In a significant breakthrough against drug trafficking, the Western Regional Police Command has successfully intercepted two Kia trucks loaded with substances suspected to be cannabis in separate operations carried out within the Shama Municipality and the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis. The arrests and seizures were made on the evening of Sunday, following carefully coordinated intelligence-led operations.
The first interception occurred at approximately 5:30 p.m. at the Assorku Barrier. A Kia truck with registration number GE 8965-12, traveling from Accra to Takoradi, was stopped by police officers. Upon inspection, the vehicle was found to be loaded with bags of suspected narcotic substances concealed under layers of sawdust. While three individuals onboard the truck fled the scene, one suspect, identified as Moses Kweku Tawiah, was apprehended on-site.
Further investigations stemming from this initial arrest led law enforcement officers to intercept a second Kia truck, bearing registration number GS 3368-17, at Nkroful Junction. This vehicle was also found to be carrying similar suspected substances. In total, the police retrieved 152 bales from the two trucks, each bale containing approximately 80 parcels of compressed materials believed to be Indian hemp.
The operation took a dramatic turn when two additional suspects — 55-year-old Kwabena Forson and 44-year-old Isaac Kwame Kontor — were arrested for attempting to bribe police officers with an amount of GH¢69,000 in a bid to secure the release of Moses Kweku Tawiah. The officers rejected the bribe and promptly took the two men into custody.
Superintendent Olivia Ewurabena Adiku, Public Relations Officer for the Western Regional Police Command, commended the officers for their vigilance and professionalism throughout the operations. She emphasized the unwavering commitment of the police force to combating illicit drug trafficking in the region.
Superintendent Adiku also issued a stern warning to individuals involved in the illegal drug trade, reiterating that law enforcement remains on high alert. She assured the public that anyone caught transporting or dealing in narcotic substances within the region would face the full force of the law.
The Western Regional Police Command has confirmed that investigations into the matter are ongoing, and further updates will be provided as new developments arise.
This successful operation serves as a strong reminder of the dedication of law enforcement agencies to curbing drug trafficking and ensuring public safety. The police urge members of the public to collaborate by providing timely information that could assist in identifying and apprehending individuals involved in criminal activities.
As the investigation continues, this incident underscores the importance of vigilance and collective action in addressing the challenges posed by illicit drug trafficking in Ghana.
-By Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
