In a significant crackdown on illicit opioid trafficking, Ghana’s Minister for Health, Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, revealed that a joint operation between the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and Customs had intercepted a large consignment of opioids at the Tema Port on March 14.
The minister disclosed that the consignment, disguised as a transit shipment from Ghana to Niger, was swiftly taken to court, where an order for its destruction was obtained. The opioids were subsequently destroyed under the supervision of various stakeholders, including the FDA, NACOC, and the Ministry of Science and Environment.
Mr. Akandoh emphasized that Ghana will not be used as a safe haven for opioid trafficking, and his ministry will continue to monitor the country’s ports and harbors to prevent the influx of these dangerous substances. He also announced plans to investigate the client agent and importer, who is reportedly not a Ghanaian national.
The minister expressed his gratitude to stakeholders, including the courts and the media, for their support in the fight against opioid trafficking. He vowed to continue working tirelessly to ensure the safe disposal of opioids and to prevent their proliferation in Ghana.
This development comes as Ghana strengthens its efforts to combat the opioid epidemic, which has severe consequences for the country’s youth and productivity. With the minister’s declaration of war on opioids, Ghana is taking a significant step towards protecting its citizens and ensuring a safer future.
