The Ghana Police Service has arrested 54 suspects and recovered a large quantity of suspected narcotic substances during a series of intelligence-led operations across several suburbs of Kumasi in the Ashanti Region.
The operations, conducted by the Inspector-General of Police’s Special Operations Team (SOT), targeted communities identified as hotspots for the alleged trade in narcotic substances. According to the police, the exercise forms part of ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking, dismantle criminal networks, enhance police visibility and strengthen public confidence in law enforcement.
The targeted areas included Atwima-Koforidua, Abuakwa, Sofo Line Lorry Station, Ash Town, Ahwia, Bantama, Aputuogya, Krofrom, Pankrono, Tafo, Twumduase, Krofrom-Colombia and Alarba.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, July 15, the police said the operations led to the arrest of 54 suspects, comprising 49 men and five women.
Among the male suspects are 11 Malian nationals and 38 Ghanaians, all arrested in connection with various alleged drug-related offences.
Police said the operation also led to the recovery of several exhibits, including hundreds of tramadol tablets of varying strengths, dozens of boxes of tramadol, hundreds of sealed packages containing dried leaves suspected to be narcotic substances, suspected narcotic seeds, rubber wraps, narcotics processing materials, bottles of fruit juice suspected to contain narcotic substances, assorted foreign cigarettes, 23 mobile phones, two casino jackpot machines and four unregistered motorcycles.
According to the police, all 54 suspects remain in custody to assist with investigations and will be put before the court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The Ghana Police Service assured the public that intelligence-led operations targeting illicit drug trafficking and other criminal activities will continue across the country.
It also expressed appreciation to the public for their continued support and encouraged citizens to provide timely and credible information to assist the police in maintaining peace, safety and security within communities.
