The Ashanti South Command of the Ghana Police Service has intercepted large quantities of prohibited drugs suspected to be smuggling along the Obuasi–Dunkwa highway, leading to the arrest of five suspects.  

The operation, carried out by officers stationed at the Tweapease Police barrier near Obuasi, resulted in the seizure of significant quantities of tramadol and tapentadol concealed in sealed boxes and transported on a commercial passenger bus bound for Ayamfuri in the central region.  

Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Cephas Arthur, who spoke to the media on behalf of the Command, disclosed that the interception occurred on Thursday, February 13, 2026, during routine security checks at the barrier.  

ACP Arthur said a thorough search conducted on a red OA Kia Grandbird bus uncovered two sealed brown boxes containing 257 packs of 50mg tramadol, 58 packs of 250mg tramadol—commonly referred to as “Red” and 58 packs of 225mg tapentadol, popularly known as “Royal.”  

He indicated that the quantities seized were suspected of being earmarked for unlawful distribution.  

The driver of the vehicle, identified as 37-year-old Joseph Nkrumah, was immediately arrested.  

During interrogation, he allegedly identified Perpetual, a native of Ayamfuri, as the consignment's purported owner.  

ACP Arthur further revealed that investigations took a dramatic turn the following day, February 14, 2026, when Perpetual, accompanied by three other women—Diana Mensah, 40; Abena Neyea, 43; and Nana Akua, 35 —reportedly appeared at the Tweapease barrier with GH¢50,000.

The money was allegedly intended to induce the officers to interfere with the ongoing investigation.  

However, the officers maintained their professional integrity and swiftly arrested the four women.   

The GH¢50,000 has since been retained as evidential material to support further investigations and prosecution.  

The Ashanti South Regional Police Command has reiterated its unwavering commitment to combating drug trafficking and other criminal activities within its jurisdiction.  

The Command cautioned individuals involved in illicit trade to desist, stressing that the region remained resolute and vigilant in safeguarding communities against the dangers posed by illegal drug circulation.