By: Murtala Issah
The Northern Regional Police Command has arrested seventy-seven (77) suspects in a special anti-drug operation carried out in the Tamale Metropolis and the Savelugu Municipality.
The exercise, conducted on Monday, March 23, 2026, at about 9:30 p.m., was led by the Command’s Special Operations Team, popularly known as “Red Maria.” The operation forms part of intensified efforts by the Ghana Police Service to clamp down on drug trafficking and related criminal activities in the region.
According to the Northern Regional Police Public Relations Officer, Chief Inspector Luckman Niendow Alhassan, the team first targeted Lamashegu, a known hotspot for drug-related activities, where one suspect was arrested.
“The operation is part of sustained intelligence-led efforts to rid our communities of drug peddling and its associated crimes,” he stated.
The team later moved to the Aboabo Market area, where another suspect was apprehended with a powdered substance suspected to be cocaine.
Acting on further intelligence, police proceeded to the NOBISCO area, where an alleged supplier was arrested, although no incriminating items were found during a search of his residence.
The operation was subsequently extended to Savelugu, where a major raid was carried out at a known drug peddling enclave, leading to the arrest of seventy-four (74) additional suspects.
Exhibits retrieved during the exercise included seven motorbikes, one Toyota Camry vehicle, quantities of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp, and ten sachets of Tramadol.
“All suspects are currently in custody assisting with investigations. They are being screened, and those found culpable will be put before the court,” Chief Inspector Alhassan added.
The Northern Regional Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring public safety and combating drug-related offences, while urging the public to support the police with timely and credible information.
“We encourage residents to volunteer information that will help us sustain this fight and keep our communities safe,” the PRO emphasized.
