The Bono East Regional Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has arrested six suspects during a targeted anti-narcotics operation at Techiman Nkwaeso in the Techiman Municipality as part of efforts to curb the growing abuse and trafficking of illicit drugs in the region.
The operation, dubbed “Chase Them Out,” was sanctioned by the Bono East Regional Commander of NACOC, SNCO Portia Abuwie Demuyakor, following intelligence gathered by officers over the past week.
The suspects, comprising five men and one woman, have been identified as Muhis Tahiru, 24; Abdul Basit Ibrahim, 28; Obeng Emmanuel, 24; Kadali Abdullaih, 73; Kwasi Oppong, 28; and Owusu Rita, 38.
According to the Commission, officers raided a known drug den at Techiman Nkwaeso and also mounted roadside checks, searching motorcyclists, tricycle riders and vehicles transporting charcoal as part of the intelligence-led operation.
The exercise led to the seizure of a quarter of a polythene bag of suspected cannabis, one and a half blister packs of 250mg tramadol tablets, two rolls of suspected cannabis, two pairs of scissors, one cannabis grinder, four packs of rolling papers, five lighters, ten mobile phones, three motor vehicles, one bicycle and one tricycle (Pragyia).
Speaking after the operation, the Bono East Regional Operations Officer of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), ANCO Andrews Ansah Boakye, said the Regional Command had intensified enforcement activities in response to what he described as an alarming rise in the abuse of illicit drugs in Techiman and across the Bono East Region.
He cautioned individuals engaged in the sale and distribution of narcotic drugs to desist from the illegal trade, warning that intelligence-led operations would continue across the region to apprehend offenders.
“The Bono East Regional Narcotics Control Commission has intensified its operations because we have observed that the abuse of illicit drugs is becoming increasingly rampant in Techiman and across the Bono East Region.
“On behalf of my Regional Commander, I want to sound a word of caution to individuals involved in the sale and distribution of narcotic drugs to desist from such activities, as we will continue to pursue offenders wherever they operate”
ANCO Andrews Ansah Boakye, however, stressed that its mandate extends beyond law enforcement, noting that the Commission also provides public education, counselling and rehabilitation support for persons battling drug addiction, with referrals made to rehabilitation centers where necessary.
“However, our work is not limited to making arrests. We have dedicated departments that provide education, counselling and rehabilitation support for people struggling with drug addiction. Where necessary, they are referred to rehabilitation centers for treatment.”
The six suspects are expected to be processed in accordance with the law while investigations continue.
Source: Newspyramid.com
