NACOC targets drug kingpins in bold new crackdown

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has announced a major shift in its approach to combating drug abuse in Ghana.

This shift prioritises the dismantling of drug trafficking networks over the arrest of individual users.

According to Alexander Twum-Barimah, Deputy Director-General of NACOC, the previous strategy of targeting users has had limited success in curbing illegal drug consumption.

The Commission now believes that cutting off the supply chain is key to making a lasting impact.

“Arresting users alone doesn’t solve the problem. We believe the real solution lies in targeting the source the dealers and drug lords. Once the supply is disrupted, there will be nothing for users to access,” he said.

Twum-Barimah emphasized that NACOC is gathering solid evidence before making arrests to ensure successful prosecutions.

“We’re building strong cases. If we move too quickly without the right evidence, prosecution may fail. We want to ensure that when we act, we can prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.”

The Commission reiterated its commitment to tracking and dismantling the operations of drug kingpins to reduce availability and protect young people from the harmful effects of narcotics.