In a remarkable achievement, the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) has seized a massive 3.3 tonnes (3,319.66 kg) of suspected cocaine, with a street value of approximately $350 million.
This major bust took place in the Central Region of Ghana and marks one of the largest narcotics seizures in the country’s history.
The illicit drugs were cleverly concealed in sacks hidden within heaps of sand in a tipper truck, which was en route to Accra from Cape Coast.
Despite the sophisticated attempt to evade detection, the sharp-eyed NIB operatives managed to uncover the cargo, ensuring a significant blow to the country’s narcotics trade.
The tipper truck, driven by 39-year-old Isaac Quaicoo, and his mate, 25-year-old Kenneth Cobbinah, a tertiary student, were intercepted at Pedu Junction in Cape Coast. Both individuals are now in custody and assisting the NIB with ongoing investigations.
Upon offloading the sand, authorities discovered 143 marked sacks weighing a total of 2,974 kg. Initial field tests by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) confirmed that the substance was cocaine.
Following further intelligence gathering, investigators were led to a suspect’s residence, where 13 additional sacks and one bag, totaling 345.07 kg, were discovered. Laboratory testing by NACOC and the Ghana Standards Authority confirmed that the seized substances were high-purity cocaine, ranging from 50 to 70 percent purity.
The NIB’s efforts have not only led to the seizure of this massive quantity of cocaine but also to the identification of other individuals involved in the narcotics operation. One key figure, Charles Hagan, is believed to have contracted the driver and his mate to transport the illicit drugs.
A follow-up search at the home of Francis Awortwi, a close associate of Hagan, uncovered more suspected cocaine, further cementing the scope of the drug trafficking network.
The suspects, Quaicoo and Cobbinah, are scheduled to appear in court on April 2, 2025, as investigations continue.
Meanwhile, the NIB is actively pursuing additional accomplices to ensure that all involved in this illegal operation are brought to justice.
This operation highlights the NIB’s commitment to combating drug trafficking and disrupting organized crime networks.
It also emphasizes the success of collaborative law enforcement efforts in the fight against narcotics smuggling.
