217 arrested, 165 prosecutions initiated in drug crackdown – Interior Minister

Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak announced that the government's intensified crackdown on illicit drugs has led to 217 arrests and the initiation of 165 prosecutions over the review period. Speaking at the Government Accountability Series, he praised the Narcotics Control Commission's (NACOC) Director-General and his team for their aggressive approach to combating the country's drug problem.

The efforts have been conducted in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service and other security agencies. Muntaka highlighted the challenge of illicit drugs, noting that over 8,500 kilograms of narcotics and 45.4 million tramadol tablets have been seized. He emphasized the growing threat posed by synthetic drugs and emphasized the government's efforts to tackle the issue.

The minister stated that the strategy extends beyond arresting drug users, targeting those involved in trafficking and financing illicit drugs. Intelligence-led operations have resulted in the recovery of 73 tainted assets and the seizure of over 19 kilograms of gold in suspected money laundering cases. Cash and assets linked to individuals involved in drug trade have also been restrained, including approximately GH¢6.9 million and US$440,000 in cash.

The Interior Minister stressed that the fight against illicit drugs involves education and prevention, with the NACOC conducting over 2,000 educational programs across the country. These programs targeted various groups and institutions, including schools and workplaces. However, Muntaka acknowledged rehabilitation as a major challenge, noting that Ghana lacks a dedicated national rehabilitation center to support individuals struggling with drug dependence.