Over 4,000 migrant beggars, illegal immigrants removed from Ghana since 2025 – Muntaka

Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak has highlighted the increasing prevalence of synthetic drugs as a significant hurdle in Ghana's ongoing efforts to combat illicit drug trafficking and abuse. Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on August 24, the minister explained that synthetic drugs are chemically produced substances that replicate or intensify the effects of naturally occurring drugs, including opioids, stimulants, and other psychoactive substances.

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has ramped up enforcement and public awareness campaigns to counter the surge in synthetic drug usage, according to Mr. Mohammed-Mubarak. "One of the biggest challenges now is the use of synthetic drugs, and Narcotics Control has intensified its efforts," he emphasized. During operations against illicit drugs between January 2025 and July 2026, authorities seized approximately 45.4 million tramadol tablets, along with over 8,500 kilograms of narcotic drugs, leading to 217 arrests and 165 prosecutions.

Beyond targeting drug users, the government's strategy also seeks to disrupt the networks supporting the illicit trade. The minister noted that 73 assets associated with suspected drug-related activities have been identified. Security agencies also seized roughly 19 kilograms of gold in connection with money-laundering cases linked to drug-related crimes, along with about GH¢6.9 million and US$440,000 in cash allegedly tied to individuals involved in the illicit drug trade.

Mr. Mohammed-Mubarak praised the Director-General of NACOC and his team for their assertive approach to addressing the drug crisis. He praised the collaborative approach between NACOC, the Ghana Police Service, and other security bodies, which focuses on blending intelligence-driven enforcement with public awareness initiatives to curb drug trafficking and abuse.