The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has unequivocally declared its intent to intensify the battle against the pervasive proliferation of illicit drugs across the nation.
This resolute stance comes directly from the Deputy Director-General of NACOC, Alexander Twum-Barimah, who affirmed the Commission’s commitment to a more aggressive and far-reaching approach in curbing the drug menace.
His statements underscore a significant strategic shift, moving beyond reactive measures to a proactive campaign designed to confront drug traffickers and users directly within communities.
Mr. Twum-Barimah attributed the recent string of successful operations, including significant raids and the confiscation of substantial quantities of illicit drugs in various parts of the country, directly to NACOC’s unwavering dedication and heightened operational tempo.
These tangible successes, he explained, are not isolated incidents but rather a testament to the Commission’s renewed vigour and strategic focus.
“NACOC is working hard but now we are taking the fight to their doorstep, and about a week or so, when we destroyed some quantities of drugs, the Director-General made it clear that from July, we are going to extremely intensify the fight.”
Deputy Director-General of NACOC, Alexander Twum-Barimah
This declaration signals a shift from a more contained enforcement model to one that actively seeks out and disrupts drug networks at their very foundations, bringing the fight directly into the public domain.
Revitalisation of the Commission
A crucial element of this invigorated offensive, according to Mr. Twum-Barimah, involves the dramatic revitalisation of previously dormant departments within the Commission.
He revealed that prior to the current administration, certain units were not operating at their full potential, a situation that has since been rectified. While he refrained from explicitly naming these departments, he was candid about their past state.
“Now, all the various units or departments that were more or less sleeping have been extremely activated. As at the time we took over, I will say yes (some departments were sleeping).
“I mean, if you are not actively working as you are supposed to, it means you are sleeping on the job; it is as simple as that. I don’t need to outline them (the sleeping departments). Now, you can attest to the fact that they have all been awakened and are actively working.”
Deputy Director-General of NACOC, Alexander Twum-Barimah
This activation, he emphasised, is a critical component of the government’s comprehensive and renewed effort to dismantle the illicit drug trade. The implication is clear: every part of the Commission is now expected to contribute meaningfully to the overarching objective.
The Deputy Director-General’s remarks highlight a broader governmental commitment under President Mahama’s administration to tackle the drug problem with unprecedented force.
The activation of these previously underperforming departments signifies a systemic overhaul, ensuring that all available resources and personnel are optimally deployed.
This renewed dedication is designed to create a more cohesive and formidable front against drug cartels and distributors, ensuring that no aspect of the illicit trade goes unchallenged.
The emphasis on full activation and accountability within the Commission reflects a strategic decision to maximise internal efficiency and effectiveness, thereby bolstering the overall national capacity for drug control.
In recent months, NACOC has indeed demonstrated its heightened operational capabilities through a series of high-profile interventions. These include the interception of several containers suspected of harbouring illicit substances, preventing large quantities of drugs from reaching the streets.
Furthermore, the Commission has successfully apprehended numerous individuals involved in the possession and trade of illicit drugs. These arrests and seizures are direct outcomes of targeted operations, meticulously planned and executed to disrupt supply chains and dismantle distribution networks.
For Mr. Twum-Barimah, these ongoing efforts by NACOC represent a determined and sustained campaign to safeguard the nation from the destructive impact of illicit drugs, signalling a period of relentless enforcement and strategic vigilance.
