The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) of Ghana has initiated an investigation into the backgrounds of suspects involved in the recent seizure of €225 million worth of cocaine in France. According to Deputy Director-General Alexander Twum-Barimah, preliminary checks have not revealed any connection between the suspects and the presidential security detail. This development comes after New Tafo MP Vincent Ekow Assafuah claimed that one of the suspects, Musah Atta, was part of the security detail of President John Dramani Mahama and Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang.
NACOC's review of the suspects' backgrounds did not indicate any of them served as a presidential escort. The Commission is currently holding several suspects in custody, and their backgrounds are known to the authorities. Mr. Twum-Barimah made these statements on TV3's Hot Issues on Sunday, September 20. He emphasized that NACOC requires further details to verify the MP's assertion and aid in their investigations.
The MP's claim that Musah Atta was part of the security detail of both the President and Vice President has been dismissed by NACOC. According to established security protocols, separate protection teams are assigned to each principal, making it impossible for one officer to serve as a close escort to both leaders. Mr. Twum-Barimah stressed that such a scenario is not feasible under any circumstance.
The case involves four Ghanaians - Desmond Koranteng Curiel, Musah Atta, Kweku Okyere, and Jessica Hartog - who have been remanded over the alleged exportation of nearly four tonnes of cocaine from Ghana to France. They face charges of conspiracy to commit a crime and exportation of narcotic drugs. The suspects are expected to reappear in court on October 13.
The €225 million cocaine seizure was made in France from a container originating from Ghana. The massive quantity of cocaine was concealed in the container, which was intercepted by French authorities. This significant seizure has led to a thorough investigation, with NACOC working to uncover the details of the operation.
The MP's Facebook post on September 18 sparked controversy, raising questions about how a presidential security operative could be linked to a case of this magnitude. The post also questioned who granted access and who was watching the watchers. NACOC's response aims to clarify the situation and provide accurate information to the public.
The Commission's investigation is ongoing, and they are working to gather more information about the suspects and their alleged involvement in the cocaine exportation. As the case unfolds, authorities will continue to provide updates and clarify any misconceptions. The suspects will appear in court on October 13, and the outcome of the investigation will be closely watched by the public.
Key points
- NACOC has found no evidence that any of the suspects in the €225m cocaine case were part of the presidential security detail.
- The Commission requires further details to verify the MP's assertion and aid in their investigations.
- Separate protection teams are assigned to each principal, making it impossible for one officer to serve as a close escort to both the President and Vice President.
