The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) as part of its routine strategies to clamp down on illicit drug trafficking activities has truncated an illegal trade in narcotic-laced consumables following a meticulously coordinated intelligence-led operation that led to the arrest of ten (10) students of Koforidua Technical University for trafficking cannabis-infused drinks and ice creams.
The operation, conducted during the Students’ Representative Council (SRC) Hall Week celebrations which took place between Friday July 31 and Saturday August 1, 2026 resulted in the arrest of the suspected ringleader, 23-year-old Priscilla Tetteh, together with nine (9) other young men believed to be part of a network engaged in the production, distribution and sale of cannabis-infused products on campus.
The suspects were apprehended while actively trading the illicit products to students and patrons at the event.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the group had established an organized operation for the distribution of cannabis-infused drinks and ice creams, posing a significant threat to public health and the safety of young people.
The arrests mark the successful disruption of an emerging criminal enterprise exploiting social events and educational institutions to promote the abuse of narcotic substances among the youth.
NACOC reiterates that cannabis-infused food, beverages and other edible products containing controlled substances remain illegal. Individuals who manufacture, distribute, possess or sell such products will face the full rigours of the law.
The Commission expresses grave concern over the growing trend of young people commercializing narcotic substances under the guise of entertainment and entrepreneurship. Educational institutions must remain centres of learning, innovation and character development, not safe havens for drug trafficking and substance abuse.
NACOC commends the professionalism of its officers whose intelligence gathering, surveillance and swift operational response ensured the successful execution of the operation without incident.
The Commission assures the public that it will continue to intensify intelligence-led operations across the country to identify, dismantle and prosecute criminal networks involved in the trafficking of narcotic drugs and cannabis-infused products, particularly those targeting students and other vulnerable groups.
NACOC calls on parents, university authorities, student leaders and the general public to remain vigilant and collaborate with the Commission by reporting suspected drug-related activities as the fight against illicit drugs is a shared national responsibility, and together we can protect our campuses and communities from the devastating effects of substance abuse.
The suspects remain in NACOC custody and will be processed in accordance with the law.
