Eleven individuals arrested in a recent police raid on narcotics trafficking in Tamale have been arraigned in court on Monday, March 18, facing charges of using and possessing illicit substances.

The suspects, detained by the Regional Counter Terrorism Unit's Special Operations Team, known as "Red Maria," were charged with offences including unauthorised use and possession of narcotics and restricted drugs.

At the Tamale Circuit Court presided over by Judge Francis Asobayire, five defendants pleaded not guilty and were granted bail, while two others admitted guilt and paid fines to avoid prison time.

Agyei Abraham, 25, was fined 250 penalty units, equivalent to GH¢3,000 (approximately $250), for possessing narcotics without authorisation. Haruna Abuabkari, 30, received a fine of 200 penalty units, or GH¢2,400, for a similar offence.

Six other defendants were remanded in custody, with their cases adjourned to April 7 and March 24, respectively.

The police said they are committed to disrupting the flow of illicit substances in our communities in the Northern Region.

The statement said these arrests and convictions demonstrate the police's resolve to hold perpetrators accountable.

The operation is part of ongoing efforts by Ghana's Northern Regional Police Command to combat narcotics trafficking and related crimes.