The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has arrested a woman widely described as a major figure in the local drug trade during an anti-narcotics operation in Budumburam and nearby communities in the Gomoa East Municipality of the Central Region.

The operation was carried out on Friday, January 16, as part of NACOC’s ongoing nationwide campaign against drug trafficking and drug abuse.

The exercise led to the seizure of several illicit substances and the arrest of individuals suspected of being involved in drug peddling.

Among those arrested was a 32-year-old woman identified as Rebecca Afia Naa Dei Kotei, popularly known as “Mother”. Opinion leaders in the area described her as “a key figure in the local drug trade who had previously evaded arrest”.

According to NACOC, the suspect had long been under surveillance.

“She has been on the radar of NACOC’s intelligence and surveillance team due to her activities in dealing with all manner of illicit drug trafficking act,” the Commission said.

NACOC also disclosed that it had received several reports from residents about criminal activities linked to some of the suspects arrested during the operation.

“The Commission has received several complaints of nefarious activities being perpetuated by most of the suspects who are currently in custody,” it noted.

During the raid, officers seized quantities of suspected cannabis, tramadol and other controlled substances, as well as items believed to be connected to drug peddling activities.

NACOC said it resolves to clamp down on drug-related crimes across the country.

“NACOC wishes to assure the general public of its commitment to ensure that Ghana becomes a drug-free nation,” the Commission said.