A special police task force targeting illegal mining has seized four excavators and arrested nine individuals in a coordinated operation at Akani, near Asankragua in the Western Region.
Two of the excavators were intercepted while being transported on low-bed trucks under the escort of armed men suspected to be military personnel. The seizure followed credible intelligence about the suspicious movement of heavy-duty mining equipment outside the Samreboï Township.
According to ACP Eric Asiedu, Director of Special Operations at the Police Headquarters, the team acted swiftly on the tip-off. Under the command of ASP Mr. Adorye, officers tracked the machinery to a designated location and halted the convoy, successfully impounding the vehicles.
Earlier, the team had raided a large illegal mining site at Akani, where the arrests were made and additional mining equipment was seized. The operation marks a significant step in the ongoing national efforts to clamp down on galamsey (illegal mining) activities that continue to threaten Ghana’s environment and natural resources.
Police say all seized equipment is now in secure custody. The operation aligns with the Inspector-General of Police’s broader strategy to intensify enforcement actions against illegal mining across the country.
The University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), has condemned the behaviour of a staff member involved in a widely shared social media video showing an altercation with a Level 100 female student.
The incident, which occurred on campus, involved a member of the university’s Dress Code Compliance Team and has attracted significant public attention.
In a statement issued on Thursday, July 3, the university confirmed that the footage had come to its attention and that an investigation was immediately launched to establish the facts.
“The University wishes to emphasise unequivocally that the behaviour of the staff was unacceptable and condemns it outright,” the statement read.
“As a professional university whose core values are integrity, respect, and service, UPSA holds the dignity and well-being of every student as paramount and reaffirms that no staff member has the right to mistreat any student under any circumstances.”
Following the internal investigation, the Vice-Chancellor personally issued an apology to the student involved, reaffirming the University’s commitment to maintaining a respectful and professional environment for all.
Additionally, the staff member at the centre of the incident submitted a written apology to the student, acknowledging the inappropriateness of the behaviour.
In response, the student also wrote to the University Management, expressing regret for her own conduct during the incident.
UPSA Management announced that it is reviewing its current Dress Code enforcement procedures to ensure they align with the institution’s values and prevent future incidents.
“Management is reviewing the Dress Code enforcement protocols to ensure that engagements between staff and students reflect the university’s core values of integrity, respect, and service,” the statement continued.
“Additional training will be provided to the Dress Code Compliance Team to reinforce appropriate conduct while performing their duties.”
The university defended its longstanding dress code policy, stating that it plays a vital role in preparing students for professional environments.
“This policy, which is clearly outlined in the Student Handbook, is not arbitrary or subjective but is designed to instil in students the corporate culture and values expected in professional environments. Every student signs up for the dress code policy.”
The university noted that its culture of professionalism has helped shape many of its alumni who now serve in key roles across various sectors in Ghana.
While the university reiterated its commitment to upholding the dress code, it gave assurance that future enforcement would be carried out respectfully and in line with due process.
“The university assures all stakeholders that enforcement of the same will always be carried out with respect and civility.”
“UPSA remains dedicated to providing a safe, respectful, and professional learning environment for all students and staff. The University appreciates the concerns raised and reassures the public that the incident has been addressed holistically.”
Barcelona have reignited their interest in Dutch full-back Denzel Dumfries, with new manager Hansi Flick keen on bolstering his options on the right flank. According to reports from Spain and Italy, the Catalan giants are seriously considering the Inter Milan defender, who impressed in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals against Barça last season.
Flick’s Tactical Vision
Since his arrival, Flick has made it clear he wants a more dynamic presence at full-back, particularly down the right. While Jules Koundé, Eric García, and youngster Héctor Fort are all options, none offer the attacking threat or physical intensity that Dumfries consistently delivers.
The 28-year-old Dutch international fits the mould of an aggressive wing-back—strong going forward, quick in transition, and disciplined in defence. He registered two goals and three assists across both legs against Barcelona in the Champions League, performances that reportedly left a lasting impression on the Blaugrana staff.
A €25 Million Opportunity
Dumfries has a €25 million release clause, which remains valid until mid-July. This gives Barcelona a narrow window to trigger the deal before Inter Milan re-evaluates their asking price or opens talks for a contract extension.
While €25 million is considered reasonable for a player of Dumfries’ calibre, Barça’s current financial restrictions mean the club must first free up space under La Liga’s salary cap rules. The “1:1 rule” requires Barcelona to match every euro spent with one earned or saved, adding complexity to any incoming transfers.
Financial Juggling and Next Steps
To proceed with the Dumfries deal, Barcelona are expected to offload players to generate funds and reduce their wage bill. Names like Sergiño Dest, Marcos Alonso, and Clément Lenglet are believed to be on the exit list.
If they can successfully balance the books, Dumfries could become Barça’s first major signing of the summer and a vital cog in Flick’s tactical system. Sources close to the club believe a formal bid could be submitted in the coming days, should the financial green light be given.
A Strategic Fit
For Flick, Dumfries offers more than just depth. His physicality, overlapping runs, and ability to stretch defences could provide a new dimension to Barcelona’s right flank—particularly important as the team looks to reassert itself both in La Liga and Europe.
With just days left before the clause expires, the coming week will be critical in determining whether Denzel Dumfries becomes the next chapter in Barcelona’s summer rebuild.
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and Ghana’s education sector are in mourning following the tragic passing of Alhaji Yakub Bin Abubakr, a respected missionary and former Headmaster of T.I. Ahmadiyya Senior High School (T.I. AMASS), Kumasi.
According to reports, Alhaji Yakub was involved in a serious motor accident along the Winneba–Cape Coast highway. He was placed on oxygen and received intensive medical attention, but sadly succumbed to his injuries. His death was confirmed earlier today.
Alhaji Yakub was widely revered for his unwavering commitment to both faith and education. As a long-serving missionary and headmaster, he was known for his integrity, disciplined leadership, and efforts to uphold academic and moral excellence at T.I. AMASS and within the wider Ahmadiyya educational framework in Ghana.
“This is a profound loss not only to his immediate family but also to the entire Ahmadiyya fraternity, the education community, and the nation at large,” a former colleague noted.
His legacy lives on in the thousands of students he mentored, the educators he inspired, and the communities he served with dedication and humility.
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Mission, educational authorities, and members of the general public have extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, offering prayers for peace and divine mercy for the departed soul.
May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, shower His mercy upon him, and admit him to Jannatul Firdaus.
Details regarding funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.
