The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to combating drug trafficking in Ghana, pledging to pursue traffickers through every possible legal and operational channel.
On April 25, 2025, the leadership of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), led by Director-General Brigadier General Maxwell O. Mantey and Deputy Director-General Alexander Twum-Barimah, held a high-level meeting with the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) in Tema.
The discussions focused on strengthening port security and curbing narcotics trafficking. Key plans outlined included enhancing container inspection processes, improving the efficiency of export operations, and deepening intelligence-sharing between the agencies.
These coordinated efforts aim to disrupt trafficking networks that exploit Ghana’s seaports as transit routes for illicit substances.
In a meeting on May 16, 2025, Brig‑Gen. Mantey requested the establishment of special courts for narcotics cases, citing delays that cause assets tied to such offences to deteriorate before conviction. A streamlined judicial process, he argued, would enhance effective prosecution and legal forfeiture of traffickers’ assets.
Recent operations by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) highlight its intensified enforcement efforts and commitment to safeguarding youth from the dangers of drug trafficking.
On March 18, 2025, NACOC arrested a long-sought Nigerian suspect in Oyarifa and seized 192 kilograms of cocaine and 0.42 kilograms of heroin, with an estimated street value of $2.1 million.
This was followed by an April 23 operation in Tema, where 89.74 kilograms of cocaine destined for the Netherlands were intercepted, leading to the arrest of four individuals.
Most recently, on May 18, authorities at Kotoka International Airport confiscated 53.6 kilograms of cannabis and apprehended both a customs officer and a courier agent involved in the attempted smuggling.
These actions reflect NACOC’s ongoing drive to dismantle trafficking networks and protect vulnerable populations, particularly the youth, from the narcotics trade.
NACOC also issued caution to courier and logistics companies, urging stringent identity checks and package inspections to curb trafficking via postal services.
Looking ahead, several strategic steps are being pursued to strengthen Ghana’s fight against narcotics trafficking.
The Attorney General is currently reviewing NACOC’s request to establish special courts dedicated to handling drug-related offences, aiming to expedite prosecutions and deter criminal networks.
Interagency collaboration is also set to deepen, with a focus on improved intelligence-sharing at key transit points such as ports and airports.
Authorities will continue to monitor court proceedings and asset forfeiture cases linked to recent drug busts.
In addition, operational oversight at courier hubs is being tightened to uphold ethical conduct and prevent complicity in trafficking activities.
Source: Myxyzonline.com
