The Ghana Police Service has arrested 44 suspects following an intelligence-led operation targeting an alleged narcotics distribution network operating around university communities in the Ashanti Region.
The operation, carried out by the Inspector-General of Police Special Operations Team in collaboration with the Ashanti Regional Police Command, took place between July 3 and 5, 2026, across several crime-prone areas in Kumasi, including Emena New Site, Boadi, Abuabo, Ash Town, Kodie, Bremang, Pankrono, Gyinyaase and nearby communities.
According to a statement signed by DSP Godwin Ahianyo, Head of the Public Affairs Unit of the Ashanti Regional Police Command, 41 men and three women were arrested for various narcotics-related offences.
Police said a major outcome of the operation was the dismantling of an alleged drug network suspected of producing, distributing and selling narcotic-laced products to university students.
Investigators identified Emmanuel Duah, 24, as a key suspect allegedly involved in producing cannabis-infused toffees, promoting them online and selling them mainly to students. Another suspect, Richard Boateng, 45, is accused of producing cannabis-infused alcoholic beverages for distribution within university communities, while Frederick Agyei is alleged to have supplied cannabis to students.
The operation also led to the recovery of several exhibits, including 200 sachets of 225mg Tramadol tablets, quantities of 250mg Tramadol, 400 sealed wraps of dried leaves suspected to be narcotics, locally prepared fruit juice believed to contain narcotic substances, a refrigerator stocked with suspected narcotic concoctions, Rizla rolling papers and nine casino jackpot machines believed to have been used for illegal activities.
Police said all the exhibits have been secured for forensic examination, while the suspects remain in custody assisting with investigations.
The Ghana Police Service said efforts are ongoing to track down other suspects linked to the network and dismantle the entire supply chain.
The Service reaffirmed its commitment to protecting schools and communities from illicit drug trafficking and urged the public to continue providing credible information to support law enforcement efforts.
