The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has arrested 10 people over the alleged trafficking of cannabis and cannabis-infused drinks during Students’ Representative Council (SRC) Week celebrations at Koforidua Technical University (KTU).
The suspects – nine men and one woman – were detained during an intelligence-led operation on the night of Friday, 31 July. The operation followed reports of suspected drug-related activity on the university campus in the New Juaben South Municipality.
NACOC said its officers recovered quantities of suspected cannabis, along with a range of food and drink products believed to have been mixed with the narcotic.
Among the items seized were wraps of suspected cannabis, cups of “abele” ice cream, bottles of pineapple juice, sobolo and fresh palm wine. Other beverages were also taken during the operation.
The commission said preliminary field tests conducted on the seized products indicated the presence of cannabis. That finding has raised concerns that the items may have been intended for distribution to people attending the SRC Week celebrations.
All 10 suspects remain in custody and are assisting with investigations, NACOC said. The inquiry is aimed at determining the full extent of the alleged operation and identifying any other people who may have been involved in the suspected illicit trade.
The arrests came after reports of drug-related activities during the university celebrations prompted the intelligence-led intervention. NACOC has not disclosed further details about the identities of those detained or any charges brought against them.
The commission has reiterated its commitment to tackling drug-related activity in educational institutions. It also urged students and members of the public to stay alert and report suspicious behaviour to the appropriate authorities.
NACOC’s investigation will establish whether the seized products were being sold or distributed as alleged, and whether additional individuals are linked to the case. The suspects are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
