Hot SourceThe Paramount Chief of the Aflao Traditional Area, Togbui Adzonugaga Amenya Fiti V, has voiced concern that Aflao and its neighbouring communities are becoming hotspots for drug trafficking and abuse, posing serious security challenges that require urgent action.
He noted that one of the significant issues undermining security in the area was the use of unapproved routes by individuals of varied backgrounds, many of whom were aiding and abetting criminal activities.
“It is sad to note that all manner of illicit drugs can be found in Aflao. This should be of great concern to us all, and I am happy that NACOC is reaching out to traditional leadership to find pragmatic measures to curb the growing problem of drug abuse and trafficking in and around Aflao,” the paramount chief stated.
The Director-General of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, paid a courtesy call on the Paramount Chief on Friday, during which concerns were expressed.
Brig Gen Mantey explained that the visit formed part of efforts to enlist the support of traditional leaders in the campaign against illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse among young people, both within the Aflao Traditional Area and across the country.
The NACOC boss was accompanied by his Deputy Director-General in charge of Enforcement, Control, and Elimination, Lawyer Alexander Twum-Berimah, and other senior officials.
Togbui Fiti also raised alarm over allegations that some personnel within certain security agencies were complicit in facilitating the trafficking of illicit drugs.
He urged the leadership of the security services to take decisive action to address the situation.
“Smuggling of drugs at the Aflao border is becoming alarming and must be tackled by NACOC, especially along the beaches,” he emphasised.
The paramount chief further called on NACOC to intensify its public education campaign, warning that drug abuse was eroding the energy and productivity of the youth. He advocated stronger collaboration between traditional authorities, the security services and state agencies to stem the tide of drug abuse and trafficking.
Brig. Gen. Mantey commended the paramount chief and his elders for the warm reception and appealed for their support in the national effort to curb the growing menace.
“NACOC is always ready to partner with and cooperate with all stakeholders to help fight illicit drug trafficking and abuse. Ghana needs its next generation to be healthy and active,” Brig Gen Mantey stated.
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