The African Centre for Tax Policy Research (ACTPR) is urging the government to reconsider its plan to abolish the 1% COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy.

Instead, the Centre proposes that the levy be repurposed to fund the newly proposed Ghana Medical Trust Fund, popularly known as “Mahama Cares.”

Currently, the centre noted that plans to fund the Trust rely on portions of the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL), government allocations, voluntary donations, and donor support. However, the ACTPR has raised concerns about the sustainability and reliability of these sources, noting t

hat voluntary contributions are often unpredictable and politically vulnerable. The Centre pointed out that the COVID-19 levy alone generated over GHS 3 billion in 2024, demonstrating its potential as a consistent revenue stream.

The ACTPR further argued that by restructuring the levy including making input Value Added Tax (VAT) deductible for businesses and ring-fencing the funds exclusively for critical healthcare, the government can establish a sustainable financing mechanism for life-saving treatments while easing the burden on businesses.

In an interview with Citi Business News, tax consultant with the Centre, Francis Timore Boi, stated:
“These are voluntary contributions, and they are unpredictable and politically vulnerable. They are unlikely to meet the recurring, high-cost nature of dialysis and other chronic diseases.”

He continued: “Although the government plans to abolish the 1% COVID-19 levy, we believe it can be reformed and redirected towards the Trust Fund. In 2024 alone, the levy raised about GHS 3 billion. Given the serious and ongoing financial needs associated with chronic illnesses, it would be ideal to secure a reliable and permanent source of funding.”

Timore Boi stressed that transparency in the management of the funds would be crucial in winning public support: “We believe Ghanaians will back this initiative, especially if there is clear accountability on how the money is used to assist people living with chronic conditions.”

The Mahama Cares initiative aims to provide financial support for the treatment of chronic and high-cost illnesses such as kidney failure, cancer, stroke, and cardiovascular diseases, ensuring that no Ghanaian is denied critical healthcare due to financial constraints.

S&P Global Ratings has upgraded Ghana’s credit rating to CCC+ from ‘SD’ or Selective Default, as a result of the nearing completion of the country’s debt restructuring negotiations with its commercial creditors

The upgraded rating better reflects S&P’s forward-looking opinion of Ghana’s creditworthiness.

The US-based firm in a statement said the outlook on both the foreign and local currency ratings is stable.

Similarly, Ghana’s transferability and convertibility assessment remains ’CCC+.

It explained that the stable outlook balances supportive economic growth, ongoing fiscal reforms, and Ghana’s improved external position against high debt service costs and a weak (although improving) track record of public financial management through election cycles.

“The upgrade reflects recent steps taken by authorities to restructure remaining commercial debt, following a successful Eurobond exchange in October 2024. The government is nearing completion of its offers to restructure loans to external creditors, primarily commercial banks. This progress follows the successful completion of local currency and Eurobond restructurings, and a memorandum of understanding with bilateral creditors signed and ratified on January 29, 2025”, it added.

It continued that the ratings on Ghana are supported by improving external metrics, with significant increases in gold export receipts and a reaccumulation of foreign exchange (FX) reserves.

In addition, economic growth remains resilient despite the protracted debt restructuring process. External debt makes up 62% of government liabilities, or 49% of Gross Domestic Product, implying that debt sustainability will remain contingent on exchange rate developments, and therefore key export prices.

It however warned that Ghana continues to struggle with a high debt service burden, weak tax administration, and spending overruns, especially during election years.

It noted that inflation, which is currently at 21.2%, remains high but is falling due to cedi appreciation and lower energy prices. The shift of the country’s current account into surplus has resulted in increased external liquidity.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, took center stage on the dance floor on the evening of Friday, May 9, 2025, showcasing his graceful moves and drawing admiration from attendees at the Millennium Excellence Awards held at the Manhyia Palace.

In a video circulating on social media, the revered King, dressed formally in a black suit and white shirt, is seen making calculated, timely moves as he and other guests were treated to highlife music performed by Akwaboah.

The excited King’s dance moves were perfectly in sync with the beat, showing that he still possesses impressive skills—even after turning 74 on May 6, 2025.

The Millennium Excellence Awards, hosted by the Asantehene at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, brought together leaders from government, civil society, the arts, and the media to celebrate individuals and institutions making a lasting impact on national development.

The awards particularly spotlighted those whose work supports the underprivileged, including the poor, widows, and orphans.

Artist Kofi Kinaata and journalist Erastus Asare Donkor were among the many personalities honored on the night.

Other distinguished recipients of the Lifetime Africa Achievement Prize at the event included Dr. Osei Kwame Despite, CEO of the Despite Group of Companies; Dr. Ernest Ofori Sarpong, CEO of Special Ice Water; and Dr. Nick Danso, CEO of Ghana Link Network Services.

The ceremony had former President John Mahama as the Special Guest of Honour.

Asantemanwura nie oo 🔥👑 The Standard!
When son of the soil, @AkwaboahMusic, performs for his King.#millenniumexcellenceawards2025 pic.twitter.com/TwKfjh6xbH

— The Asante Nation (@Asante_nation) May 9, 2025

KA

Meanwhile, watch why #SaveTheJudiciaryDemo is trending on GhanaWeb TV below

Prophet Eric Boahen-Uche and Robert Prevost, known as Pope Leo XIV

Ghanaian Prophet Eric Boahen-Uche, the founder of Reign House Chapel International, has stirred outrage on social media following his controversial prophecy that the newly elected Pope, Robert Prevost, known as Pope Leo XIV, will not live beyond four years.

According to the prophet, the papal position following the death of Pope Francis was originally destined for a black man. However, he claimed that the election was manipulated in favour of Robert Prevost.

Weeks before the conclave, Prophet Uche had made similar statements. Following the election of Pope Leo XIV, he reiterated his stance during a sermon to his congregation.

“Let me say this today, I was there this afternoon around 5, and Long John sent me a video, he told me, ‘Papa, what you said has come to pass, they have chosen a white pope,’ and he showed me the video.”

He continued, “Listen, when did I say this? A week ago. I said a black man would be the pope, but they wouldn’t give it to him. And the one they give it to will live only three to four years. If I’m truly a man of God, write it down. If the new pope lives beyond four years at the Vatican, then I am not Prophet Uche.”

His comments have since triggered a wave of criticism online, with many questioning the legitimacy and relevance of such predictions.

One user wrote, “Is he normal? Ghana dey enjoy concert too much.”

Another added, “Small juju you’re doing and you think you’re more powerful than the Roman Catholic Church?”

One commenter bluntly stated, “I don’t operate in the realm, but this is nonsense.”

Others questioned the negativity often associated with such prophecies, Why is it always doom and death? Don’t they ever see anything positive?”

“Why is it always Africa where these things happen?”

Some even called for regulation, “Can they pass a law that if a prophecy doesn’t come true, the prophet goes to jail? I think that would help.”

Another added, “There’s something wrong with this ecclesia community of pastors. No wonder I can’t remember the last time I went to church. Focus on your community, whether it’s going to be here for another 2,000 years.”

Is he normal? Ghana dey enjoy concert too much 🤣🤣🤣🤦🏽

— papin 🇬🇭 (@PAPINSCOT) May 10, 2025

Can they pass a law if a prophecy doesn’t come true.. you go to jail ?

I think that would help

— andrew (@andrew692633) May 9, 2025

There’s something wrong with this ecclesia community pastors ? No wonder I don’t recall the last time I went to one smh 🤦‍♂️ Focus on your community… whether it’s going to be here for another 2,000years.

— Niclas.Humble😎❤️🦅 (@niclas_humble) May 9, 2025

Masa all this prediction me sef I can predict everyone knows they won’t give the pope to a black man cos of the racism level in Italy is high

— Wonitwaaasedi.com (@wonitwaasedi65) May 9, 2025

We are tired of these prophets koraa saf

— Mr. Sebastian (@Mr_OTA1) May 9, 2025

I saw a post about one Prophet Eric Boahen Uche saying that he saw in the spiritual realms that an African was supposed to be elected Pope and there was a hand twisting and Pope Leo XIV won’t last more than 4 years if he was a prophet of God.

Someone should tell him to rest!

— KOFI TAGBOR (@kofitagbor) May 9, 2025

Small juju you’re doing you think you’re powerful than the Roman Catholic Church 👍

— 🧟‍♀️ (@ikillthedeadsea) May 9, 2025

Ei why, it’s always Africa who do these things

— AWLF🫂 (@LfAwake) May 9, 2025

i don’t operate in the realm but this is bullshid

— _drealbee_ (@_therealbee_) May 9, 2025

You people and unnecessary predictions. Allow us to be oooo

— Edward (@Eddyk4real) May 9, 2025

You people and unnecessary predictions. Allow us to be oooo

— Edward (@Eddyk4real) May 9, 2025

Why are non Catholics all so concerned abt the election of a pope like that…no catholic is saying these things

— Kobby Prince (@patako499) May 9, 2025

AM/KA

#TheAdutwumFactor! Watch as Yaw Osei Adutwum declares intent to contest NPP flagbearership for 2028

Television host MzGee has shared a raw and emotional account of the pain and sacrifice women endure during childbirth, urging people to recognize and appreciate the immense strength that comes with motherhood.

Speaking on her lifestyle show Gee O’Clock, MzGee recounted her own experience—particularly the moment she saw the size of the epidural needle used during her labour. The sight of the needle, which she described as “epic,” brought everything into perspective.

“When I saw that needle the gentleman had pulled and said, ‘This is the epic epidural needle,’ I said, ‘Jesus Christ, I can’t believe that I had that needle go behind me—or that I had that needle in my back just a few months ago.’ No wonder they never show us that needle.”

She reflected on the awe-inspiring endurance of mothers, urging viewers to show greater appreciation for their own mothers, especially on the eve of Mother’s Day.

“If you haven’t called your mother in a long time… if you haven’t shown your mother enough love… this is one for you. When I saw that, I was like, Jesus, mothers—women—actually go through a lot,” she said, emphasizing the importance of respecting and cherishing mothers for all they go through.

MzGee’s journey into motherhood was not without its challenges. She spoke candidly about the discomforts of pregnancy, recalling how she struggled with basic tasks like applying lotion to her feet. She also shared her emotional experience of enduring heartburn and other pregnancy-related discomforts, including an aversion to foods she once loved.

“The process of pregnancy… it might even exceed nine months, going to 10 months… Have you thought about the fact that that journey to giving birth is a journey of life and death?” MzGee asked, acknowledging the risks many women face during pregnancy and childbirth. “Not everybody is able to complete that nine-month journey. Not everybody is able to return home with their baby.”

Her experience with childbirth was equally harrowing. MzGee recalled the moment she received the epidural, nervously preparing for the procedure as a first-time mother. Despite the fear, she chose to take the epidural, which numbed her from the waist down during delivery. She described the overwhelming relief she felt when her baby was finally born.

However, the joy of holding her newborn was short-lived. Just days after delivery, a doctor informed her that her haemoglobin levels had dropped dangerously low—to 5—prompting an emergency blood transfusion.

“Psychologically, my mind began to go off the roof. What is happening? What is happening? By the end of that day, my blood pressure had shot through the roof,” she explained. “That is what we go through to birth a child.”

MzGee announced the arrival of her baby in January 2025.

#TheAdutwumFactor! Watch as Yaw Osei Adutwum declares intent to contest NPP flagbearership for 2028

AM/KA

Asanetehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II [R] on the dance floor

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, took center stage on the dance floor on the evening of Friday, May 9, 2025, showcasing his graceful moves and drawing admiration from attendees at the Millennium Excellence Awards held at the Manhyia Palace.

In a video circulating on social media, the revered King, dressed formally in a black suit and white shirt, is seen making calculated, timely moves as he and other guests were treated to highlife music performed by Akwaboah.

The excited King’s dance moves were perfectly in sync with the beat, showing that he still possesses impressive skills—even after turning 74 on May 6, 2025.

The Millennium Excellence Awards, hosted by the Asantehene at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, brought together leaders from government, civil society, the arts, and the media to celebrate individuals and institutions making a lasting impact on national development.

The awards particularly spotlighted those whose work supports the underprivileged, including the poor, widows, and orphans.

Artist Kofi Kinaata and journalist Erastus Asare Donkor were among the many personalities honored on the night.

Other distinguished recipients of the Lifetime Africa Achievement Prize at the event included Dr. Osei Kwame Despite, CEO of the Despite Group of Companies; Dr. Ernest Ofori Sarpong, CEO of Special Ice Water; and Dr. Nick Danso, CEO of Ghana Link Network Services.

The ceremony had former President John Mahama as the Special Guest of Honour.

Asantemanwura nie oo 🔥👑 The Standard!
When son of the soil, @AkwaboahMusic, performs for his King.#millenniumexcellenceawards2025 pic.twitter.com/TwKfjh6xbH

— The Asante Nation (@Asante_nation) May 9, 2025

KA

Meanwhile, watch why #SaveTheJudiciaryDemo is trending on GhanaWeb TV below

Veteran Nollywood actor, Kanayo O. Kanayo

Veteran Nollywood actor Kanayo O. Kanayo has sparked reactions on social media after he expressed concerns over the Catholic Church’s traditional use of black smoke to signify an unsuccessful papal election.

In a video shared on Instagram, Kanayo questioned the symbolism behind the smoke signals used during the papal conclave, where black smoke represents failure to elect a pope, and white smoke signals success.

He argued that consistently associating “black” with failure reinforces subconscious racial bias.

“When they fail, it’s black smoke. When they succeed, it’s white smoke… This has been ingrained in the minds of the world that black is failure,” he said.

Kanayo suggested that the Church should consider alternative symbolism, proposing, for example, that blue smoke could be used to indicate that no pope has been elected, while white smoke continues to announce success. “Remove the black. It’s not good for us,” he added.

His remarks have sparked wide debate online, with some supporting the call to rethink the use of long-held symbols that could unintentionally perpetuate negative associations with the color black.

Others, however, point to the fact that black is also used within the Church in a different context, notably in clergy regalia, where it symbolizes humility, solemnity, and devotion.

Meanwhile, on May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. This historic event marks the first time an American has ascended to the papacy.

Pope Leo XIV was elected after four rounds of voting during the conclave that followed Pope Francis’s death on April 21, 2025. His election is seen as a continuation of Pope Francis’s progressive agenda, emphasizing social justice, immigration reform, and outreach to marginalized communities. In his first mass, he warned against prioritizing technology, wealth, and pleasure over faith.

Pope Leo XIV’s election breaks a longstanding tradition, as the Vatican had previously avoided appointing American popes due to geopolitical concerns.

His dual citizenship and extensive work in Latin America helped bridge this gap. He is the first pope from the Augustinian Order and the first from an English-speaking country since the 12th century.

His papal name honors Pope Leo XIII, known for advocating workers’ rights and social justice, signaling a commitment to similar values.

Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration mass is scheduled for May 18, 2025. His leadership is anticipated to focus on unity within the Church and addressing global challenges with compassion and humility.

See the post below:

ID/KA

Watch as Ghanaians share expectations ahead of 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards:

Assin South MP, Reverend Ntim Fordjour

The Ranking Member of Parliament’s Interior and Defence Committee, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, has questioned the whereabouts of the cocaine President Mahama once described as part of a high-profile bust worth $350 million, seized in Takoradi—long before the recent cases currently in court.

On April 1, 2025, President Mahama ordered investigations into allegations of drug trafficking and money laundering linked to two suspicious flights that reportedly landed at Kotoka International Airport.

The directive followed a press conference by Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, the Member of Parliament for Assin South, who raised concerns about the flights’ purpose and cargo.

In a Facebook post, President Mahama said he had directed the investigative agencies to collaborate with the MP and obtain relevant information from him to investigate the allegations swiftly.

“Government takes all allegations seriously,” President Mahama noted, adding, “To ensure a thorough and transparent investigation, I have directed all relevant investigative agencies to immediately and fully collaborate with the Honourable Member of Parliament so he can provide all necessary information to investigate the allegations and take all action necessary to expose any drug dealing.”

The President reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on drug trafficking, stating that Ghana must not be used as a transit or final destination for illegal drugs.

This directive comes on the heels of a recent high-profile drug bust by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), which seized drugs with an estimated street value of $350 million. This, the President said, reflects the government’s commitment to combat drug trafficking.

However, speaking on Asempa FM on Friday, May 9, 2025, Rev. Ntim Fordjour stated that so far, only the prosecution of the 82kg cocaine bust at the Swiss port is underway.

“So far, we have seen them arraign the culprits, and the court has granted them bail. But the question begging for an answer is: what about the one the President described as a high-profile bust? I mean the $350 million and $150 million busts in Takoradi, in which it was claimed the person behind the consignment was a former NDC parliamentary candidate? How come it is only the recent 89kg cocaine bust that is being prosecuted, but nobody has been arraigned for the $350 million and $150 million busts from long ago?”

Reverend Ntim Fordjour disclosed his intention to use legal processes to push for answers on the whereabouts of the large cocaine consignments.

“My lawyers—Atta Akyea, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, and Jeff Koranteng—are taking serious action regarding the $350 million and $150 million cocaine busts. I have spoken with my lawyers, and on this specific issue, Lawyer Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah is filing a Right To Information (RTI) request to determine the whereabouts of the cocaine—a total worth of half a billion dollars. The government has initiated prosecution only in the small bust (89kg) but has remained silent on the high-profile cases. Who are the persons behind them? Where is the cocaine? The government is very quiet about this. We are filing an RTI on the issue.”

“Where is the cocaine President Mahama once described as a high-profile bust worth $350 million, seized in Takoradi long before the recent cases currently in court?”

— Rev. John Ntim Fordjour pic.twitter.com/oC6KZV2w9y

— NPP Projects Bureau (@BureauNpp) May 9, 2025

KA

Meanwhile, watch why #SaveTheJudiciaryDemo is trending on GhanaWeb TV below

Accra, May 9, GNA-The Executive Chairman of Safebond Company Limited, Papa Yaw Krobo Edusei, has urged Ghanaian business leaders to reignite the country’s economic momentum.  

Speaking as a special guest at the Millennium Economic Business and Social Impact Summit, held in Kumasi under the distinguished patronage of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II,  he emphasized the need for unity and strategic foresight in harnessing emerging opportunities rather than dwelling on past setbacks.  

A statement copied to the Ghana News Agency in Accra said the summit brought together top business executives, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders  to deliberate on the critical theme ; ‘Sustainability Development Goals: A Vibrant Economy as a Catalyst for Transformation’. 

Mr. Edusei underscored the urgency of shifting focus toward innovation, collaboration, and strategic investment.  

“For far too long, we have lamented missed opportunities. The time has come to recalibrate our approach and seize the boundless possibilities ahead,” he stated.  

He encouraged businesses to embrace technological advancements, capacity building, and international competitiveness as fundamental pillars for Ghana’s resurgence in the global economic landscape.  

The  summit was held as part of the Millennium Excellence Awards renowned for recognizing outstanding contributions to business and leadership, provided a platform to explore practical solutions for fostering economic resilience, attracting investment, and positioning Ghana as a premier hub for industrial and commercial growth.  

On economic prospects, Mr. Edusei Jnr. reaffirmed that sustainable progress required bold action, strategic partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to transformation.  

“Reclaiming opportunities demands foresight, diligence, and determination. We must rise beyond setbacks and build a future defined by excellence, he concluded.  

The summit featured high-level discussions on trade expansion, infrastructure development, and entrepreneurship empowerment, setting the stage for concrete initiatives that will propel Ghana’s economic evolution.  

GNA 

GRB 

Black Stars defender Jerome Opoku says Ghana’s painful failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has ignited an even greater drive to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ghana currently tops Group I with 15 points, three ahead of second-placed Comoros, and with four matches left, Opoku believes the team’s hunger to bounce back is pushing them toward qualification.

“We have much bigger motivation now,” Opoku told Flashscore. “Missing out on the AFCON was a huge disappointment for us, for the fans, and for the whole country. That setback has given us a deeper hunger to make things right by qualifying for the World Cup.”

The defender, who starred in Ghana’s convincing win over Madagascar, insists the team’s renewed focus is firmly fixed on securing a place at the global showpiece.

“I am 200% confident of qualifying,” he declared.

“That’s the goal, and we know it won’t come easy. But we’ve regrouped, and we’re determined to give everything to stay on top and get the job done.”

With four crucial fixtures remaining, the Black Stars are aiming to channel their frustration into fuel for redemption on the road to 2026.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Ghana’s Black Satellites will battle host nation Egypt in a decisive quarter-final clash at the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, with a place at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile on the line.

The clash follows Ghana’s strong group stage performance, where they topped Group C with seven points—securing two wins and a draw while conceding just once in three games. Despite scoring only three goals, the team displayed tactical discipline and resilience that earned them a commanding spot in the knockout round.

Egypt, who qualified as one of the best third-placed teams from Group A, now stand between Ghana and a return to the world stage. A victory for either side on Saturday will not only secure a place in the semi-finals of the continental showpiece but also guarantee automatic qualification for the 2025 U-20 World Cup.

Ghana, champions of the U-20 World Cup in 2009, have missed out on the last four editions of the tournament. This quarter-final presents a critical opportunity for the West African giants to restore their standing among youth football’s global elite.

With the pressure of the home crowd on the Egyptians and the hunger of the Black Satellites to end a decade-long World Cup absence, the stage is set for a high-intensity encounter.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

 

The Consul General of the United States Embassy, Elliot Fertik, has disclosed that the embassy issued 25,000 visas out of 61,000 applicants in year 2024.
“We continue to welcome visitors from Ghana interested in studying, investing, or doing business in the United States. Last year, the U.S. Embassy issued around 25,000 visas to Ghanaians to visit, work and study,” he said.

He, however, cautioned against entering the US without due process, adding that those who break the law may face visa refusal, revocation and or deportation.

“To enter the United States, applicants must follow the law. The United States has zero tolerance for illegal immigration. Those who break the law, including students, may face visa refusal, revocation and or deportation,” he added.

According to him, the embassy is committed to educating Ghanaians on the proper application processes to avoid any problems, adding that if anyone so much as lies to get a visa, they will face dire consequences.

“We are committed to educating Ghanaians on the proper application process to avoid any problems or complications. If one tries to enter the United States illegally, lies to get a visa, works without legal permission, or overstays a visa, there will be serious penalties.”

Media Open House

The Consul General made these remarks at the fist media open house on May 9 2025, for selected media personnel to de-mystify the visa process, highlighting visitor experience improvements and confirming visa policy.

The visit included a walk-through of the public areas of the consular section followed by a press conference.

By Vera Owusu Sarpong

Scores of people have been injured in a multiple-vehicle crash at Krofrom in the Kumasi metropolis following a heavy downpour on Friday afternoon.

The accident occurred when a cargo truck reportedly lost control while descending from the Krofrom traffic light towards Ashtown. Upon reaching the area near the X5 Pub, the truck rammed into several vehicles.

Eyewitnesses say the driver lost control of the steering, causing the truck to plough into oncoming traffic, trapping both drivers and passengers in their vehicles.

It took the swift intervention of bystanders and good Samaritans to pry open the mangled vehicles and rescue the occupants.

Several injured persons were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. The exact number of casualties remains unclear as of Friday evening.

Police have since launched an investigation into the incident and have urged road users to exercise caution, particularly during wet conditions.