NACOB Declares War on Illegal Sale of Unprescribed Drugs in Ghana
The Narcotics Control Board (NACOB) has announced plans to intensify its crackdown on the illegal sale and distribution of unprescribed drugs across Ghana. This renewed effort comes in response to growing concerns over the increasing abuse of drugs, especially among the youth.
According to recent figures approximately 50,000 Ghanaians are reported to be abusing drugs with about 35,000 of them being students aged between 12 and 35 years. This disturbing trend has alarmed authorities and prompted urgent calls for action to address the root causes of substance abuse and curb its devastating effects on individuals and society.
In a strong message delivered during a press engagement, NACOB’s Deputy Director-General, Twum Barima, issued a stern warning to pharmacists, chemical sellers, and traders who engage in the illegal sale of unprescribed medications. He emphasized that those found culpable will face severe consequences without the possibility of bail.
Let’s do genuine trade; trade that is permitted by law, he stated. Don’t get involved in anything illegal. The law is no respecter of persons. It doesn’t matter your status — whether you’re a chief, a doctor or a lawyer. If you’re caught, you will face the full force of the law.
He singled out certain dangerous substances such as Red 225 and Red 50 cautioning traders who secretly deal in such drugs to desist immediately. “You may think it’s hidden in your bag, but we will know, and we will come after you. Don’t think you can make a phone call and get out. When we arrest you, you are going to face the law,” he warned.
The Interior Minister, Hon. Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka also weighed in on the issue, urging religious and community leaders to play a key role in the fight against drug abuse. He expressed concern over the shift from traditional narcotics to the abuse of prescription medications, stating, People are now abusing medications that are supposed to be helpful. This is a threat to our national development, and everyone has a role to play.
NACOB’s operations are guided by Section 37 (1) and (2) of the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), which criminalizes the unlawful possession use, or trafficking of narcotic drugs. The law places the burden of proof on the accused to demonstrate lawful authority, and violations carry serious penalties, including imprisonment.
The Board is also urging members of the public to stay away from unapproved substances and report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities. The best advice anyone can give you is to refrain from it. These drugs only lead to the destruction of your life, said Twum Barima.
The illegal sale and misuse of unprescribed drugs have been linked to numerous health complications including overdoses, mental health issues, and in some cases, death. NACOB’s renewed campaign is part of a broader national effort to protect public health and safeguard the future of Ghana’s youth.
As enforcement efforts intensify, NACOB is calling on all stakeholders — including parents, educators, pharmacists, community leaders and law enforcement agencies — to collaborate in ending this growing menace.