Ghana Law Enforcement Intensifies Narcotics Crackdown with Major Arrests in Tamale and Accra

Ghanaian law enforcement agencies have intensified their campaign against organized crime and drug trafficking, resulting in multiple arrests and the seizure of significant quantities of narcotics across the country. In a series of coordinated operations throughout September 2026, the Northern Regional Police Command and the Greater Accra Police Command intercepted large drug shipments, uncovered illegal firearms, and foiled a high-value bribery attempt. These developments come as the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) issues new public alerts to track down key figures suspected of involvement in the illegal trade.

In Tamale, the Northern Regional Police Command’s special operations team, known as RED MARIA, conducted a successful raid at the Aboabo Scrap Area following credible intelligence. The operation led to the arrest of five suspects: Ibrahim Issahaku, Mohammed John, Mohammed Nawas, Mohammed Osman Awal, and Kwame Boateng. During the search, officers recovered two pistols, three motorbikes, and a variety of illegal substances, including Indian hemp, Rohypnol, and Tramadol. Police also seized GH₵20,705.00 in cash, which is believed to be proceeds from the sale of narcotics. The suspects have been handed over to the Regional Drug Law Enforcement Unit for further investigation.

Simultaneously, in the capital, the Greater Accra Police Command intercepted a suspicious truck in Achimota, leading to the discovery of 175 slabs of suspected narcotic drugs. Two individuals, Mark Bangel and Zakaria Arafat, were arrested after they allegedly attempted to bribe police officers with GH₵30,000 to secure their release and the return of the truck. The Bravo SWAT Unit, which conducted the interception, rejected the bribe and took both men into custody. A third accomplice, identified only as Salam, remains at large as police continue to track the origin and destination of the seized shipment.

Complementing these field operations, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has declared Frank Danquah wanted for suspected narcotics-related offenses. While the specific charges against Danquah have not been publicly disclosed, the Commission has urged the public to provide information via their toll-free hotline to assist in his capture. This notice comes amid broader investigations into a significant international trafficking case involving 3.9 tonnes of cocaine sent from Ghana to France. While NACOC has not officially linked Danquah to that specific shipment, the intensified search highlights the government's commitment to dismantling domestic and international drug networks operating within Ghana's borders.