The Ghana Police Service has dismantled an alleged drug distribution network suspected of targeting university students, arresting 44 suspects during a series of intelligence-led operations across the Kumasi Metropolis in the Ashanti Region.
The operations, conducted between July 3 and 5 by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Special Operations Team in collaboration with the Ashanti Regional Police Command, targeted identified criminal hotspots including Emena New Site, Boadi, Abuabo, Ash Town, Kodie, Bremang, Pankrono, Gyinyaase and surrounding communities.
According to the Police, the exercise resulted in the arrest of 44 suspects, comprising 41 men and three women, for various narcotics-related offences.
A major breakthrough from the operation was the dismantling of an alleged drug distribution network believed to have been producing, distributing and selling narcotic-infused products to university students.
Police intelligence indicates that the network operated around university communities, using both physical and online channels to market and distribute the illicit products.
Among the principal suspects arrested are Emmanuel Duah, 24, who is alleged to have produced cannabis-laced toffees, advertised them on online platforms and sold them mainly to students; Richard Boateng, 45, who allegedly manufactured cannabis-infused alcoholic beverages for distribution to students; and Frederick Agyei, who is suspected to have been a major supplier of cannabis to university students.
During the operation, officers recovered 200 sachets of 225mg Tramadol (Trama King) tablets, quantities of 250mg Tramadol tablets, 400 sealed wraps of dried leaves suspected to be narcotic substances, locally prepared fruit juice ("Femude") believed to contain narcotics, a double-door refrigerator containing locally prepared concoctions suspected to be narcotic substances, quantities of Rizla rolling papers, a sealed black polythene bag containing dried leaves suspected to be narcotics, and nine casino jackpot machines believed to have been used in illegal activities.
The Police said all exhibits have been secured for forensic examination and evidential purposes, while the suspects remain in custody assisting with investigations.
The Service added that efforts are underway to arrest other individuals believed to be linked to the network in order to dismantle the entire supply chain and bring all those involved to justice.
Reaffirming its commitment to combating illicit drug trafficking, the Ghana Police Service assured the public, particularly students, parents and educational institutions, that it will continue to intensify operations to protect schools and communities from drug-related crime.
The Service also commended members of the public whose intelligence contributed to the successful operation and encouraged citizens to continue providing credible information to support law enforcement efforts.
