AI-generated fake news exploited to fuel unrest in Nkwanta- MCE raises alarm over misuse of newspaper mastheads

The Municipal Chief Executive for Nkwanta-South, Joseph Antwi, has raised concerns over the use of Artificial Intelligence to spread false information in the area, including the unauthorised use of prominent newspaper mastheads such as the Daily Graphic to incite unrest.

Speaking to GraphicOnline, Mr Antwi disclosed that the AI‑generated misinformation emerged in the wake of recent communal violence in the municipality, which claimed seven lives.

He said investigations revealed that an individual has been leveraging AI tools to mislead the public by cloning the mastheads of well‑known newspapers to fabricate news about developments in the area.

“The community simply desires peace and tranquillity to go about their daily activities,” the MCE emphasised.

Six suspects arrested

In response to the violence, a combined security operation has led to the arrest of six suspects, according to the Oti Regional Police Public Relations Officer, John Nchor.

“Two of the suspects were arrested on March 29 and the remaining four on March 31,” Mr Nchor said, adding that the suspects are currently in police custody pending further investigations.

He urged the public to remain calm and assist law enforcement by providing any relevant information, while cautioning against the spread of misinformation that could trigger further violence.