Northern Regional Police Command intensifies anti-drug operations, arrests 217 suspects

The Northern Regional Police Command has intensified its response against illicit drug peddling and related criminal activities within the past month, leading to the arrest of 217 suspects under a special operation code-named "Red Maria." The operation, spearheaded by the Regional Special Operations Team, was established to sustain gains made by the Inspector-General of Police's Special Operations Team following its redeployment from Tamale. According to a press statement issued by the Command and signed by DCOP Mr Wisdom Lavoe, Northern Regional Police Commander, the initiative was aimed at strengthening efforts to combat drug abuse, illicit trafficking, and other associated crimes, especially within the Tamale Metropolis.

The team conducted intelligence-led swoops in known drug hotspots, including Taxi Rank, Aboabo, Nobisco Forest, Savelugu, Nanton, and Nyankpala, resulting in the arrest of suspects involved in the possession and use of illicit substances such as tramadol and Indian hemp, as well as individuals engaged in prostitution and unlawful assembly. All 217 suspects have been processed for court for offences including drug possession, drug peddling, prostitution, and unlawful assembly. Out of the number, 40 persons have been convicted by the courts, receiving fines ranging between GH¢2,400 and GH¢120,000, while others were handed custodial sentences between 15 months and 15 years' imprisonment. 32 of the convicted persons have paid their fines, while eight are currently serving prison sentences. A total of GH¢72,000 has so far been realised as fines paid to the courts.

31 accused persons remain on remand, with the rest granted court bail pending trial. The statement acknowledged the role of the public in aiding Police efforts, citing an incident in which residents of Ward K in Tamale apprehended a suspected drug peddler and handed him over