The Community Focus Foundation Ghana (CFF-Ghana) is calling on government to launch an independent investigation and severely punish any state officials found complicit in a major methamphetamine trafficking case linked to Ghana.
The group’s statement follows the arrest of an alleged ringleader of a drug syndicate connected to the seizure of about 320kg of methamphetamine concealed in charcoal and intercepted in Australia.
In a release signed by Executive Director Mr. Richard Kasu, CFF-Ghana said the scale of the seizure has placed Ghana “under intense international scrutiny” and threatens the country’s reputation as a responsible member of the global community.
“We note with great concern that the magnitude of the drug seizure has once again placed Ghana under intense international scrutiny,” the Foundation stated.
CFF-Ghana commended the joint operation by Australian and Ghanaian law enforcement agencies that led to the interception, describing it as “a major breakthrough” in the fight against illicit drugs. However, it stressed that interception alone is not enough.
The Foundation outlined three key recommendations:
Independent probe and prosecution: Government should constitute an independent, transparent and comprehensive investigation into the shipment. Any officials within the security services, customs administration, port authorities or other state institutions found culpable should “face the full rigours of the law, regardless of their rank or political affiliation.”
2. Stronger surveillance at entry points: Invest in modern detection technologies and improve intelligence sharing to strengthen anti-narcotics surveillance at Ghana’s ports, airports and land borders, while enhancing institutional accountability.
Enhanced collaboration: Urgent need for stronger collaboration among the Narcotics Control Commission, the Ghana Police Service, national security agencies and international partners to dismantle transnational drug trafficking networks operating within the sub-region.
CFF-Ghana warned that Ghana must not be allowed to become a preferred transit point for international drug syndicates.
“In conclusion, we want to emphasize that Ghana cannot afford to become a preferred transit hub for international drug trafficking syndicates,” the statement said.
The Foundation also reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for transparency, accountability and stronger governance in the fight against narcotics and organized crime.
_For further information contact: Mr. Richard Kasu, Executive Director, CFF-Ghana | cffghana2018@gmail.com | 0248640364_
