Obuasi: The Ashanti South Command of the Ghana Police Service has successfully intercepted a significant consignment of prohibited drugs suspected to be intended for smuggling along the Obuasi-Dunkwa highway. This operation led to the arrest of five suspects.
According to Ghana News Agency, officers stationed at the Tweapease Police barrier near Obuasi conducted the operation, which resulted in the seizure of substantial quantities of tramadol and tapentadol. These drugs were concealed in sealed boxes and transported on a commercial passenger bus heading for Ayamfuri in the central region.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Mr. Cephas Arthur, speaking on behalf of the Command, disclosed that the interception took place on Thursday, February 13, 2026, during routine security checks at the barrier. A thorough search of a red OA Kia Grandbird bus uncovered two sealed brown boxes containing 257 packs of 50mg tramadol, 58 packs of 250mg tramadol, commonly known as 'Red,' and 58 packs of 225mg tapentadol, known as 'Royal.'
The driver of the vehicle, 37-year-old Joseph Nkrumah, was immediately arrested. During interrogation, he reportedly identified a woman named Perpetual from Ayamfuri as the owner of the consignment.
ACP Arthur further revealed that investigations took a dramatic turn the following day, February 14, 2026, when Perpetual, accompanied by three other women-Diana Mensah, aged 40; Abena Neyea, 43; and Nana Akua, 35-allegedly appeared at the Tweapease barrier with an amount of GHS50,000.00. This money was purportedly intended to induce the officers to interfere with the ongoing investigation.
The officers, however, maintained their professional integrity and swiftly arrested the four women. The GHS50,000.00 has been retained as evidential material to support further investigations and prosecution.
The Ashanti South Regional Police Command has reiterated its firm commitment to combating drug trafficking and other criminal activities within its jurisdiction. The Command has cautioned individuals involved in illicit trade to desist, emphasizing that the region remains resolute and vigilant in safeguarding communities against the threats posed by illegal drug circulation.