The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has intercepted a major consignment of suspected cannabis at the Swissport Terminal in Accra, delivering a significant blow to international drug trafficking operations.
The seizure, made on Friday, July 5, involved 738 compressed parcels of suspected cannabis concealed in 40 boxes falsely labelled as “assorted food items.” The illicit shipment was destined for the United Kingdom, highlighting Ghana’s ongoing challenge as a transit hub for narcotics bound for European markets.
NACOC says the bust followed weeks of targeted intelligence gathering and surveillance. Two individuals have been arrested and are assisting with investigations.
However, two additional suspects—Lincoln Nii Okaija (born March 27, 1979) and Kate Davidson, also known as “Esi”—are currently on the run. Authorities have declared them wanted and are appealing to the public for information leading to their arrest.
Cannabis trafficking remains one of Ghana’s most persistent drug-related issues. NACOC’s 2022 report revealed the seizure of over 59,900 kg of illicit drugs—a sharp rise from 15,458 kg in 2021.
While cocaine often dominates headlines, cannabis constitutes a significant portion of drug seizures due to its widespread cultivation and role in transnational trafficking.
In a related development, NACOC on June 24 conducted another major raid in Akyem Oda and Akroso in the Eastern Region. The operation, based on covert intelligence, led to the arrest of 14 individuals for drug possession and distribution.
As part of the crackdown, three licensed chemical stores were shut down for illegally selling unregistered and controlled pharmaceutical substances. Confiscated items included cannabis and codeine-based cough syrups such as “red,” which are frequently misused in local communities.
Ghana continues to collaborate with international partners, including the United Kingdom, through intelligence sharing, joint enforcement operations, and capacity-building efforts aimed at dismantling trafficking syndicates.
Under Ghana’s Narcotic Drugs (Control, Enforcement and Sanctions) Act, 1990 (PNDCL 236), trafficking narcotics without lawful authority carries a minimum sentence of 10 years imprisonment.
NACOC has reaffirmed its commitment to combating drug-related crime and urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious drug activity. The Commission emphasised that community involvement is vital to protecting public health and national security from the growing threat of narcotics.
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