A coordinated night-time crackdown by the Northern Regional Command of the Ghana Police Service has led to the arrest of dozens of suspected drug dealers across Tamale and Savelugu.
The intelligence-led operation, executed by the Special Operations unit known as “Red Maria,” deployed 33 officers on Monday evening, March 23, 2026, to dismantle active drug networks in identified hotspots.
Initial raids in Lamashegu and the Aboabo Market enclave resulted in two arrests, including one individual found with a substance believed to be cocaine. Officers subsequently tracked down a suspected distributor at NOBISCO, though a search at his residence yielded no evidence.
The exercise intensified in Savelugu, where a large-scale swoop at a known drug hub led to the arrest of 74 more suspects, significantly increasing the total number detained.
Items seized during the operation included seven motorbikes, a Toyota Camry, quantities of dried plant material suspected to be cannabis, and several sachets of Tramadol.
Police say all suspects remain in custody and are assisting with ongoing investigations, with prosecutions expected for those found to have engaged in criminal activity.
Authorities have reiterated their resolve to curb drug-related crime in the region and called on residents to continue volunteering actionable intelligence to support enforcement efforts.
