Sunyani: The Narcotic Control Commission (NACOC) has opened a new office in the Sunyani West Municipality with the aim of tackling drug abuse in the region. Narcotic Control Officer Fidelia Ali Yamusah, who serves as the Sunyani West Municipal Commander of the Board, announced that the office is actively gathering intelligence to effectively address the drug issues in the area.
According to Ghana News Agency, the newly established office focuses on regulating and controlling the use of narcotic drugs, ensuring their use is limited to medical and scientific purposes while preventing abuse and trafficking. This initiative is part of the Board's nationwide mandate. The office has already begun a series of drug education programs on local radio stations and plans to extend these educational efforts to schools, starting from the basic level, to inform students about the dangers and negative effects of drug use on their lives and futures.
The Commission has also initiated visits to local institutions such as the Sunyani West Police and the Ghana Education Office to foster collaboration and gather information on the drug use situation in the region. Additionally, the team visited the Ghana-West African Programme to Combat AIDS and STI (WAPCAC) to gain insight into their harm reduction strategies for individuals who use drugs. Mr. David Fianko Asante, Project Officer of the Bono and Bono East centre, provided a briefing on the centre's friendly intervention strategies.
Superintendent Eric Anaba, the Sunyani West Police Commander, highlighted the high rate of drug abuse in the area and its contribution to criminal activities. He expressed concerns about the impact on the youth's future and advised them to steer clear of drugs and work diligently to avoid future difficulties. The Commander remains hopeful that the Municipality is under control.