The National Communications Authority (NCA) says it will shut down some 49 television channels in the country that are operating without valid licenses contrary to Section 2(4) of the Electronic Communications Act 775 of 2008.

The shutdown process which has begun, will affect channels including Virgin TV, Thunder TV, Maranatha TV, Kwaku Bonsam and Obuor TV.

A statement issued by the NCA said the exercise is being done in conjunction with the Ghana Police Service and National Security Intelligence Operatives.

It said the channels were identified during a monitoring exercise “conducted on various Satellite Free-to-Air Television platforms using the Broadcast Monitoring System (BMS) and the Radio Spectrum Monitoring System (RSMS).”

It noted that its monitoring will continue as a way of ensuring the efficient use of the country’s broadcasting spectrum.

“We also take the opportunity to caution all Licence and Authorization holders to ensure that their
Licences and Authorizations are always up-to-date and in compliance with the stated terms and
conditions,” the NCA added.

NCA has already shut down Thunder TV and Ice1 TV.

It took the action against the TV channels on Tuesday, April 20, 2021.

Nana Agradaa, known for her moneymaking ritual, ‘sika gari’, was also arrested by a joint team of Police and National Security Intelligence Operatives, in collaboration with the National Communications Authority on Tuesday night.

The team seized two pieces of equipment each used in the alleged illegal transmission from both Thunder TV and Ice1 TV.

Below is the list of affected channels: