The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has intensified behavioural detection operations at Kotoka International Airport (KIA) as part of renewed efforts to curb narcotics trafficking through Ghana’s main international gateway.

The exercise, spearheaded by NACOC’s Canine (K9) Unit in collaboration with its Enforcement Unit stationed at the airport, focused on screening both inbound and outbound passengers exhibiting behavioural indicators commonly associated with drug trafficking.

Officers deployed trained sniffer dogs, advanced scanning equipment and profiling techniques to monitor passenger movement, while ensuring minimal disruption to airport operations, NACOC said in a statement.

Although the operation focused on selected airlines, individuals identified as persons of interest were subjected to further scrutiny regardless of their airline or flight, underscoring what officials described as a non-discriminatory, intelligence-led approach.

Strategic searches were conducted at key locations within the airport enclave, including Aviance Ghana, a major ground-handling facility.

According to NACOC, the targeted interventions form part of a broader security strategy aimed at sealing operational loopholes frequently exploited by traffickers.

Beyond enforcement, officers used the exercise to sensitise passengers and airport staff to substance abuse, the dangers associated with drug trafficking and the legal consequences of narcotics-related offences.

The increased visibility of the K9 Unit was also intended to serve as a deterrent and to reinforce public confidence in the Commission’s operations.

NACOC reported that the operation resulted in the seizure of quantities of pethidine and morphine, both classified as controlled drugs under Ghanaian law.

Officials said the development highlights the effectiveness of intelligence-driven enforcement combined with canine-assisted searches.

The Commission indicated that similar operations will be rolled out across airports, seaports and land borders nationwide as part of sustained efforts to disrupt narcotics networks.