NACOC Director-General urges journalists to investigate drug trafficking networks in Ghana

Major General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, the Director-General of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), has called on journalists to investigate drug trafficking networks in Ghana, rather than focusing solely on arrests and drug seizures. He believes that deeper media investigations into the structure of these networks and the gaps they exploit could enhance public understanding of narcotics trade and bolster efforts to protect vulnerable communities.

At the Ashanti Media Excellence Awards in Kumasi, Rees Hakeem Oduro, the Ashanti Regional Director of NACOC, reiterated this message on behalf of the Director-General. He urged journalists to move beyond sensational headlines and explore the broader issues surrounding narcotics, including institutional responses and measures to safeguard communities.

Mantey emphasized that while drug seizures and arrests provoke interest, they only scratch the surface of a more extensive story. He encouraged journalists to report on community concerns, especially those impacting young people and other vulnerable groups, and to ensure that their coverage is evidence-based, avoiding the presentation of allegations as established facts.

NACOC remains dedicated to collaborating with the media to promote public education, accountability, and societal protection against the adverse effects of illicit drugs. These remarks were made under the theme, “Celebrating Excellence, Championing Credibility: Journalism in the Age of AI.”