The Ghana Police Service has intensified its fight against narcotics, with the Northern Regional Special Operations Team, known as Red Maria, arresting 12 individuals during a targeted anti-drug operation in the Tamale Metropolis and the Tolon District.
According to a statement issued by the Public Relations Unit of the Northern Regional Police Command and copied to the Ghana News Agency in Tamale, the intelligence-led exercise was carried out on Wednesday, April 22, at about 10:30 a.m.
The operation formed part of a routine but strategic clampdown on the growing menace of drug peddling and abuse within the metropolis and its surrounding communities. Officers reportedly swooped in on identified hotspots, leading to the arrest of suspects believed to be actively involved in the sale and distribution of illicit substances.
During the exercise, security personnel retrieved quantities of substances suspected to be narcotics, including several boxes of Tramadol and dried plant materials believed to be Indian hemp. Authorities say the items have since been secured and will undergo further examination as part of ongoing investigations.
Police disclosed that all 12 suspects were apprehended for possession of suspected narcotic drugs and for engaging in unlawful drug-related activities. Following the initial arrests in Tamale, the team extended the operation to the Tolon area, where additional suspects were identified and picked up.
The individuals arrested have been named as Mohammed Shabu, 19; Abdul Rahman Rashid, 20; Zakaria Sulemana, 20; Alhassan Ibrahim, 20; Abdulai Manine, 20; Abdullai Jalil, 21; Abdul Rahman Hamidu, 24; Latif Hamadu, 48; Ibrahim Idrisu, 35; Adam Fatawu, 17; Abubakari Nayo, 24; and Iddrisu Mohammed, 34.
All suspects are currently in police custody and are assisting with investigations as authorities work to unravel possible networks behind the drug trade in the region.
The Police Command has reiterated its commitment to combating narcotics and related crimes, warning that such operations will be sustained and intensified. Residents have also been encouraged to volunteer information to support ongoing efforts to rid communities of illegal drug activities and ensure public safety.
Source: Wesleyannews.com
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