Gov’t traces 73 assets linked to suspected drug trafficking networks – Muntaka

Government officials have identified 73 assets potentially connected to drug trafficking networks, as part of an ongoing effort to dismantle the financial infrastructure supporting illegal drug trade activities. Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak made this revelation during a government accountability series on Monday, August 24.

Mr. Mohammed-Mubarak emphasized that the government's anti-drug campaign targets not only drug users but also individuals responsible for trafficking and the acquisition of assets funded by illicit drug proceeds. He stated that the government is employing intelligence-led operations to locate and freeze assets associated with suspected drug traffickers while legal proceedings are ongoing. Once apprehended, their assets will be seized or tainted, frozen until the prosecution is complete.

Between January 2025 and July 2026, the authorities traced approximately 73 assets, which were categorized as "tainted" due to their suspected link to drug trafficking. Additionally, authorities seized around 19 kilograms of gold in cases related to suspected drug-related money laundering. Security agencies apprehended roughly GH¢6.9 million (approximately US$440,000) in cash, believed to be associated with individuals involved in the illicit drug trade.

The asset tracing and seizures are integral to the government's strategy aimed at weakening the financial underpinnings of drug trafficking networks, thereby preventing convicted offenders from benefiting from their illicit gains. Over the past two years, authorities have seized more than 8,500 kilograms of narcotics and approximately 45.4 million tramadol tablets.

In the same period, 217 arrests were made, and 165 prosecutions were initiated against suspected offenders. The Minister commended the Narcotics Control Commission, the Ghana Police Service, and other security agencies for their intelligence-led operations targeting illicit drug trafficking and abuse.