The Deputy Director of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Alexander Barimah Twum, has called on Ghanaians to support efforts to combat illicit drug trafficking by providing authorities with credible information on criminal activities.
He said public cooperation is essential to dismantling drug trafficking networks and addressing the growing challenge of drug abuse, particularly among young people.
Mr. Barimah Twum made the appeal while speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Monday, July 27, during a discussion on illicit drug use and trafficking in Ghana.
Public urged to report drug-related activities
According to the NACOC Deputy Director, some members of the public have chosen to assist drug traffickers instead of reporting them to law enforcement agencies.
He warned that such actions undermine efforts to combat the illicit drug trade and allow criminal networks to continue operating.
Mr. Barimah Twum encouraged citizens to support security agencies by volunteering timely and accurate information about individuals involved in drug trafficking and related offences.
“If citizens are able to open to us, if citizens are able to expose these evil doers, we can get to the root of this problem,” he said.
Collaboration with traffickers hampers investigations
Mr. Barimah Twum expressed concern that some people knowingly aid and protect illicit drug dealers, making investigations more difficult.
“But when we get citizens conniving with them (illicit drug dealers), when we get citizens aiding and abetting this crime, it makes the work very difficult,” he added.
He stressed that tackling the drug menace requires a collective effort involving law enforcement agencies, communities and the general public.
Call for collective action
The NACOC official said stronger collaboration between citizens and security agencies is necessary to reduce drug trafficking and its associated social and security challenges.
He urged Ghanaians to play an active role by reporting suspicious activities, saying public vigilance will strengthen the country’s efforts to combat illicit drugs and protect communities from their harmful effects.
