The Ghana Navy has intercepted two wooden boats carrying 117 sacks of substances suspected to be cannabis, commonly known as Indian hemp, at the Ada Estuary. The consignment is estimated to weigh approximately 4.7 tonnes and is valued at more than US$1 million.
The operation was carried out by the Navy’s Riverine Command in collaboration with the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) and National Security.
Joint Operation Disrupts Suspected Drug Shipment
In a Facebook post on November 5, 2026, the Navy stated that the seized sacks contained dried leaves, with more than 80 parcels packaged in each sack.
Preliminary intelligence gathered by the security agencies suggests that the consignment was being transported out of Ghana. The suspects reportedly abandoned the boats and their cargo after spotting pursuing naval personnel and fled the scene.
Strengthening Security Along Ghana’s Waterways
Speaking to the media, the Director of Naval Operations at Naval Headquarters, Captain Festus Osei Brobbey, said the Navy had deployed a riverine detachment to enhance security along the Volta Lake and neighbouring communities.
He explained that the deployment was intended to prevent illicit activities and strengthen security along the waterway. Captain Brobbey also emphasised the importance of continuous surveillance and intelligence gathering in detecting and disrupting criminal operations.
He commended residents for providing timely information to support the work of security agencies.
Residents Urged to Report Suspicious Activities
The Ada East District Chief Executive and Chairman of the District Security Committee (DISEC), Kenneth Kofi Kabu Kanor, urged residents to help prevent the Volta Lake from becoming a route for illicit drug transportation.
He encouraged community members to report suspicious movements and activities to the appropriate security authorities.
The interception forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen monitoring of Ghana’s waterways and prevent their use for illicit drug trafficking. The operation highlights the importance of cooperation between security agencies and local communities in safeguarding these routes.
