Interior Minister calls for renewed national action against illicit drug threat

The Minister for the Interior, Mr. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has called for renewed national commitment and collective action to tackle the growing threat of illicit drugs and related criminal activities.

He warned that the drug trade continues to exploit vulnerable systems and target impressionable minds for profit.

Speaking at the commemoration of the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (World Drug Day) in Accra, the Minister said the consequences of drug abuse extended far beyond statistics on seizures and arrests, affecting families, communities and the nation’s social and economic development.

He stressed that as Ghana’s economy continued to expand and its global connections deepened, the country must remain vigilant in safeguarding the safety and moral integrity of society.

“The Ministry for the Interior remains firmly committed to strengthening the institutions entrusted with protecting our nation from the threats posed by illicit drugs and related criminal activities,” Mr. Mubarak stated.

The Minister commended the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) and its partner security agencies for their dedication and professionalism in combating drug-related offences across the country.

According to him, the efforts of these institutions have significantly strengthened Ghana’s capacity to detect, disrupt and deter illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse.

Mr. Mubarak also acknowledged the contributions of the Chief Justice for supporting the establishment of a special court to expedite the trial of narcotics-related offences.

He further applauded the Attorney-General for granting prosecutorial powers to NACOC, enabling the Commission to prosecute its own cases and improve the efficiency of drug-related prosecutions.

He called on families, educational institutions, religious bodies, traditional authorities and all stakeholders to work together to build communities where healthy lifestyles are promoted, personal responsibility is encouraged and the welfare of future generations is safeguarded.

Mr. Mubarak reaffirmed Government’s commitment to ensuring a safer, healthier and drug-free society through strengthened collaboration, sustained public education and enhanced institutional capacity to combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking.