Ashanti South Police Arrest Five After Intercepting Large Cache of Prohibited Drugs and Thwarting GH¢50,000 Bribe

The Ashanti South Command of the Ghana Police Service has arrested five individuals following the interception of a significant quantity of prohibited drugs along the Obuasi–Dunkwa highway. The operation, which took place on February 13, 2026, at the Tweapease Police barrier, led to the discovery of high-dosage Tramadol and Tapentadol concealed within a commercial vehicle. This crackdown underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to dismantle illegal drug trafficking networks operating within the Ashanti Region and across the country. During a routine check, officers conducted a thorough search of a commercial bus driven by Joseph Nkrumah. The search yielded a substantial haul of controlled substances, including 257 packs of 50mg Tramadol, 58 packs of 250mg Tramadol, and 58 packs of 225mg Tapentadol. Upon questioning, the driver identified a local woman known as Perpetual as the owner of the illegal cargo. The precision of the interception highlights the effectiveness of police barriers in monitoring critical transit routes used for smuggling. The investigation took a dramatic turn the following day when Perpetual and three other female accomplices attempted to compromise the legal process. In a bold move to secure their release and halt the inquiry, the suspects allegedly offered the police officers a bribe of GH¢50,000. Refusing the illicit payment, the officers promptly apprehended the four women, adding bribery and interference with a police investigation to the initial drug-related charges. The Ghana Police Service has reiterated its unwavering commitment to maintaining public safety and combating the spread of prohibited drugs. By refusing the substantial bribe and proceeding with the arrests, the Ashanti South Command has sent a strong message regarding the integrity of the force. The five suspects remain in custody as investigations continue, with the police urging the public to provide information that could lead to further disruptions of the illegal drug trade in Ghana.