Police intercept suspected illicit drugs on Obuasi–Ayamfuri bus, four arrested
Police in the Ashanti South Region have intercepted a large consignment of suspected illicit drugs during an intelligence-led operation in the Obuasi area.
According to a statement issued by the Regional Police Command, officers from the Obuasi Divisional Command seized 257 packets of assorted prohibited substances on February 13.
The consignment included 58 packets of tramadol (250mg), 58 packets of tramadol (225mg), commonly referred to as Royal, and 141 packets of a substance known as “Red”.
Police said the drugs were being transported on a red Kia Granbird bus travelling from Obuasi to Ayamfuri when the vehicle was intercepted at a police barrier near Dunkwa-on-Offin. A search of the bus uncovered two sealed brown boxes containing the suspected drugs.
The driver, Joseph Nkrumah, 37, a resident of Perpetual and a native of Ayanfuri, was arrested at the scene. During interrogation, he reportedly identified one Perpetual as the owner of the consignment.
Police said further investigations on February 14 led to the arrest of the alleged owner and three other suspects — Diana Mensah, 40; Abena Neya, 43; and Nana Akua, 35. According to investigators, the suspects had travelled to Ayanfuri with GH¢50,000 to purchase the drugs. The cash was seized as part of the evidence.
All four suspects are expected to appear before court on Monday, February 16, where they are likely to face charges under Section 851 of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), which prohibits the sale of drugs, herbal medicinal products, cosmetics, medical devices and other household chemical substances without authorisation.
The Ashanti South Regional Police Command reiterated its warning to individuals involved in criminal activities to desist, stressing that the region will remain hostile terrain for those seeking to engage in unlawful trade.
