Ada: Suspected Cannabis Worth Over $1 Million Seized in Joint Navy-NACOC Operation
A joint security operation involving the Ghana Navy, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) and National Security has resulted in the seizure of approximately 4.7 tonnes of suspected cannabis valued at more than US$1 million at the Ada Estuary in the Greater Accra Region.
The operation, conducted on Thursday, November 5, 2026, led to the interception of two wooden boats carrying 117 sacks of substances suspected to be Indian hemp.
According to reports, the operation was intelligence-led and involved personnel from the Ghana Navy’s Riverine Command working alongside officers from NACOC and National Security.
The security team reportedly intercepted the two boats after receiving intelligence about the suspected transportation of narcotic substances through the Ada waterways.
Each of the 117 sacks was said to contain more than 80 parcels of dried leaves believed to be cannabis, bringing the estimated total weight of the consignment to between 4.7 and 4.8 tonnes.
The substances are estimated to have a street value exceeding US$1 million, making the seizure a significant operation in the country’s ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking.
However, the individuals operating the boats reportedly abandoned the vessels and fled after noticing the approaching security personnel.
No arrests had been made at the time of reporting, as the suspected traffickers managed to escape. Security agencies are expected to continue investigations to identify and apprehend those behind the consignment.
Preliminary intelligence suggested that the suspected narcotics were being transported out of Ghana, although the final destination and intended recipients had not been established.
Following the interception, the seized substances were handed over to NACOC for further investigations and forensic examination to determine their exact composition.
Naval Captain Festus Osei Brobbey, Director of Naval Operations at Naval Headquarters, said the Ghana Navy had deployed a riverine detachment to strengthen security along the Volta Lake and surrounding communities.
He explained that the deployment was part of broader efforts to improve surveillance and prevent criminal activities, including drug trafficking, along the country’s waterways.
He also emphasised the importance of intelligence gathering and cooperation with local communities in helping security agencies identify suspicious activities and respond effectively.
Meanwhile, Kenneth Kofi Kabu Kanor, the Ada East District Chief Executive and Chairman of the District Security Committee, commended the security agencies for the successful operation.
He urged residents to support the authorities and avoid activities that could turn the Volta Lake and its surrounding waterways into transit routes for illegal drugs.
The latest seizure highlights growing concerns about the use of Ghana’s waterways by suspected drug trafficking networks.
The Ada and Volta Lake corridor has attracted security attention because of its strategic location and connection to several coastal and inland communities.
The operation forms part of continuing efforts by Ghanaian security agencies to disrupt the movement of illicit substances, strengthen border and maritime security, and prevent the country from being used as a transit point for narcotics.
Although the suspects escaped during the operation, authorities are expected to pursue investigations to establish the ownership of the boats, trace those responsible and determine the intended destination of the suspected cannabis.
Source: Thepressradio.com
