The Ghana Police have intercepted a massive haul of suspected Indian hemp on Volta Lake, arresting three individuals believed to be involved in a wider drug trafficking network operating through the Eastern Region.
The dramatic arrest occurred near the Asuboni area, close to Kwahu Adawso, when marine units acting on intelligence intercepted a large engine boat loaded with narcotics. According to a statement released by the Eastern North Regional Police Command, officers discovered 5,950 compressed and some loose packages of suspected Indian hemp, concealed in 85 maxi sacks aboard the vessel.
The three arrested suspects have been identified as Abraham Agonu, Michael Akuaku, and Confidence Amenuveve. They were reportedly ferrying the cargo across Volta Lake when police moved in.
In addition to the drugs, the police retrieved a pump-action shotgun, two outboard motors, and the large engine boat used in the operation. Authorities believe the three were part of a larger syndicate led by a man known only as Felix, who is said to have escaped on a separate boat heading towards the Akate area.
“This was a significant interception. It highlights the increasing use of Ghana’s waterways by organised criminal networks. Our investigation points to a coordinated effort to move large quantities of illegal substances across the region.”
Police say a manhunt is underway for Felix and other accomplices suspected to be part of the trafficking ring. The operation, which appears well-funded and logistically sophisticated, underscores the growing challenges security agencies face in curbing the narcotics trade across Ghana’s inland routes.
Residents in nearby communities have expressed concern about the growing use of Volta Lake for criminal activities. “We see boats at night sometimes, but we don’t know what they carry,” said one local fisherman. “It’s scary knowing this kind of thing is happening on our waters.”
The Ghana Police Service is urging the public to assist with information that could lead to the arrest of Felix and any other individuals linked to the case. The seized substances will be sent for laboratory analysis as investigations continue.
This latest seizure adds to mounting evidence of narcotics trafficking through Ghana’s inland waterways, a trend law enforcement is now prioritising in its national drug control strategy.
