The Ghana Police Service in the Northern Region has arrested 112 suspects during a series of operations targeting drug peddling, drug use and prostitution.

The Northern Regional Police Commander, Wisdom Lavoe, disclosed this while addressing the media in Tamale.

According to him, 55 of the suspects have already been put before court, while 57 others remain under investigation.

“Nine of the suspects have been convicted, with five sentenced while four sentences have been deferred,” DCOP Lavoe said.

He further explained that 46 suspects are currently awaiting trial as police continue investigations into the alleged offences.

DCOP Lavoe also revealed that the Regional Command has established a special task force known as the Red Maria Team to replace the IGP Special Operations Team, which was recently recalled from the region.

“We want to assure the public that the Red Maria Team has come to stay, and we need cooperation from the general public to volunteer vital information on the hideouts of criminals,” he said.

During the operations, police also seized 41 motorbikes believed to have been used in criminal activities.

The raids targeted several locations suspected to be hideouts for criminals, including Aboabo Forest, Moonshine Hotel and Kumbungu Forest.

The police commander said the operations form part of intensified efforts to clamp down on crime and maintain law and order across the Northern Region.

He added that the police will soon visit several traditional palaces in the region to engage traditional authorities and reassure residents of the command’s commitment to improving security.

DCOP Lavoe also urged the public to support the police with timely and credible information to help sustain the ongoing fight against crime in the region.