Deadly Doses II: JoyNews investigation uncovers disturbing shift in Ghana's growing drug crisis

JoyNews' Deadly Doses investigation, a year after its initial report, uncovered a disturbing shift in Ghana's drug crisis. Illicit substances are increasingly reaching schools, university campuses, and popular food and drinks consumed by young people. Traffickers are moving beyond open sales in drug ghettos like Thinker Island and Columbia, concealing marijuana, opioids, and other substances in products such as sobolo, brownies, and gummies. Government surveys cited in the documentary indicate that 41% of tertiary students are aware of drug use on their campuses, while 37% of senior high school students report the same in their schools.

Psychiatrists warn that treatment centers are receiving younger patients with substance-use disorders, some of whom began using drugs in primary school. Despite sustained raids by the Narcotics Control Commission and other security agencies, Thinker Island and Columbia remain active. Traffickers are also turning to online platforms and drug-infused consumables to evade detection. The Interior Minister says a Cabinet memorandum is being prepared as part of broader efforts to confront the threat, as the government considers mandatory drug testing for people seeking employment in the public service.