The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has destroyed quantities of illicit drugs and other illegal substances in the Savannah Region, following joint operations with the Ghana Police Service.

The substances were seized from individuals during targeted enforcement actions aimed at tackling the growing menace of drug abuse and trafficking.

As a result of the operations, the Damongo Circuit Court convicted six individuals, each receiving fines of no less than 500 penalty units.

Speaking to Channel One TV, Savannah Regional Minister Salisu Be-Awuribe said the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has intensified security measures in the region and reiterated that the use of illicit drugs remains strictly prohibited.

“This is just a part of the ongoing exercise that we have actually taken up very seriously. We are happy the court is giving these sanctions and asking for the destruction of these illicit substances,” he said.

Savannah Regional Commander of NACOC, Rashida Ewuntomah, said the Commission’s capacity to combat drug trafficking will improve with the establishment of district and municipal offices in the region.

“We are hoping that it will be more effective and stronger as we embark on these activities. We are hoping that with the presence of the officers in these districts, they will have firsthand information for us. Before that happens, we are trying our best. We are working hard to bring them to book,” she said.