NACOC Intensifies Intelligence Gathering Over Cocaine Trade

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has intensified intelligence gathering and public engagement in the Upper West Region following the discovery of cocaine trading activities in the region.

The Upper West Regional Public Relations Representative of NACOC, Stephen Banguu Kobob, disclosed that the Commission’s intelligence operations have uncovered the trading of cocaine in the region, a development he said was previously unknown to the Commission.

Speaking on the increasing substance abuse situation in the Wa Municipality, Mr. Kobob said NACOC’s operations are largely intelligence-driven and depend on credible information from the public to identify and deal with illicit drug-related activities.

He explained that information gathered through intelligence helps the Commission to identify individuals and locations associated with the cultivation, distribution and use of narcotic substances.

“Initially, we were not aware that cocaine was being traded in the Upper West Region. However, after receiving information about the activity, we began gathering intelligence on the cocaine trade. Previously, we only knew of tramadol and other substances,” he said.

Mr. Kobob also expressed concern about the growing substance abuse situation in the Wa Municipality and said the Commission had intensified public education and stakeholder engagement as part of efforts to address the problem.

According to him, NACOC has been engaging traditional leaders and Assembly Members, particularly on measures to prevent the cultivation of cannabis during the rainy season.

He urged residents to support the Commission by providing timely and credible information on individuals suspected of engaging in cannabis cultivation and other illicit drug activities.

Mr. Kobob stressed that public cooperation is essential to NACOC’s efforts, noting that intelligence from communities can help the Commission detect drug-related activities and take appropriate action.

He therefore encouraged residents to treat the fight against illicit drugs as a collective responsibility and to share relevant information with the appropriate authorities.

The latest disclosure on cocaine trading adds to concerns over the changing nature of the illicit drug trade in the Upper West Region and the need for stronger intelligence-led interventions to prevent the spread of narcotic substances.