Safety and Security Crisis in Volta Region: 15 Perish in Fatal Collision as NACOC Intercepts GH¢1.18m Cannabis

The Volta Region has been struck by two major incidents involving significant loss of life and a large-scale criminal seizure. A horrific head-on collision at Peki-Tsame has claimed 15 lives and left 25 others injured, while a separate intelligence-led operation by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) resulted in the confiscation of over 2,300 kilograms of suspected cannabis. These developments have placed regional emergency services and law enforcement on high alert as they navigate the aftermath of the tragic road crash and move to dismantle local drug trafficking networks.

The fatal accident occurred near Peki Senior High School, involving a Mercedes-Benz container truck traveling from Nkwanta to Accra and a passenger bus en route from Battor to Kabiti. Out of the 40 individuals involved in the crash, 15 people—nine males and six females—were confirmed dead. Rescue officers from the Ghana National Fire Service successfully extricated 25 survivors from the wreckage, who were immediately transported to the Peki Government Hospital. Among the survivors were two infants whose mothers tragically did not survive the impact, highlighting the devastating human cost of the collision.

Volta Regional Minister, Mr. James Gunu, visited the Peki Government Hospital to offer condolences to the bereaved families and check on the recovery of the injured. Expressing deep concern over the tragedy, the Minister met with local authorities to discuss urgent road safety interventions. Meanwhile, the Ghana National Fire Service has launched an investigation into the cause of the crash and has issued a stern appeal to motorists to adhere to road safety regulations to prevent such avoidable disasters in the future.

In a parallel victory for regional security, NACOC officers conducted a major raid in Gbi-Wegbe after receiving intelligence regarding a local storage and distribution hub for illicit substances. The operation led to the seizure of 2,372.38 kilograms of suspected cannabis, valued at approximately GH¢1.18 million. Although no arrests were made during the initial raid, the Commission successfully disrupted a significant supply chain and is currently pursuing leads to identify and apprehend the individuals responsible for the trafficking operation.

These combined events underscore the pressing need for enhanced public safety and vigilance across the Volta Region. As investigations continue into both the Peki-Tsame accident and the Gbi-Wegbe drug bust, authorities are calling for increased public cooperation. Whether through stricter compliance with traffic laws or reporting suspicious activities to law enforcement, officials emphasize that community involvement is essential to ensuring the safety and security of the region's residents.