Political protection could be masking Ghana’s cocaine trade – Global Organised Crime Index

The Global Organised Crime Index report suggests that political protection could be contributing to the decline in visible cocaine trafficking in Ghana. Law enforcement officials and civil society stakeholders have raised concerns that falling seizures and reduced media coverage might be masking the continued presence of cocaine trafficking in the country. The report indicates that this political protection, particularly of the cocaine trade, may be facilitated by certain sections of the government.

In addition to the decline in visible trafficking, the report also highlights the significant role of Ghanaian organised crime groups in the global cocaine trade. These groups have emerged as major players on the international stage, operating beyond Ghana's borders.

When it comes to the supply routes for cocaine entering Ghana, Brazil stands out as the primary source of cocaine shipped to the West African nation via sea. Traffickers employ a variety of tactics, such as concealing cocaine in sugar containers and utilizing trans-shipment points like Spain or Turkey to move the illicit substances.

These findings paint a picture of Ghana as being embedded within a larger international trafficking network that connects South American suppliers, transit locations, and West African ports. The report raises concerns about the alleged political protection afforded to illicit markets, which follows several recent drug busts associated with Ghana.