By: Daniel Yao Akpabli | ignewss — Kumasi, Ghana
The Ghana Police Service has dismantled an alleged drug distribution network believed to have been targeting university students in the Ashanti Region, leading to the arrest of 44 suspects during a series of intelligence-led operations across the Kumasi Metropolis.
According to a statement issued by the Ashanti Regional Police Public Affairs Unit, the operations were carried out by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Special Operations Team in collaboration with the Ashanti Regional Police Command between July 3 and July 5, 2026.
The coordinated raids were conducted at several identified criminal hotspots, including Fomena New Site, Boadi, Abuoba, Ash Town, Kodie, Breman, Pankrono, Gyinyase, and surrounding communities.
Police said the exercise resulted in the arrest of 41 men and three women, all suspected of various narcotics-related offences.
Alleged Drug Network Targeting Students
Investigators say a key outcome of the operation was the dismantling of an alleged drug syndicate involved in producing, distributing and selling narcotic-infused products specifically targeted at university students.
Preliminary intelligence indicates that the network had been operating within and around university communities.
Among the principal suspects is Emmanuel Duah, 24, who is alleged to have manufactured cannabis-laced toffees marketed through online platforms and sold primarily to students.
Police also identified Richard Boateng, 45, who is accused of producing cannabis-infused alcoholic beverages for distribution to students, and Frederick Agyei, who is alleged to have been a major supplier of cannabis to university students.
Large Quantity of Suspected Narcotics Recovered
The operation led to the recovery of a significant quantity of suspected narcotic substances and related equipment, including: 200 sachets of 225mg Tramadol, 250mg Tramadol tablets, four hundred (400) sealed wraps of dried leaves suspected to be narcotic substances, locally prepared “wee toffee” suspected to contain narcotic substances, medium-sized double-door refrigerators allegedly used to conceal narcotics, locally prepared concoctions suspected to be narcotic substances, quantities of Rizla rolling papers, sealed black polythene bags containing dried leaves suspected to be narcotics and nine casino jackpot machines believed to have been used in illegal activities.
Police said all exhibits have been secured for forensic examination and evidential purposes, while the suspects remain in custody assisting with investigations.
The Ghana Police Service added that efforts are underway to identify and arrest other individuals believed to be linked to the alleged drug distribution network as investigators work to dismantle the entire supply chain and bring all those responsible to justice.
The service reaffirmed its commitment to protecting students, educational institutions and communities from illicit drug activities and urged the public to continue providing credible information to support law enforcement efforts in combating drug-related crime.
SOURCE: www.ignewss.com