. The 2025/26 season kicks off in September, with reigning champions Medeama SC set to defend their title amid intensified competition.

Communications Ministry Announces Draft of 15 Broadcasting Laws to Guide Media Reform

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Ghana’s Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations this week disclosed that it is drafting 15 pieces of legislation aimed at modernising broadcasting and media regulation. Minister Samuel Nartey George said the proposed laws will institutionalise media ethics, strengthen digital governance, and create clearer legal frameworks for broadcast licensing and content standards. Officials say the package seeks to align Ghana’s regulatory environment with evolving digital and social-media realities. 

According to ministry briefings, the proposals draw inspiration from existing journalistic codes — including the Ghana Journalists Association code of ethics — but will convert voluntary standards into statutory obligations where necessary. The minister emphasised the need to balance press freedom with accountability, indicating some measures will target misinformation, unregulated political advertising, and abusive content on digital platforms. Civil society organisations and media houses have been invited to contribute views during the consultation phase. 

Observers warned that while modern regulation is needed, any legislative package must protect independent journalism and avoid provisions that could be used to silence dissent. Media stakeholders signalled readiness to engage but stressed transparency, stakeholder consultation, and human-rights safeguards are essential. Parliament will ultimately decide the fate of the bills after public hearings; the ministry hopes to table the first set before year-end, though exact timetables remain tentative. 

Soldier Among Seven Remanded Over GH¢769,500 Diesel Tanker Robbery

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Seven people, including a soldier, have been remanded into police custody for their alleged role in the armed robbery of a fuel tanker carrying 54,000 litres of diesel worth GH¢769,500.

According to police reports, the incident occurred on August 6, when the suspects allegedly followed a DAF fuel tanker with registration number GT-2493-20 from Tema to Kumasi. The tanker was intercepted at gunpoint at Pampaso Number 1 in the Eastern Region.

The suspects allegedly redirected the tanker to the Pacific Fuel Station at Bunso Junction, where the fuel was transferred into an empty tanker. Meanwhile, the driver and his mate were taken away in a green pickup truck with registration number GX 2881-22.

The soldier, identified as Corporal Bortey Bernard, was later arrested at a police checkpoint in Ablekuma Borkorborkor after the victims raised the alarm. Subsequent investigations led to the arrest of five more suspects, while four others remain at large.

Police say efforts are underway to track down the remaining suspects and recover the stolen fuel.

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U.S. Security Experts Recommend Careful Investigation into Helicopter Crash in Ghana

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Two experienced U.S. law enforcement officers have shared their professional insights on the recent helicopter crash in Ghana, urging calm and patience as investigations continue. Their views were shared by former Minister of Education, Spio-Garbrah, in a detailed Facebook post.

According to Spio-Garbrah, one of the officers is a retired New York City police officer, while the other is an active federal agent. Both stressed the need for a meticulous and methodical forensic examination to ensure the truth is uncovered.

Thorough Forensic Work Needed

The experts highlighted that investigating burnt remains can be challenging, especially when trying to detect signs of toxic substances, ballistic impacts, or other foreign materials. They advised that every necessary tool should be made available to Ghana’s forensic team to complete a full autopsy and analysis.

They cautioned against rushing the process, explaining that detailed examinations—both on the victims and the wreckage—could reveal whether there were unusual injuries inconsistent with a typical crash, and help determine if any external factors were involved.

Exploring All Possibilities

While it is too early to make conclusions, the U.S. officers noted that the possibility of foul play should not be ignored. Witnesses reported the helicopter flying unusually low before impact, which could indicate mechanical issues, sudden pilot incapacitation, or another emergency.

They also advised that any available CCTV footage from the crash vicinity be reviewed, and that flight recordings or a “black box,” if available, could be crucial to the investigation.

A Call for Patience and Trust in the Process

Both officers emphasized that Ghana’s investigators should take the time needed to work carefully, preserve evidence properly, and avoid public pressure to deliver quick answers. Spio-Garbrah echoed their sentiments, reminding Ghanaians that patience and thoroughness are key to finding the truth.

“This is a time for unity, trust, and professionalism,” his post concluded. “With careful forensic work, we will understand what happened and give closure to the families of the brave men who were lost.”

DRIP Coordinator Reveals Samuel Aboagye Had Originally Planned a Trip Abroad, Not to Obuasi

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In an emotional revelation, Nii Lante Vanderpuye, National Coordinator of Ghana’s District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), shared that Samuel Aboagye, Acting Deputy Director-General of Operations at NADMO and former NDC parliamentary candidate for Obuasi East, intended to travel to the United States—where his wife and child reside—rather than Obuasi, where the tragic helicopter crash occurred.

According to Vanderpuye, the two had confirmed travel plans “over the weekend” prior to the accident. Aboagye was said to be enthusiastic about the journey, including sending parcels for his young daughter. Vanderpuye, who referred to Aboagye affectionately as “a son,” expressed shock and disbelief over the sudden loss of someone he described as a “promising young man.” 

Tragically, Aboagye was among the eight victims who perished in the helicopter crash while on official duty—a devastating blow that reverberated across government and public sectors. 

This disclosure offers a poignant glimpse into Aboagye’s personal life, revealing a moment of joy abruptly cut short by calamity. It underscores the human stories behind headlines and reminds the public of the individuals lost in the crash: not only officials, but family members with dreams, responsibilities, and loved ones awaiting their return.

As investigations into the cause of the crash continue, Vanderpuye’s heartfelt account adds a personal dimension to the tragedy, encouraging reflection on how sudden, irreplaceable loss affects families, communities—and the country as a whole.

Renowned Broadcaster Captain Smart Suggests Bird Strike Caused Obuasi Helicopter Crash

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In a recent broadcast that has stirred national attention, well-known media personality Captain Smart posited that a bird strike may have caused the tragic helicopter crash near Obuasi on August 6, 2025. The crash claimed the lives of eight occupants, including several high-profile government officials.

Speaking on his popular platform, Captain Smart explained that preliminary aviation assessments and eyewitness reports often show bird collisions as a significant factor in aircraft accidents. While official investigations are ongoing, he emphasized the likelihood that a bird strike could have led to engine failure or critical system malfunction aboard the helicopter.

“Bird strikes are not uncommon, and they can cause sudden, catastrophic damage to aircraft engines,” Captain Smart noted. “If this is confirmed, it would highlight the urgent need for enhanced bird hazard management near flight paths, especially in areas like Obuasi where wildlife and aviation routes intersect.”

Official Investigation Still Underway

The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the military’s accident investigation unit have yet to release a definitive cause for the crash. Authorities have urged the public to await the official report before drawing conclusions.

In the meantime, the country mourns the loss of the Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and six other passengers on board. The tragedy has sparked calls for improved aviation safety measures and wildlife hazard mitigation across Ghana’s airspaces.

Expert Voices Call for Caution

Aviation experts have echoed the importance of careful investigation, explaining that bird strikes, while serious, are one of several potential causes of helicopter crashes. Weather conditions, mechanical failure, and pilot error are also thoroughly examined in such inquiries.

Captain Smart’s comments have fueled public discussion on social media, with many expressing a mix of concern, curiosity, and calls for transparency from the authorities.

As Ghana awaits the final findings, the tragic crash serves as a somber reminder of the complex challenges facing aviation safety and the critical importance of addressing all possible risk factors—including those posed by nature.

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