By Edward Dankwah, GNA
Bundase (GAR), June 24, GNA – The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has destroyed some quantities of illicit drugs, including 9.6 tons of cannabis and 46.89 kilograms of cocaine, as part of efforts to clamp down on drug trafficking and abuse in the country ahead of this year’s World Drug Day commemoration.
The destruction exercise, supervised by NACOC together with partner security agencies and officials from the Ghana Standards Authority, also included 2,734 bottles of cannabis-laced drinks, 130 boxes of hemp-related products and other controlled substances approved by the court for destruction.
Addressing journalists during the exercise, Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, the Director-General of NACOC, said the event was not only meant to eliminate dangerous substances from circulation, but also to demonstrate Ghana’s unwavering resolve to safeguard public health, public safety, and national security.
He said the substances destroyed had been lawfully seized through the efforts of NACOC and collaborating with security agencies and had undergone all required legal processes before destruction.
The Director-General said the destruction exercise marked the final stage of the enforcement process and ensured that the substances would never find their way back into communities.
“These substances represent thousands of doses that could have fueled addiction, destroyed families, endangered young people and strengthened criminal networks,” he added.
He stressed that the exercise sent “a very strong and unmistakable message” to drug traffickers and criminal syndicates that Ghana remained resolute in denying them profits from illicit drug activities.
Brigadier General Mantey highlighted the transparency measures undertaken before the destruction exercise, stating that officials from the Ghana Standards Authority inspected, tested, and weighed all the substances before court approval was sought.
He said after approval was granted, the authority conducted a field test and verification exercise again to ensure they matched the court’s authorisation.
Brigadier General Mantey said the fight against drugs could not be won through seizures alone, emphasising the importance of prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and public education.
He said NACOC continued to intensify public sensitization campaigns through engagements with the media, faith-based organisations, and educational institutions to educate young people on the dangers of drug abuse.
He appealed to the media to support NACOC’s efforts by educating the public on the dangers posed by illicit drugs to national security and the youth.
The Director-General also encouraged young people to avoid illicit drugs and become ambassadors for a safer and healthier Ghana.
GNA
Edited by Linda Asante Agyei