Police Arrest 54 Suspects in Major Anti-Drug Operation in Kumasi
The Ghana Police Service has arrested 54 suspects in a series of intelligence-led operations targeting illicit drug trafficking in several suburbs of Kumasi identified as hotspots for narcotics trade.
The operations were conducted by the Inspector-General of Police Special Operations Team (SOT) across communities including Atwima-Koforidua, Abuakwa, Sofo Line Lorry Station, Ash Town, Ahwia, Bantama, Aputuogya, Krofrom, Pankrono, Tafo, Twumduase, Krofrom-Colombia and Alarba.
According to the Police, the 54 suspects comprise 49 males and 5 females.
Of the males, 11 are Malian nationals, and 38 are Ghanaian nationals. All were arrested in connection with various alleged drug-related offences.
During the raids, police recovered a large quantity of exhibits which included 70 tablets of 125mg Tramadol, 353 tablets of 225mg Tramadol, 85 tablets of 250mg Tramadol, and 100 tablets of 250mg Royal Tramadol. Officers also seized 58 boxes of 225mg Tramadol.
In addition, 268 sealed transparent packages, 84 transparent sealed packages, 15 gold-sealed packages, and 1 polythene package containing dried leaves suspected to be narcotic substances were recovered.
Police also retrieved 1 sealed black polythene bag containing seeds suspected to be narcotics, 6 sealed rubber wraps containing suspected narcotic substances, and 13 bottles of FEMUDE fruit juice suspected to contain narcotic substances.
Other items retrieved were 34 narcotics processing materials known as Rizzlers, 13 pairs of scissors suspected to have been used in processing narcotics, 11 boxes of assorted foreign cigarettes, 23 mobile phones, 2 casino jackpot machines, and 4 unregistered motorcycles.
All 54 suspects, together with the recovered exhibits, remain in police custody assisting with ongoing investigations. The Service said they will be put before court upon conclusion of investigations.
The Ghana Police Service stated that the operations form part of its continued efforts to combat drug trafficking, disrupt criminal networks, enhance police visibility, and strengthen public confidence in policing.
“The Service remains resolute in its commitment to identifying, arresting and prosecuting persons engaged in criminal activities,” the statement added.
The Police also expressed appreciation to members of the public for their support and cooperation, and encouraged citizens to provide timely and credible information to help maintain peace, safety and security in communities.
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