Nineteen individuals have been taken into custody following a targeted anti-drug operation conducted by the Ghana Police Service in the Kumasi metropolis.
The arrests were part of an intelligence-driven crackdown led by the Inspector-General of Police’s Special Operations Team, commanded by DSP Bawah Abdul Jalil and Samuel Mustapha Abenzuo.
The unit, comprising 111 officers, was deployed to Kumasi to combat rising criminal activity, particularly drug-related offences.
The operation focused on the Alaba and Thinker communities, areas previously flagged by police as drug and substance abuse hotspots. Law enforcement officers carried out thorough searches of premises and individuals, resulting in the discovery of various illegal substances.
One notable arrest was that of a shop operator, Ola Ruth, whose premises allegedly contained dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp. Eighteen others were apprehended in the same operation, bringing the total number of suspects to 19.
Recovered items reportedly include heroin, cocaine, opioids, and Indian hemp, alongside materials believed to be used in drug consumption.
All suspects are now in custody at the Suntreso District Police Headquarters, while seized substances have been submitted for forensic analysis.
DSP Bawah Abdul Jalil, speaking on behalf of the special operations team, said the deployment underscores the police’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks and restoring public safety in Kumasi.
“We are working tirelessly with regional commands and other units to address crime, reassure residents, and prevent illegal activities from taking root,” he stated.
The operation follows the team’s recent formal introduction to the Ashanti Regional Police Command, where regional officials pledged full cooperation, intelligence sharing, and logistical support to bolster proactive policing efforts.
Police have indicated that such targeted interventions will continue across Kumasi and surrounding districts to ensure sustained security and to disrupt drug distribution networks that threaten community safety.
