The New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Ghana has alleged that recent drug-trafficking cases are connected to the return of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to power. NPP National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye, also known as Nana B, made these claims at a press conference on September 22. He accused the governing NDC of having a history of association with drug trafficking, citing past incidents during John Mahama's presidency.
Nana Boakye referenced the 2014 arrest of Ghanaian woman Nayele Ametefeh at London's Heathrow Airport, where she was found with 12.5 kilograms of cocaine. Ametefeh was later convicted and sentenced to eight years and eight months in prison. He claimed that recent drug-related cases show a similar pattern to those recorded during Mahama's previous administration, suggesting a resurgence of such activities.
On September 10, French customs authorities seized nearly 3.9 tonnes of cocaine at the port of Dunkirk, valued at approximately 225 million euros ($261 million). The drugs were concealed in a container carrying plastic waste from Ghana, partly destined for Antwerp. This seizure has triggered investigations in Ghana, with the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) announcing arrests linked to the shipment.
Four Ghanaians have been arraigned and remanded in connection with alleged conspiracy to export narcotic drugs and exportation of narcotic drugs. However, they deny the charges and are entitled to the presumption of innocence. NACOC reported that some suspects had been under surveillance for one to two years before their arrests, describing the operation as part of a longer intelligence-gathering effort.
The Ghanaian government has taken steps to address the issue, with President John Mahama ordering an inter-agency task force to develop a roadmap aimed at preventing drug trafficking through Ghana's borders. This followed an urgent meeting between President Mahama and security chiefs. The task force aims to enhance border security and prevent future incidents.
Nana Boakye's allegations have sparked debate, with the NPP suggesting that the NDC's return to power has led to a resurgence of drug trafficking activities. The party's claims have not been independently verified, and the NDC has not responded to the allegations. The incident has raised concerns about Ghana's role in international drug trafficking and the need for enhanced security measures.
The recent seizures and arrests highlight the ongoing challenges Ghana faces in combating drug trafficking. The country's strategic location makes it a key transit point for illicit substances. Efforts to address the issue, including the inter-agency task force, demonstrate the government's commitment to tackling the problem and enhancing border security.
Key points
- NPP National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye alleges recent drug-trafficking cases are linked to NDC's return to power.
- French customs authorities seized 3.9 tonnes of cocaine at the port of Dunkirk, linked to a shipment from Ghana.
- Ghanaian government orders inter-agency task force to develop a roadmap to prevent drug trafficking through Ghana's borders.
