The National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) of Ghana has successfully intercepted a substantial cocaine shipment valued at over $350 million, marking a significant blow to narcotics trafficking in the region. On March 4, 2025, operatives acting on intelligence reports uncovered 143 sacks of cocaine, concealed beneath a load of sand in a tipper truck traveling from Takoradi in the Western Region to Accra.
The seizure, which took place at Pedu Junction in Cape Coast, followed a meticulous operation led by the NIB. The truck, carrying two occupants, was halted after surveillance indicated suspicious activity. Subsequent field testing by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) confirmed that the substance in question was raw cocaine.
Initial investigations revealed that the total weight of the intercepted drugs was 2,974 kilograms. A follow-up operation on March 8 resulted in further discoveries: authorities uncovered an additional 345 kilograms of suspected cocaine at a residence linked to one of the suspects.
Laboratory analysis from both NACOC and the Ghana Standards Authority confirmed that the full consignment weighed 3,319.68 kilograms, with purity levels ranging from 50% to 70%. The cocaine is believed to have been smuggled into the country via sea routes, most likely aboard fishing vessels.
The authorities have identified two suspects, Isaac Quaicoe and Kenneth Cobbinah, both of whom have been remanded into custody. They are scheduled to appear in court on April 2, 2025. NIB officials are continuing to track down additional individuals believed to be connected to the operation.
Source:TheDotNews