The Divisional Police Command in Nkwanta South Municipality has intercepted a suspected drug-laden container truck, recovering more than 7,000 parcels of dried leaves believed to be marijuana, following a court-ordered search.

The operation, carried out under a warrant from the Jasikan Circuit Court, stems from an earlier interception on December 29, 2025, at the Bonakye barrier along the Eastern Corridor road. Police say a Volvo FM truck with registration number GC 3522-09 was stopped on suspicion of transporting illicit substances.

According to authorities, the occupants resisted the lawful search and allegedly attempted to bribe officers. When their efforts failed, the driver and his associates reportedly abandoned the vehicle and fled into nearby bushland.

Speaking to the media, Divisional Police Commander Chief Superintendent Michael Kwabena Asiedu said investigations are ongoing. “We have secured a court warrant to open and search the vehicle. Officers found several bales suspected to contain marijuana, amounting to over 7,000 parcels. We are working to arrest both the driver and the vehicle owner,” he said.

The search was conducted in the presence of the Ghana Police Service, the Narcotics Control Unit, the Ghana National Fire Service, the Ambulance Service, the military, and other security agencies. The recovered parcels are expected to be transferred for testing and further investigation.

Chief Superintendent Asiedu cautioned drug traffickers against using the Oti Region as a smuggling route, saying law enforcement will intensify efforts to disrupt the trade.

Also present, Oti Regional Narcotics Control Commander Jeffen Siberi, expressed concern over increasing marijuana use and other drug-related activities in the area. She revealed that the quantity recovered could yield over GH¢14 million on the market and stressed that her unit will continue close collaboration with the police to clamp down on the menace.

“The region remains on high alert. We are committed to working with the Ghana Police to tackle the rising cases of drug trafficking,” she added.