The Centre for Democratic Movement (CDM) has urged Ghana's parliament to conduct a bipartisan inquiry into a series of major narcotics seizures linked to the country. The group stated that Ghana's international reputation and confidence in its security systems are at stake. This call follows the seizure of nearly 3.9 tonnes of cocaine at the Port of Dunkirk on September 7, 2026, with an estimated value of €225 million. The consignment was concealed in a container carrying plastic waste from Ghana.
The CDM noted that the Dunkirk seizure is part of a wider pattern of narcotics cases linked to Ghana since 2025. The group argued that these developments could have consequences for legitimate Ghanaian businesses and travellers if the country becomes increasingly associated with international drug trafficking. The organisation has therefore backed calls for an emergency sitting of Parliament and urged Speaker Alban Bagbin to establish a bipartisan committee of inquiry.
The proposed committee of inquiry will examine the 2018 decision that excluded the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) from routine physical container inspections. The committee will also investigate subsequent seizures and port-clearance procedures. President John Mahama has since directed NACOC to return to joint container inspections and given security agencies two weeks to harmonise their operations.
The CDM's call for a bipartisan probe is an effort to ensure accountability and transparency in the investigation of narcotics seizures linked to Ghana. The group emphasised that the country's name is on the line, and swift action is necessary to prevent further damage to its international reputation.
The Centre for Democratic Movement is not alone in its concerns about Ghana's security and reputation. Various stakeholders, including politicians and business leaders, have expressed worries about the potential consequences of Ghana's association with international drug trafficking. The country's public service is also facing challenges, including politicisation and a talent exodus.
In response to the concerns, Ghana's security agencies are taking steps to address the issue. President John Mahama has directed NACOC to work closely with other security agencies to prevent future seizures. The government is also seeking closer ties with international partners, including Norway, to enhance trade and security cooperation.
The bipartisan probe into the cocaine saga is expected to shed more light on the circumstances surrounding the narcotics seizures linked to Ghana. The inquiry will also provide an opportunity for stakeholders to propose solutions to prevent future occurrences and protect the country's reputation. The CDM's call for accountability and transparency is a step towards ensuring that Ghana's security systems are robust and effective.
Key points
- Centre for Democratic Movement calls for bipartisan parliamentary inquiry into narcotics seizures linked to Ghana
- Proposed committee of inquiry to examine 2018 decision excluding NACOC from routine physical container inspections
- Ghana's international reputation and confidence in its security systems at stake due to association with international drug trafficking
