Police nab 53-year-old man over alleged drug-laced drinks in Ashanti Region

Security operatives in the Ashanti Region have arrested a 53-year-old man suspected of secretly mixing narcotic substances into both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages sold to the public.

The suspect, Adjei Owusu Afriyie, was picked up at Akyeremade in the Atwima Kwawoma District following an intelligence-driven operation carried out by the Drug Law Enforcement Unit (DLEU) of the Ashanti Regional Police Command.

The arrest followed a Thursday morning swoop on a local drinking spot known as De-Vicky’s, where officers reportedly uncovered evidence pointing to the adulteration of drinks with hard drugs.

According to a police statement, a thorough search of the pub, particularly a storeroom linked to the suspect, led to the discovery of seven barrels of locally distilled gin (akpeteshie), 56 bottles of branded Alomo bitters, one barrel of sobolo, and a gallon container of the popular drink. Preliminary checks suggested the beverages had been infused with narcotic substances.

Mr. Afriyie is currently in custody assisting investigators, while the seized items have been preserved for forensic testing to confirm their contents.

Police say further inquiries are underway to establish the full scope of the operation and determine whether other individuals were involved.

The Ashanti Regional Police Command has reiterated its resolve to clamp down on drug-related crimes and protect the public from substances that pose serious health risks.