Drug traffickers will face full force of the law — Julius Debrah
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah has cautioned that government will deal decisively with individuals and criminal networks involved in drug trafficking, describing the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking as a matter of national importance.
According to him, while law enforcement remains critical, preventing young people from engaging in drug abuse must remain a shared responsibility among families, schools, communities and government.
The Chief of Staff made the remarks at the commemoration of the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Accra on Friday, June 26.
"Those who seek to enrich themselves through the trafficking of illicit drugs must understand that the full force of the law will be brought to bear against them. Ghana's future cannot and will not be held hostage by criminal networks," he said.
The Chief of Staff stressed that the most effective response to drug abuse is prevention, noting that efforts must focus on stopping young people from becoming involved with drugs in the first place.
He urged parents to engage their children, teachers to mentor students, and traditional and religious leaders to continue promoting values that strengthen communities.
Mr. Debrah also commended civil society organisations for their work in education, advocacy and rehabilitation and urged government institutions to continue creating opportunities for young people.
He said communities affected by drug abuse lose part of their strength and resilience, making the issue a national concern that requires collective action.
"We must be uncompromising in our response to criminal organizations that traffic illicit drugs, recruit vulnerable young people and profit from human suffering, but we must also recognize that many of those struggling with addiction are themselves victims," he stated.