The Ministry of the Interior has warned that the increasing prevalence of drug abuse, particularly among young people and students, has become a serious national security threat that requires urgent and collective action from all sectors of society.
Speaking to the media, Press Secretary and Spokesperson for the Interior Ministry, Julius Kwame Anthony, said although government is committed to tackling the growing drug menace, the fight cannot be won by state institutions alone. He stressed the need for communities, families, schools, religious bodies and other stakeholders to actively participate in efforts aimed at preventing drug abuse and protecting the country’s youth.
According to him, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) is being strengthened with additional resources and logistics to enhance its operations and improve its ability to combat drug-related activities across the country. He explained that effective drug control requires intelligence-led operations, which depend largely on information from communities and individuals who witness or have knowledge of such activities.
Mr. Anthony therefore urged the public to support NACOC by providing timely and credible information that can assist security agencies in identifying drug networks and dealing with persons involved in the illegal trade.
“Government is doing everything possible, but communities, institutions and individuals must also get involved. Drug control must be intelligence-led, and intelligence comes from the ground. People must call in and provide information that will help NACOC fight this menace,” he said.
Touching on the approach adopted by schools when students are found involved in drug-related activities, the Interior Ministry spokesperson said expelling such students should not always be considered the only solution. He explained that while schools may take disciplinary measures to protect their reputation and prevent negative influence among other students, greater emphasis should be placed on education, counselling and prevention.
Mr. Anthony encouraged school authorities to intensify drug education programmes to help students understand the health, social and economic consequences of substance abuse. He noted that educating young people about the dangers of drugs would empower them to make better choices and avoid engaging in activities that could affect their future.
The Ministry of the Interior says NACOC will continue to lead the national campaign against drug abuse, but emphasised that sustained public support, community involvement and collaboration with security agencies remain essential to winning the fight against narcotics in Ghana.
Story by Ama Frimpomaa