The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to curbing drug trafficking in Ghana, aiming to make the country an unprofitable destination for illicit drug trade. This initiative underscores NACOC’s mission to safeguard the safety and well-being of Ghanaians and the global community.
In a statement, NACOC announced the success of an intelligence-led operation on Tuesday, 18 March 2025, which resulted in the arrest of a 56-year-old Nigerian suspect, Uchechukwu Chima, at Oyarifa, a suburb of Accra. The operation, executed with precision, led to the discovery of a significant haul of narcotic substances at the suspect’s hideout.
Field tests confirmed the seized substances as cocaine and heroin, with a total weight of approximately 192 kilograms of cocaine and 0.42 kilograms of heroin. The street value of the confiscated drugs is estimated at $2.1 million, a substantial financial blow to the drug trafficking network.
NACOC revealed that Chima, a long-standing target of their operations, has been linked to several previous seizures and arrests. His apprehension and the removal of such a large quantity of drugs from circulation are hailed as significant victories in the fight against drug abuse, potentially saving countless lives.
The Commission emphasized that drug trafficking poses severe threats to national security and public health. A recent study, Assessment of the Impact of Drug Trafficking on National Security: A Case Study of Ghana, highlighted the extensive implications of the trade on the country’s human and national security.
To tackle this menace more effectively, the study recommended that the government:
1. Increase NACOC’s capacity by boosting personnel, funding, and logistical support.
2. Enhance inter-agency collaboration between NACOC, the Ghana Navy, and national security to strengthen enforcement and intelligence sharing.
NACOC reiterated its dedication to working with stakeholders to clamp down on drug trafficking networks. “This arrest and seizure demonstrate our resolve to make Ghana a hostile ground for drug traffickers,” the statement concluded.
As NACOC continues its fight, it urges the public to support its efforts by reporting suspicious activities and fostering a drug-free society.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
