Police seize 700 parcels of cannabis from fake ambulance in Accra

The Accra Regional Police Command has arrested a 39-year-old man, Kwame Mananyi Tuanda, for allegedly using a private ambulance to traffic large quantities of cannabis.

The arrest took place on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, after an extended period of surveillance by police officers. The suspect was apprehended in front of the Jamboree Drinking Spot at Labadi Maami, where officers intercepted a Hyundai Hiace private ambulance, registered GX 277-20.

According to a police statement, Tuanda, who claimed ownership of both the vehicle and its contents, was standing beside the ambulance when it was stopped. A subsequent search uncovered several sacks containing dried leaves, later identified as cannabis.

In total, police recovered 700 parcels and 473 wrappers of the suspected narcotics. Preliminary investigations revealed that the ambulance had been loaded with the drugs in Kpando, Volta North Region, and was en route to Accra for distribution. Tuanda admitted to his involvement in the drug trade since last year.

Further inquiries revealed that the suspect had originally bought the vehicle as a regular car before modifying it by adding a siren and branding it as an ambulance. Before using the Hyundai Hiace, he had allegedly operated a Toyota Highlander for the same illicit activities, which included both transporting drugs and deceased bodies.

The ambulance has been impounded, and the seized items are being sent to the Police Forensic Science Laboratory for further analysis. Tuanda is currently in police custody and will be processed for court as investigations continue.

The Accra Regional Police Command has issued a strong warning against the abuse of legitimate service vehicles for criminal activities and reiterated its commitment to cracking down on drug trafficking in the region.