The Ghana Police Service has announced a major breakthrough in the fight against drug trafficking following the arrest of a suspect caught using a private ambulance to transport large quantities of cannabis.
This latest development highlights the growing creativity of drug traffickers and the challenges security agencies face in combating narcotics-related crimes.
According to the police, the arrest occurred on September 10, 2025, when officers from the Accra Police Command, acting on sustained surveillance, intercepted a Hyundai Hiace private ambulance with registration number GX277-20.
The operation took place in front of Jamboree Drinking Spot at Labadi, Miami, a popular area in Accra known for its bustling nightlife.
“The team arrested suspect Kwame Twanda. He is 39 years of age, and he was found standing beside the vehicle and claimed ownership of both the ambulance and its contents.
“A search conducted in the ambulance uncovered quantities of dried leaves suspected to be cannabis concealed in sacks. Upon a thorough investigation and examination of the sacks, the police found 700 parcels and 473 wrappers of dried leaves suspected to be cannabis, and we have retrieved them accordingly.”
Ghana Police Service
According to preliminary investigations, the consignment originated from Kpando, located in the Volta Region.
It was being transported to Accra, where it would be distributed to buyers both within the capital and beyond.
Police revealed that Twanda admitted during interrogation that he had been involved in this illegal trade since last year.
Investigators also discovered that he purchased the Hyundai Hiace as a regular vehicle before modifying it to resemble an ambulance.
Fake Ambulance Used For Drug Trafficking
Police investigations uncovered that prior to acquiring the Hyundai Hiace, Twanda used a Toyota Highlander for the same purpose — secretly transporting illegal substances.
After upgrading to the current vehicle, he equipped it with a siren and branded it as a private ambulance to avoid suspicion.
In a shocking revelation, police said the vehicle was also used for transporting dead bodies, adding a sinister twist to the case.
This dual use of the ambulance, both for legitimate purposes and drug trafficking, has raised serious concerns about the abuse of service vehicles.
“The vehicle has been impounded, and shortly we’ll give you the opportunity to have a look at it and the substances varying, including the suspect.”
Ghana Police Service
The seized cannabis will be forwarded to the Police Forensic Science Laboratory for detailed analysis, which will play a critical role in the prosecution process.
Authorities confirmed that Twanda is currently being processed for court while investigations continue to determine the full extent of his criminal network.
Police are particularly focused on identifying possible accomplices and distribution chains involved in this high-level trafficking operation.
The Akaraja Police Command emphasized its determination to pursue every lead to ensure that all individuals linked to the case are brought to justice.
They also warned the public against the abuse of legitimate service vehicles, noting that such actions undermine public trust and pose a significant threat to national security.
Police Reaffirm Commitment To Fighting Drug Crime
In their statement, the Ghana Police Service reiterated its commitment to combating drug trafficking and protecting communities from the negative effects of narcotics.
The arrest is part of a broader nationwide campaign aimed at dismantling drug cartels and curbing the spread of illegal substances.
“We continue here to say from the Accra Police Command and caution the general public against the abuse of legitimate service vehicles for criminal activities while reaffirming our resolve to clamp down on drug trafficking.”
Ghana Police Service
Drug-related crimes have been a growing concern in Ghana, with traffickers devising new methods to evade law enforcement.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the need for constant vigilance and public cooperation in the fight against narcotics.
The police are urging citizens to report suspicious activities, stressing that community involvement is vital in the war against drugs.
The ongoing investigation into this case is expected to reveal more details about how organized networks operate and the strategies required to dismantle them completely.
As Ghana battles the menace of illegal drug trade, this arrest sends a clear message: no tactic, no matter how cunning, will shield criminals from justice.
