The IGP Special Operations Team has arrested nineteen individuals in the Ashanti Region for their alleged involvement in the sale of hard drugs.
The arrests were made in the Alaba and Thinker areas in Manhyia South, which are known hotspots for illicit drug peddling and substance abuse.
In an intelligence-led operation led by DSP Bawah Abdul Jalil and ASP Samuel Mustapha Abenzuo, a female shop operator was apprehended. A search of her premises resulted in the seizure of quantities of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp.
Eighteen additional suspects were also arrested, bringing the total number to nineteen. Items retrieved from these individuals included dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp, white substances suspected to be heroin or cocaine, opioids, and other paraphernalia commonly used to facilitate drug consumption.
The arrests follow a routine patrol by the Special Operations Team aimed at dismantling criminal networks within the Kumasi metropolis. The operation targeted robbery, theft, rape, violent attacks on commuters and other road users, drug peddling and abuse, as well as the sale and possession of illegal firearms and ammunition.
A total of 111 personnel were deployed for the exercise, supported by ten service vehicles, including a Black Maria.
The suspects are currently in detention at the Suntreso Police District Headquarters pending further investigation, while the seized exhibits have been handed over to authorized investigative units for forensic analysis.
READ ALSO:
111 IGP Special Operations Team deployed to combat crime in Kumasi
Asiedu Nketia urges NDC members to retain hardworking executives in internal elections
