The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has destroyed 9.6 tons of illicit drugs in a public disposal exercise, as the Commission intensified its crackdown on drug trafficking networks across the country.
The exercise, conducted on Tuesday morning, saw the destruction of cannabis, cocaine, cannabis-infused drinks and other narcotic-related products that had been seized through coordinated operations with partner security agencies.
Speaking at the destruction site, the Director-General of NACOC, Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, warned drug traffickers that the Commission, in collaboration with the courts, remains firmly committed to ensuring that offenders are brought to justice.
“Only God and the courts can free you,” he cautioned, stressing that seized narcotics are permanently removed from circulation after due legal processes.
He explained that the substances were lawfully confiscated through intelligence-led operations and were destroyed only after obtaining court approval.
According to him, the items destroyed included 9.6 tons of cannabis, 46.89 kilograms of cocaine, 2,734 bottles of cannabis-laced drinks, 130 boxes of hemp-related products, and other substances authorised by the court.
Brig. Gen. Mantey said the destroyed drugs represented thousands of doses that could have fuelled addiction, destroyed families and strengthened criminal networks.
“This destruction sends a strong message that Ghana remains resolute in denying drug traffickers and criminal networks their profits,” he stated.
He further noted that NACOC adhered to strict verification procedures before the exercise.
Officials from the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) reportedly inspected, weighed and tested the substances prior to court approval, and subsequently re-verified them before destruction.
He said the process reflects NACOC’s commitment to transparency, accountability and compliance with international drug control obligations.
The NACOC Director-General also emphasized that enforcement alone cannot solve the drug problem, stressing the importance of prevention, rehabilitation and public education.
As part of that strategy, he disclosed that NACOC has held its first national seminar for guidance and counselling teachers, bringing together participants from all 16 regions to strengthen drug prevention education in schools.
He said the Commission continues to engage faith-based organisations and educational institutions as part of efforts to sensitise young people about the dangers of drug abuse.
Brig. Gen. Mantey also revealed that NACOC, working with the Bureau of National Investigations and other security agencies, has arrested the alleged “lead shipper” in the Australia-bound methamphetamine trafficking case.
He said the suspect played a central role in the operation and was apprehended after months of sustained surveillance.
“We will get to the bottom of this enterprise and ensure Ghana is not branded a narco state,” he stated.
With World Drugs Day approaching, the NACOC boss issued a stern warning to individuals involved in narcotics trafficking, saying enforcement operations would be intensified nationwide.
He urged offenders to desist immediately, cautioning that security agencies would continue to pursue them relentlessly.
Brig. Gen. Mantey also called on young people to stay away from illicit drugs and support national efforts to combat substance abuse.
“Together we can build a safer Ghana where our communities are protected and the menace of illicit drugs is effectively confronted,” he said.
