Minister of State at the Presidency in charge of Special Presidential Initiatives, Dr Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo, has urged for immediate measures to close loopholes that facilitate drug trafficking through Ghana. He emphasized the need to safeguard the country's image, which could be tarnished by the actions of individuals involved in illicit drug trafficking. Dr Pelpuo made these remarks during an interview on JoyNews' The Pulse on September 30, 2026.
Dr Pelpuo stressed that authorities must investigate whether Ghana is increasingly being used as a transit point for narcotics. He expressed concern that the country should not be a hub for exporting dangerous drugs. The Minister stated that ongoing investigations and court proceedings should help uncover how narcotics enter the country and identify those responsible. He suggested that if the investigations do not yield sufficient results, an official investigation body should be established to probe into the matter.
Dr Pelpuo's comments come amid growing concerns over recent major narcotics seizures linked to Ghana. On September 10, 2026, 3.9 metric tonnes of cocaine were seized at France's Port of Dunkirk, while 320 kilogrammes of methamphetamine were intercepted by the Australian Border Force in June 2026. These incidents have sparked calls for a parliamentary inquiry into the matter. Dr Pelpuo's remarks highlight the need for a comprehensive approach to address the issue of drug trafficking through Ghana.
The Minister's concerns are further underscored by reports that Ghana is facing challenges in combating money laundering and organized crime. A recent report highlighted the shortage of trained investigators and prosecutors as a major hindrance to Ghana's fight against money laundering. Dr Pelpuo's call for urgent action to close gaps that facilitate drug trafficking is a timely intervention to prevent the country's reputation from being damaged.
Dr Pelpuo has been actively engaged in various initiatives aimed at promoting Ghana's development. Recently, he announced that Germany has committed $132m to Ghana for skills development and training university. This initiative is expected to enhance Ghana's human resource capacity and contribute to the country's economic growth. However, the issue of drug trafficking remains a major challenge that requires a comprehensive and coordinated approach.
The issue of drug trafficking in Ghana has sparked concerns about the potential involvement of political parties and real estate sector in the illicit trade. According to the Global Organised Crime Index, drug money allegedly finances Ghana's political parties and real estate sector. This has raised concerns about the need for greater transparency and accountability in these sectors.
The Speaker of Parliament has dismissed a motion for a parliamentary inquiry into the recent narcotics seizures. Dr Pelpuo has supported the Speaker's decision, arguing that the issue requires a comprehensive and professional investigation. The government's response to the issue of drug trafficking will be crucial in determining the country's ability to combat the menace and protect its reputation.
Key points
- Dr Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo calls for urgent action to close gaps that facilitate drug trafficking through Ghana.
- Recent major narcotics seizures have sparked concerns over Ghana's role in the global drug trade.
- The issue of drug trafficking has raised concerns about the potential involvement of political parties and real estate sector in the illicit trade.
