Nkwanta South Police Intercept Massive Drug-Laden Container Truck: Over 7,000 Parcels of Suspected Marijuana Seized

The Nkwanta South Divisional Command of the Ghana Police Service has successfully intercepted a Volvo FM truck (registration GC 3522-09) carrying more than 7,000 parcels of dried leaves suspected to be marijuana, in one of the largest drug seizures recorded in the Oti Region in recent times.

The operation followed intelligence and a court order from the Jasikan Circuit Court authorising police to open and search the container truck, which had been abandoned by its occupants after an earlier failed attempt to evade inspection.

Timeline of Events

• December 29, 2025: The truck was first intercepted at the Bonakye barrier along the Eastern Corridor Road on suspicion of transporting illicit substances.
• Occupants allegedly attempted to obstruct the search and offered bribes to officers. When these efforts failed, the driver and accomplices fled into nearby bushland, abandoning the vehicle.
• Police secured a court warrant to open the container.
• The search was conducted on February 24, 2026, in the presence of multiple agencies: Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Ghana National Fire Service, National Ambulance Service, and military personnel.

Seizure Details Chief Superintendent Michael Kwabena Asiedu, Nkwanta South Divisional Police Commander, confirmed that officers discovered numerous sacks containing compressed parcels of suspected marijuana. The total exceeded 7,000 parcels.

Oti Regional Narcotics Control Commander Jeffen Siberi, who was present during the operation, estimated the street value of the consignment at more than GH¢14 million, highlighting the scale of the attempted trafficking.

Ongoing Investigation Investigations are actively underway to trace and arrest the driver, accomplices, and the registered owner of the truck. The seized exhibits have been secured for forensic testing and further analysis. Police have appealed to the public for credible information that could assist in apprehending the suspects.

Official Reaction Chief Superintendent Asiedu issued a stern warning to drug traffickers attempting to use the Oti Region as a transit corridor: “Security agencies remain committed to intensifying operations to combat the illegal drug trade. We will not allow the Oti Region to become a safe haven for narcotics trafficking.”

Commander Siberi expressed grave concern over the rising trend of drug trafficking and marijuana use in the region, reaffirming close collaboration between NACOC, police, and other security outfits to dismantle trafficking networks.

This seizure underscores ongoing efforts by security agencies to curb the flow of narcotics through Ghana’s Eastern Corridor, a known transit route for drugs destined for neighbouring countries and beyond. Authorities have reiterated their resolve to maintain vigilance and enforce zero tolerance for drug-related crimes in the area.