In a significant stride towards combating narcotics trafficking, the Tema Regional Police Command has successfully intercepted a substantial consignment of illicit drugs in a meticulously executed operation. The seizure, which took place on August 5, 2026, underscores the relentless efforts of law enforcement agencies to dismantle drug trafficking networks within the region.
The operation, which unfolded within the confines of the Tema Harbour enclave, resulted in the confiscation of 866 parcels of a white powdered substance, suspected to be cocaine. The estimated street value of this haul stands at an impressive US$6.928 million, marking it as one of the most substantial drug seizures recorded by the Tema Regional Police Command in recent memory.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Eric Asamoah Asiedu, the Tema Regional Police Commander, provided insights into the operation during a press briefing on August 6, 2026. He highlighted that the operation was a testament to the Command's commitment to disrupting drug trafficking activities through intelligence-led policing and close collaboration with the public.
The operation was initiated following credible intelligence received by the police at approximately 7:50 p.m. on August 5. The intelligence indicated that individuals were engaged in loading parcels of a white powdered substance, concealed within sacks of gari, into a 40-foot container at a warehouse for export. Acting swiftly on this information, a team of officers proceeded to the location, where they apprehended three individuals: Gilano Horwin, a 31-year-old Dutch national; John Mensah Sabah, aged 41; and Alhaji Iddris Haruna, aged 52. These individuals were allegedly overseeing the loading operation.
The suspects, along with the truck used in the operation, were escorted to the Tema Regional Police Headquarters for further investigation. A thorough search of the consignment revealed 866 parcels of the suspected cocaine concealed within the sacks of gari. During interrogation, Gilano Horwin reportedly admitted to owning the substance and confirmed it was cocaine.
The seized narcotics have been secured and are set to undergo forensic examination to ascertain their exact nature and support ongoing investigations. The police are also working diligently to uncover the full circumstances surrounding this attempted export and identify any other individuals connected to this illicit activity.
In a separate but related development on the same day, the Prampram District Police Command intercepted an Opel taxi cab allegedly transporting substances suspected to be Indian hemp at Tsopoli. The Tsopoli Police received intelligence at about 5:00 p.m. regarding a taxi loaded with suspected Indian hemp being pursued. Officers responded promptly and intercepted the vehicle with assistance from commercial motor riders.
The search conducted on the taxi uncovered four sacks containing dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp. The driver, Eric Tetteh, reportedly admitted during interrogation that he was transporting the suspected narcotic from a village near Akuse. Efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend individuals connected to this case, including those who allegedly removed a fifth sack from the scene.
DCOP Asiedu reiterated the Ghana Police Service's unwavering commitment to intensifying intelligence-led operations aimed at detecting and preventing the movement of illicit drugs through the Tema Region. He issued a stern warning to those engaged in narcotics-related activities that they would face the full force of the law.
The police have called upon members of the public to provide credible information that could lead to the arrest of suspects connected to these cases. Investigations into both cases are ongoing, as law enforcement agencies continue their concerted efforts to combat drug trafficking and ensure public safety in the region.
-By Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
