Accra: Ghana's security agencies, particularly the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), the Ghana Police Service, and other units, have maintained a strong offensive against drug trafficking in 2026. Intelligence-led operations, highway intercepts, airport vigilance, and raids on distribution hubs have led to significant seizures of cannabis (Indian hemp), cocaine, tramadol, methamphetamine precursors, and other narcotics. Many operations involved rejected bribe attempts, highlighting officers' integrity.
According to Ghana Web, a chronological roundup of major drug busts has been reported since January 2026. On January 12, Tema Regional Police intercepted two vehicles along the Akosombo-Tema road, recovering 1,613 compressed parcels of suspected narcotics. Suspects Isaac Odoi and Kwame Mani were arrested, with samples sent for forensic testing and further searches planned at their residences.
In January 2026, Volta North Police seized 648 yellow parcels of suspected narcotics from a minibus en route to Togo. Officers rejected a GHS150,000 bribe attempt, maintaining the suspects in custody. Later, on January 26, a snap check in the Ashanti Region uncovered 713 slabs of suspected narcotics, with another bribe attempt declined.
On January 16, NACOC conducted a raid in Budumburam, resulting in multiple arrests, including a key figure in the local drug trade. Cocaine was later discovered in packaged gari at Kotoka International Airport in February, with ongoing investigations into potential syndicate connections.
In February, Greater Accra Police intercepted a truck carrying 3,009 slabs of suspected cannabis. Despite a GHS150,000 bribe attempt, two men were arrested. During April and May, NACOC intercepted millions of Tapentadol tablets, continuing their campaign against pharmaceutical drug trafficking.
Additional highway and inland operations in May and June 2026 saw significant cannabis interceptions, demonstrating sustained pressure on domestic distribution networks. In June, NACOC uncovered a cannabis hub in the Volta Region and arrested three principal suspects. A Kumasi drug ring was also dismantled, with multiple arrests including a notorious peddler.
A major methamphetamine shipment was intercepted in June, highlighting Ghana's role as a transit point in international drug trafficking. Additionally, four suspected drug dealers were arrested in the Ashanti Region, with a firearm and narcotics seized.
NACOC reported 217 arrests, 165 prosecutions, and over 8.5 tonnes of narcotic drugs seized between 2025 and April 2026. These operations underscore the agencies' commitment to disrupting local abuse and international trafficking networks through better coordination, intelligence, and community support.