Ten arrested over alleged cannabis sales at Koforidua Technical University

Ten people have been arrested over the alleged sale of cannabis and cannabis-infused drinks during celebrations on the Koforidua Technical University (KTU) campus in the New Juaben South Municipality.

The suspects – nine men and one woman – were detained by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) on the night of Friday, July 8, as the university held its Students’ Representative Council (SRC) Week events.

NACOC said the arrests followed intelligence gathered by its operatives about suspected drug-related activity taking place on campus. The operation was carried out as part of an intelligence-led effort to identify those allegedly involved in distributing cannabis and products containing the narcotic.

A quantity of suspected cannabis was seized during the operation, along with several drinks and other consumable products believed to have been infused with the substance.

The exhibits reportedly included wraps of suspected cannabis, cups of “abele” ice cream, bottles of pineapple juice, sobolo drinks, fresh palm wine and other beverages.

Preliminary field tests conducted on the seized items indicated the presence of cannabis, according to NACOC. The findings have strengthened the suspicion that the products were being supplied to people attending the SRC Week celebrations.

The ten arrested individuals remain with NACOC and are assisting with investigations. The Commission is continuing to examine the alleged operation in an effort to establish its full extent and determine whether other people were involved in the suspected illegal trade.

NACOC has not disclosed the identities of the suspects or stated whether charges have been brought against them.

The Commission said it remained committed to protecting educational institutions from activities linked to illegal drugs. It also called on students and members of the public to stay alert and report any suspicious behaviour to the relevant authorities.

The arrests came after information received by NACOC pointed to suspected cannabis-related activity during the university’s celebrations. Officers then acted on that intelligence, resulting in the seizure of both suspected cannabis and a range of drinks and food products.

The preliminary test results relate to the seized exhibits and form part of the ongoing investigation. Further inquiries are expected to establish how the products were obtained, who may have been responsible for distributing them and whether additional people were connected to the alleged activity.

NACOC’s appeal for vigilance applies to students, university staff, visitors and other members of the public who may witness suspicious conduct on or around educational campuses. The Commission said reports should be directed to the appropriate authorities so that suspected drug-related activity can be investigated.