NACOC Destroys 9.6 Tonnes of Cannabis and 47kg of Cocaine as Anti-Drug Agencies Intensify Regional Campaigns

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) of Ghana has marked World Drug Day with a massive destruction of illegal substances, including 9.6 tonnes of cannabis and 46.89 kilograms of cocaine. The court-sanctioned operation, led by Director-General Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, serves as a stark reminder of the country's ongoing battle against drug trafficking. Brigadier General Mantey highlighted that while law enforcement remains critical, the ultimate goal is to safeguard public health and safety through a multi-faceted approach that prioritizes prevention and community education in the fight against drug abuse.

In the Upper East Region, the commission demonstrated the humanitarian side of its mandate by extending support to those directly affected by substance use disorders. The Regional Command, headed by Mr. Saeed Abdul-Aziz, donated essential items including clothing, toiletries, and beverages to the Presbyterian Psychiatric Hospital in Bolgatanga. Mr. Abdul-Aziz emphasized that the fight against narcotics must balance law enforcement with robust rehabilitation efforts. Patients and staff at the facility expressed deep gratitude for the support, which many viewed as a vital source of hope for those undergoing the difficult process of recovery and societal reintegration.

The campaign against drug abuse also saw significant activity across the West African sub-region, with the Network Against Corruption and Trafficking (NACAT) intensifying educational efforts in Nigeria. At the Government Secondary School in Lugbe, Abuja, over 300 students participated in a sensitization program focused on the physical and social dangers of illicit drug use. NACAT Operations Manager Stanley Ugagbe warned that substance abuse is a primary driver of academic failure and long-term health complications, urging the youth to resist peer pressure and become advocates for drug awareness within their own communities.

These collective actions across Ghana and Nigeria highlight a unified front against the narcotics trade and its devastating health impacts. From the high-profile destruction of seized contraband to grassroots school sensitizations and humanitarian support for rehabilitation centers, authorities are emphasizing that the drug crisis requires more than just policing. The activities surrounding World Drug Day reinforce the necessity of a shared societal responsibility to promote healthier lifestyles and support the long-term recovery of those struggling with addiction.