Tamale, – The Northern Regional Police Command has intensified its fight against illicit drug trafficking and related crimes, arresting 217 suspects in the past month under a special operation code-named “Red Maria.”
The operation, led by the Regional Special Operations Team, was introduced to sustain gains from earlier national security interventions and curb rising drug abuse in the Tamale Metropolis and surrounding areas.
A statement signed by DCOP Wisdom Lavoe, Northern Regional Police Commander, said intelligence-led swoops were conducted in identified hotspots including Aboabo, Savelugu, Nanton, Nyankpala, Taxi Rank and Nobisco Forest.
The exercises led to arrests involving possession and distribution of substances such as tramadol and Indian hemp, as well as individuals engaged in prostitution and unlawful assembly.
According to the Police, all 217 suspects were processed for court, with 40 already convicted and handed various fines and custodial sentences. Fines imposed ranged from GH¢2,400 to GH¢120,000, while prison terms ranged between 15 months and 15 years.
The Command said 32 of those convicted had paid their fines, while eight were serving jail terms. Another 31 suspects remain on remand, with the rest granted bail pending trial.
The Police reported that GH¢72,000 had so far been collected in fines through court convictions linked to the operation.
The Command commended the Red Maria Team for their professionalism and acknowledged strong support from traditional leaders, civil society groups, opinion leaders and political stakeholders, including the Overlord of Dagbon, the Yaa Naa.
It also praised members of the public for assisting law enforcement, citing the arrest of a suspected drug peddler by residents of Ward K in Tamale, who handed him over to police.
The Northern Regional Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the crackdown and urged continued public cooperation in the fight against crime.
GHBUSS
08 April 2026
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