The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has arrested 10 students of Koforidua Technical University (KTU) for allegedly producing, distributing and selling cannabis-infused drinks and ice creams during the university’s Students’ Representative Council (SRC) Hall Week celebrations.
The intelligence-led operation, carried out between July 31 and August 1, disrupted what NACOC described as an organised network trafficking narcotic-laced consumables on campus.
The Commission said the suspects were arrested while allegedly selling the products to students and patrons attending the event.
Among those arrested was 23-year-old Priscilla Tetteh, whom investigators have identified as the suspected ringleader. The remaining nine suspects are believed to have been part of the distribution network.
Preliminary investigations, according to NACOC, suggest the group had established an organised operation for the production, distribution and sale of cannabis-infused beverages and ice creams, posing a threat to public health and the safety of young people.
The Commission said the arrests disrupted what it described as an emerging criminal enterprise exploiting social events and educational institutions to promote narcotic substance abuse among the youth.
NACOC reminded the public that cannabis-infused food, beverages and other edible products containing controlled substances remain illegal under Ghanaian law, warning that anyone who manufactures, possesses, distributes or sells such products risks prosecution.
The Commission also expressed concern over what it described as a growing trend of young people commercialising narcotic substances under the guise of entertainment and entrepreneurship, stressing that educational institutions must remain centres of learning rather than hubs for drug trafficking.
It commended its officers for their intelligence gathering, surveillance and swift operational response, which led to the successful operation without incident.
NACOC said it would intensify intelligence-led operations nationwide to identify and dismantle criminal networks involved in the trafficking of narcotic drugs and cannabis-infused products, particularly those targeting students and other vulnerable groups.
The Commission appealed to parents, university authorities, student leaders and the public to support the fight against illicit drugs by reporting suspected drug-related activities.
The suspects remain in NACOC custody and are expected to be processed in accordance with the law.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
