NACOC Swoops On Cape Coast Drug Hotspots, Arrests 10 In Major Crackdown

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has arrested 10 suspected drug offenders in a coordinated swoop across several drug hotspots in Cape Coast, as part of intensified efforts to dismantle illicit drug networks in the Central Region.

The intelligence-led operation, carried out on Tuesday, targeted known areas of drug trafficking and abuse including *Pedu, Victoria Road, the University of Cape Coast (UCC) environs, Downtown, and other strategic locations* across the metropolis.

According to NACOC, the exercise forms part of its ongoing mandate to combat the illicit drug trade, protect public health, and enhance safety within communities.

Simultaneous Raids Across Cape Coast

Officers moved in simultaneously during the early hours of the operation, raiding multiple locations identified through months of surveillance and community intelligence.

The Commission said the simultaneous approach was aimed at preventing suspects from escaping and disrupting supply chains within the city.

At the end of the exercise, *10 suspects, both male and female aged between 24 and 55 years*, were arrested.

Items believed to be connected to illegal narcotics activities were also retrieved from the various locations. NACOC officials said the exhibits have been secured and will undergo further forensic examination as part of ongoing investigations.

“The operation was targeted, intelligence-driven, and executed to minimize disruption to law-abiding residents while maximizing impact on criminal networks,” a NACOC source stated.

Commitment to Dismantle Drug Networks

Speaking after the operation, NACOC officials reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to reducing the availability and abuse of illicit substances in Ghanaian communities.

They noted that Cape Coast, like other urban centers, has seen growing concerns over drug abuse, particularly among youth and in areas close to tertiary institutions.

“This operation underscores NACOC’s resolve to dismantle drug networks and cut off the supply routes that fuel addiction and crime in our communities,” an official said. “We will not relent until these hotspots are cleaned up.”

The suspects are currently in custody and are expected to assist investigators with further information. They will be processed in accordance with the law and arraigned before court upon completion of investigations.

Public Urged to Support the Fight

The Commission has also called on residents of Cape Coast and the Central Region at large to support the fight against narcotics by providing credible information on suspicious activities.

NACOC emphasized that community cooperation remains critical to identifying dealers, users, and storage points that may not be easily detected through formal surveillance.

“We encourage the public to speak up. Drug abuse destroys families, ruins futures, and fuels other crimes. Your information can save lives,” the Commission stated.

Officials assured that all information provided will be treated with confidentiality.

Broader Context

The Cape Coast operation is among several nationwide interventions NACOC has embarked on this year to clamp down on drug trafficking and abuse. The Commission has in recent months increased raids, public education, and collaboration with other security agencies as part of a broader strategy to address Ghana’s drug problem.

Health and security experts have consistently warned that the proliferation of illicit drugs contributes to mental health issues, armed robbery, and other social vices, especially in areas with high student populations.

With the latest arrests, NACOC says it will sustain pressure on dealers while also scaling up rehabilitation and sensitization programs aimed at prevention.

The Commission reiterated that the fight against drugs is not just a law enforcement issue but a shared responsibility requiring the involvement of parents, schools, traditional authorities, and community leaders.