The Canine (K9) Unit of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), in collaboration with its Enforcement Unit stationed at Kotoka International Airport (KIA), has intensified behavioural detection operations at the airport.

The move is aimed at reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to combating narcotics trafficking through its primary international gateway, spearheaded by the Commission.

The operation focused on identifying inbound and outbound passengers who displayed behavioural indicators commonly associated with drug trafficking. Officers deployed trained sniffer dogs, advanced scanning equipment, and profiling techniques to support the exercise.

The operation enabled officers to closely monitor passenger movements while ensuring minimal disruption to airport activities.

Although the exercise focused on selected airlines, individuals identified as persons of interest were subjected to further investigation regardless of the airline or flight. This, NACOC said, underscores its non-discriminatory, intelligence-driven approach.

The intelligence-led searches were conducted at strategic locations within the airport, including Aviance, a key ground-handling facility. These targeted checks formed part of a broader security strategy aimed at closing operational gaps often exploited by drug traffickers.

In addition to enforcement activities, officers used the opportunity to educate passengers and airport workers on substance abuse, the dangers of drug trafficking, and the legal consequences of narcotics-related offences.

The visibility of the K9 Unit was deliberately increased to deter potential traffickers and reinforce public confidence in NACOC’s operations.

Throughout the exercise, officers demonstrated professionalism, balancing firmness with respect for passenger rights and aviation security protocols. Searches were conducted using both canine (K9) detection and scanning systems to ensure thorough but efficient screening.

The operation led to the seizure of quantities of pethidine and morphine, both controlled substances under Ghana’s narcotics laws. The seizures highlight the effectiveness of intelligence-led enforcement and canine-assisted searches.

The exercise underscores NACOC’s resolve to strengthen surveillance at ports of entry and exit, disrupt transnational drug trafficking networks, and protect Ghana’s international image. Similar intelligence-driven operations will continue at airports, seaports, and land borders across the country.

NACOC has encouraged the public and industry stakeholders to cooperate with its officers as it intensifies efforts to prevent the use of Ghana’s transport hubs for illicit drug trafficking.