The Northern Regional Police Command in Ghana has arrested five individuals and seized several items during an intelligence-led operation at the Tamale Aboabo Scrap Area on September 21, 2026. The operation, conducted by the Regional Special Operations Team, also known as RED MARIA, was based on credible intelligence about suspected drug-related and other criminal activities in the area. The suspects are Ibrahim Issahaku, 39; Mohamed John, 28; Mohamed Nawas, 25; Mohamed Osman Awal, 41; and Kwame Boateng, 28.
According to the police, Mohamed John and Mohamed Nawas are suspected drug users, while Kwame Boateng is suspected of dealing in narcotics. Mohamed Osman Awal, identified as the owner of the scrap business at the location, is alleged to have been harbouring drug peddlers on the premises. The police also suspect that the scrap business may be a front for their illicit activities. The operation was aimed at disrupting suspected drug trafficking and related criminal activities in the region.
A search of Ibrahim Issahaku’s residence led to the recovery of two foreign-made pistols, two rounds of 9mm ammunition, a parcel of suspected Indian hemp, and GH¢1,880 in cash. The police believe that the cash may be proceeds from the sale of narcotic drugs. The recovery of firearms and ammunition suggests that the suspects may have been involved in more serious crimes.
Police also recovered GH¢18,825 concealed inside Kwame Boateng’s motorcycle, which they suspect to be proceeds from the sale of narcotic drugs. Other items seized during the operation included 123 wraps of suspected Indian hemp, 12 sachets of 1mg Rohypnol, seven sachets of 250mg Tramadol, 111 wraps of suspected “ashes,” and three motorbikes. The variety of seized items suggests a large-scale operation.
The suspects and exhibits have since been handed over to the Regional Drug Law Enforcement Unit (RDLEU) for further investigation and necessary action. The RDLEU will likely conduct further investigations and possibly charge the suspects with various offenses related to drug trafficking and possession. The police are working to determine the source of the narcotics and the extent of the suspects’ operations.
The Northern Regional Police Command says it will continue to undertake intelligence-led operations to disrupt illicit drug trafficking, drug use, and other related criminal activities in the region. The command is committed to reducing the prevalence of drug-related crimes and ensuring public safety. The police are urging the public to provide information that may help in the fight against drug trafficking.
The arrest of the five suspects and the seizure of the items are part of the police’s efforts to tackle the drug menace in the region. The Ghana Police Service has been working to address the issue of drug trafficking and use, and the Northern Regional Police Command’s efforts are part of a broader strategy to reduce crime and improve public safety.
Key points
- Five persons arrested in Tamale for suspected drug-related activities.
- Police seize pistols, narcotics, and other items during the operation.
- The suspects and exhibits have been handed over to the Regional Drug Law Enforcement Unit for further investigation.
