By: Daniel Yao Akpabli | ignewss —Kumasi, Ghana
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Special Operations Team (SOT), in collaboration with the Ashanti Regional Police Command, has arrested several suspected drug peddlers and recovered large quantities of suspected narcotic substances during intelligence-led operations across parts of the Kumasi Metropolis.
According to a police statement signed by the head of the public affairs unit, DSP Godwin Ahianyo, the operations targeted locations identified through intelligence gathering as major centres for the distribution and sale of narcotic drugs.
One of the key operations took place at Asawase, where officers arrested Kwame Afriyie, also known as “Con Papa” or “American Man,” aged 61, who is believed to be a notorious drug dealer. A search conducted at his room and provisions shop led to the recovery of 33 parcels and 48 wraps of compressed substances suspected to be cannabis.
At another operation at Asafo, police arrested Kumasi resident Kofi Acheampong, popularly known as “Mokobiley.” A search of his room uncovered 311 transparent rubber sachets containing dried leaves suspected to be narcotic substances, 13 compressed parcels of dried leaves believed to be narcotics, 10 brown paper wraps containing black rock-like substances suspected to be narcotics, as well as quantities of restricted pharmaceutical products.
In a related operation at Krofrom, police arrested 22-year-old National Service personnel Michael Owusu Agyeman after officers discovered 15 bottles of fruit juice suspected to have been laced with cannabis.
The intelligence-led operations were extended to several communities, including Atonsu-Bokuro, Krofrom, Kenyase, Asokwa, Buokrom, and Asafo, leading to the arrest of additional suspects believed to be involved in the illicit drug trade.
Police said exhibits recovered during the operations included compressed parcels of suspected cannabis, tramadol, ecstasy tablets, amphetamine tablets, suspected cocaine, and other suspected controlled substances.
All seized exhibits have been forwarded for forensic examination, while investigations continue to identify and apprehend other individuals connected to the suspected narcotics network.
The suspects have been arraigned before court and remanded into police custody pending their next appearance.
The Ghana Police Service reaffirmed its commitment to combating drug trafficking, drug abuse, and related crimes, urging the public to continue providing credible information to support law enforcement efforts.
The Police also commended the IGP Special Operations Team and the Ashanti Regional Police Command for their professionalism, dedication, and sustained efforts in disrupting criminal networks and enhancing public safety in the region.
SOURCE: www.ignewss.com