Narcotics Control Commission and Police Escalate Anti-Drug Efforts in Ghana's Ashanti Region

The Ashanti Regional Command of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) and the Ghana Police Service have launched a multi-pronged offensive against drug trafficking and peddling across the Ashanti Region. This intensified effort combines community education with strategic enforcement, as authorities seek to dismantle the logistical networks used by drug cartels. NACOC has specifically targeted commercial tricycle and motorbike riders—key components of the local transport system—following intelligence reports that these operators are increasingly being exploited by traffickers to move illicit substances. Regional Commander Samuel Yeboah highlighted that intelligence indicates riders are frequently used for transport, necessitating a shift toward proactive community engagement.

During a sensitization program, Commander Yeboah issued a stern warning to motorists, highlighting the severe legal repercussions of involvement in drug transport. Convicted offenders face mandatory prison sentences ranging from 10 to 25 years. This initiative has been welcomed by local transport leaders, including Abu Sadick, Chairman of the Adedeta Tricycle Association, who emphasized that the program is vital for changing the attitudes of riders. Riders are now being urged to practice due diligence by verifying the contents of any packages they are hired to transport and reporting suspicious activities to the authorities to avoid falling victim to criminal exploitation.

Complementing these preventive measures, the Mankranso District Police successfully conducted a targeted operation in Kunsu Township on June 26, 2026. This raid resulted in the arrest of four suspects: Issaka Musah (22), Amankwah Emmanuel (25), Kwame Boateng (32), and Appiah Prince (23). During the operation, police recovered a cache of illegal items, including a pistol, suspected cocaine, cannabis, and Tramadol, along with GH"5,647.40 in cash. The suspects are currently in custody and are assisting with ongoing investigations as they prepare to face formal charges in court, representing a significant blow to local peddling syndicates.

Despite these successes, NACOC officials have pointed to significant resource constraints that continue to hamper their operations. Commander Yeboah appealed for increased government and private sector support, noting the urgent need for more office space and specialized equipment to effectively combat the evolving tactics of drug traffickers. The Commission maintains that a collaborative approach, involving both vigilant public participation and well-resourced law enforcement agencies, is essential to eradicating the drug menace and maintaining public safety in the region.