The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has carried out a series of intelligence-led raids across parts of the Eastern and Greater Accra Regions, shutting down several drug dens as part of a festive-season operation aimed at protecting lives during the Christmas period.
The operation, code-named Operation White Ember, targeted known drug hubs stretching from Mamfe and Tutu in the Eastern Region to Madina Redco Flats, Zongo Junction and the railway slums around Airport City in Accra.
On Boxing Day, NACOC extended the crackdown to Tema Community One and Teshie-Nungua, where dozens of suspects were arrested and quantities of illicit drugs were seized. The raids were supported by the Commission’s K9 unit, which played a key role in detecting concealed narcotics. Officers also carried out patrols at major malls, beaches and other public spaces across the capital as part of heightened festive security.
In all, 72 suspects were arrested during the operations, with exhibits seized including ecstasy, methamphetamine and cannabis-infused alcoholic drinks.
Beyond enforcement, NACOC stressed the broader social impact of the operation. The Commission said the removal of the drugs from circulation represents thousands of potential lives saved from addiction and its associated harms during the festive season.
Residents in affected communities reportedly gathered to applaud officers as drug peddlers were removed from their neighbourhoods. NACOC officers used the opportunity to engage directly with residents, offering on-the-spot education on the dangers of drug abuse and its impact on public safety and community wellbeing.
NACOC said it remains committed to ensuring that the holiday period is marked by joy rather than tragedy and assured the public that similar operations will continue in the coming days and months to sustain security and protect lives across the country.