Over 10,800 Parcels Of Cannabis In Major Courts In Koforidua Destroyed By Sister Agencies

Koforidua, Eastern Region, June 3 – The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), through its Eastern Regional Command, together with other stakeholders have successfully destroyed a substantial quantity of cannabis exhibits following orders issued by the Koforidua Circuit Court, reaffirming the Commission's commitment to safeguarding public health, protecting communities, and preventing the re-circulation of illicit drugs into society.

The destruction exercise, conducted on Friday, 29 May 2026, at the Koforidua dumping site, was carried out pursuant to two Court Orders dated 05 May 2026 and in strict compliance with Section 108 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019).

The exhibits originated from two separate criminal cases before the Koforidua Circuit Court:

• Republic v. Ayertey Raphael Wilson & Another, involving one hundred and fifty (150) sacks of cannabis conveyed in two trucks.
• Republic v. Innocent Klokofi, involving three hundred and thirty-three (333) parcels of cannabis.

Prior to the destruction, a comprehensive inventory and verification exercise was undertaken by all stakeholders present. The verification process confirmed that each of the 150 sacks contained seventy (70) parcels of cannabis, amounting to 10,500 parcels. Together with the additional 333 parcels, a total of 10,833 parcels of cannabis were officially destroyed.

The exercise was conducted in a transparent and accountable manner under the supervision of the Court and in the presence of representatives from key stakeholder institutions, including the Narcotics Control Commission, Ghana Police Service, the Judiciary, the Attorney-General's Department, legal representatives of the accused persons, and members of the media.

The destruction was carried out by controlled burning, after which all authorized representatives endorsed the Certificate of Destruction, confirming that the exhibits had been disposed of in accordance with the law. Copies of the signed certificate were subsequently distributed to the relevant parties for their official records.

Speaking after the exercise, officials of the Eastern Regional Command emphasized that the destruction of narcotic exhibits forms an important component of Ghana's drug control strategy. By ensuring that seized narcotic substances are permanently removed from circulation, NACOC continues to protect communities from the devastating consequences of illicit drug trafficking and abuse.

The Commission further reiterated that drug trafficking remains a serious threat to national security, public safety, and socio-economic development. As the lead agency mandated to combat narcotic offences in Ghana, NACOC remains committed to strengthening intelligence-led operations, enhancing inter-agency collaboration, and promoting preventive education aimed at reducing both the supply and demand for illicit drugs.

NACOC wishes to express its appreciation to the Koforidua Circuit Court, the Ghana Police Service, the Attorney-General's Department, members of the media, and all stakeholders whose cooperation contributed to the successful execution of the exercise.

The Commission also encourages members of the public to continue supporting the national fight against illicit drugs by providing timely information on drug-related activities within their communities.

Together, we can build safer, healthier, and drug-free communities for all.