In a renewed clampdown on drug trafficking, the Ghana Police Service has arrested three individuals in two separate operations involving over 120 parcels of substances suspected to be Indian hemp.
The arrests were made as part of coordinated intelligence-led efforts targeting narcotics movement across regions.
The Kete-Krachi Divisional Police Command’s Anti-Robbery team apprehended two suspects, identified as John Dzeble, 34, and Adzobi Mesiwotso, 24.
The suspects were arrested on June 15, 2025, after their Opel Astra vehicle, with registration number GT 6430-13, was intercepted during a targeted operation.
“A search conducted on the vehicle revealed 86 compressed parcels of substances suspected to be Indian hemp, discreetly concealed in the inner compartments of the car, including the engine, doors, and boot.”
Ghana Police Service
According to the official police statement, investigators also found a portable measuring scale and a roll of masking tape inside the vehicle—tools believed to have been used in the packaging of the drugs.
The suspects are currently in police custody and are assisting with ongoing investigations. Authorities indicated that further forensic testing will confirm the nature of the seized substances.
“The Oti Regional Police Command commends the swift and professional action of the personnel involved in the arrest and reaffirms its commitment to curbing drug trafficking and related criminal activities.”
Ghana Police Service
Over 120 Parcels Seized
While the Kete-Krachi operation was underway in the Oti Region, another high-profile arrest was made by the National Highway Patrol Unit of the Ghana Police Service.
During a routine patrol along the Accra–Somanya corridor, officers intercepted a Ford Transit bus near the outskirts of Ayikuma township.
A search of the bus led to the discovery of 40 tightly wrapped parcels, also suspected to be narcotic drugs.
The items were found hidden inside a fertilizer sack placed in the vehicle’s boot. Upon questioning, one of the passengers, identified as Christopher Partey, admitted that the parcels belonged to him.
“The exhibits retrieved have been handed over to the Drug Law Enforcement Unit at the Police Headquarters for further investigation. The suspect is currently in police custody, assisting investigations, and will be put before the court.”
Ghana Police Service
The vehicle, with registration number AS 524-16, was immediately impounded, and Partey was taken into custody for further interrogation.
Police confirmed that the seized parcels, along with other exhibits, have been handed over to the Drug Law Enforcement Unit at the Police Headquarters in Accra for comprehensive investigation.
These recent arrests highlight a growing concern over drug trafficking operations that use both commercial and private vehicles to transport illicit substances through Ghana’s road networks.
Security authorities have observed that traffickers are employing increasingly sophisticated concealment techniques, making detection more difficult without targeted intelligence operations.
Officials, therefore, urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior, especially involving vehicle modifications or unexplained cargo in passenger vehicles.
Accordingly, the police service assured the public that it would intensify surveillance and strengthen inter-agency collaboration to combat the trafficking and distribution of illegal substances.
Police Target Drug Crimes With Tough Laws
Meanwhile, in both cases, the suspects are expected to face charges under Ghana’s Narcotic Control Commission Act, which prohibits the possession, trafficking, and production of narcotic drugs.
The legislation imposes strict penalties, including lengthy prison sentences for those convicted.
Police also used the occasion to remind vehicle owners and public transport operators to be mindful of the individuals they transport and the cargo they carry, as liability under Ghanaian law may extend beyond the actual perpetrators to accomplices and negligent actors.
As part of broader efforts to address the issue, the Ghana Police Service continues to expand its use of surveillance technology, community policing strategies, and inter-regional coordination to disrupt drug trafficking routes.
“The Ghana Police Service remains unwavering in its commitment to rid the country of drug-related crime and ensure the safety and security of all citizens.”
Ghana Police Service
The two recent arrests bring attention to a wider pattern of trafficking that authorities say must be confronted with firm and consistent law enforcement.
Stakeholders in security, health, and civil society continue to call for coordinated national strategies that combine legal prosecution with preventive education and rehabilitation measures.
As the suspects await court proceedings, the Police Service reiterated that it will continue to pursue all individuals involved in the illicit drug trade, regardless of their status or mode of operation.
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