The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) of Ghana has called for enhanced collaboration among security agencies operating at the Tema Harbour to prevent the port from being used as a transit point for narcotic drugs. This appeal was made by the Director-General of NACOC, Major-General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, during a working visit to key operational areas of the Tema Harbour on October 1, 2026. The visit aimed to assess current security measures and identify areas for improvement.
Major-General Mantey emphasized the need for closer collaboration and information-sharing among the various agencies responsible for port security. He stressed that no container should leave the port without the required clearance and authorization from NACOC and other relevant security agencies. The Director-General also cautioned against competition among agencies, insisting that national security must take precedence over institutional interests.
The working visit covered several areas, including the MPS Export and Import Scan, MPS Main Office, and the ACS Export Terminal. At the MPS Export and Import Scan, the delegation was briefed on the scanning process, including how container images are generated and forwarded to the Ghana Revenue Authority's Customs Division for interpretation. Major-General Mantey engaged officers on existing procedures and operational challenges, focusing on ways to strengthen the detection and interception of illicit consignments.
During the visit, Major-General Mantey interacted with the Chief Executive Officer of MPS, Mohammed Samara, who expressed concern over recent narcotic seizures abroad linked to Ghana. Mr. Samara assured the delegation of MPS's commitment to working with state institutions to strengthen security at the port. He also offered to create opportunities for NACOC and other security agencies to undertake relevant training and operate effectively within its scan rooms.
Major-General Mantey acknowledged the role of MPS as a private-sector partner in port operations but stressed that commercial considerations should not override national security and Ghana's international reputation. He assured MPS that NACOC would collaborate with the company to provide appropriate software and relevant training for its officers and other security agencies to improve their capacity to detect and prevent drug trafficking through the port.
The final stop was the ACS Export Terminal, where Major-General Mantey urged officers to remain vigilant, diligent, and professional in carrying out their duties. The working visit forms part of NACOC's broader efforts to strengthen inter-agency cooperation and tighten security measures at Ghana's ports amid heightened scrutiny of narcotics trafficking through the country.
NACOC has in recent months stressed the need for stronger intelligence-sharing and coordinated action to tackle increasingly sophisticated drug trafficking networks. The Commission's efforts aim to protect Ghana's international reputation and prevent the country from being exploited as a transit point for narcotic drugs. Key points include:
Key points
- Strengthening coordination among security agencies at Tema Harbour
- Enhancing information-sharing to prevent drug trafficking
- Providing training for officers to detect and prevent illicit consignments
