A major criminal network suspected of trafficking illegal drugs has been exposed in the Ashanti Region after a failed attempt to bribe police officers with GH¢50,000. The incident, which occurred at the Tweapease Police Barrier, has led to the arrest of several suspects and the seizure of a large quantity of controlled substances, including Tramadol.
According to official reports from the Ghana Police Service, the syndicate was intercepted during a routine security operation conducted by officers from the Ashanti South Police Command. The operation was part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on the trafficking of illicit drugs and the growing influence of organized crime networks across the region.
Police sources disclosed that officers stopped a suspicious vehicle during a routine checkpoint inspection at Tweapease. Upon searching the vehicle, officers discovered a significant quantity of suspected Tramadol and other pharmaceutical substances believed to be intended for illegal distribution. The discovery immediately raised red flags, prompting further investigation.
In a desperate attempt to avoid arrest and seizure of the drugs, members of the syndicate allegedly offered the officers a bribe of GH¢50,000. The bribe was reportedly intended to secure their release and allow the consignment to pass through the checkpoint without further scrutiny. However, the officers rejected the offer and proceeded with the arrest of the suspects, demonstrating what police authorities have described as professionalism, integrity, and commitment to duty.
Following the failed bribery attempt, additional suspects connected to the syndicate were apprehended, and further investigations were launched to identify other members of the criminal network. Security sources say the group is believed to be part of a wider drug distribution chain operating across parts of the Ashanti Region and possibly beyond.
The police have since intensified intelligence-led operations in surrounding areas to dismantle the network completely and prevent future drug trafficking activities. Law enforcement officials confirmed that investigations are ongoing, and more arrests are expected as authorities trace supply routes and financial links connected to the syndicate.
In a statement, the Ghana Police Service commended the officers involved in the operation for their integrity and professionalism, noting that rejecting such a substantial bribe reflects a strong commitment to public service and national security. The police also reaffirmed their zero-tolerance stance on corruption within the service and criminal activity in general.
Authorities further warned individuals and criminal groups involved in drug trafficking and bribery that security agencies are strengthening surveillance, intelligence gathering, and checkpoint operations nationwide. The police emphasized that attempts to compromise officers through bribery will be met with stricter legal action.
Community leaders and residents in the area have welcomed the arrests, expressing concern over the growing circulation of illicit drugs, particularly among young people. Many believe the successful interception at Tweapease sends a strong message to criminal networks that law enforcement agencies are actively working to disrupt illegal drug trade routes.
The suspects are currently in police custody and are expected to be processed for court as investigations continue. Meanwhile, security agencies have assured the public of their commitment to protecting communities from the dangers of drug abuse, organized crime, and corruption.
This latest operation adds to a series of recent efforts by law enforcement to combat drug trafficking in Ghana, highlighting a renewed push to strengthen border controls, internal security checkpoints, and intelligence coordination across regions.
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Ashanti South Regional Police Commander, DCOP Joseph Hammond Nyaaba, has announced the interception of 257 packs of tramadol and 58 packs of tapentadol on the Obuasi–Dunkwa highway.
Four suspects were arrested after allegedly attempting to bribe officers with GH¢50,000. pic.twitter.com/wTDVhAl54y
— ChannelOne TV (@Channel1TVGHA) February 16, 2026
Source: Thepressradio.com
