Ghana’s Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has thwarted several attempts to smuggle cannabis out of the country in recent days. Over three days, NACOC officers seized a total of 20.5 kilograms of cannabis hidden in parcels destined for overseas addresses.
The agency announced the successful operations in a statement posted on its Facebook page. The statement revealed that vigilant NACOC officers detected various attempts to conceal and transport illegal substances through postal and courier services in Accra, Ghana’s capital city.
Cannabis Parcels Headed for the UK
The first bust occurred on Monday, April 15th, 2024, when routine inspections led to the discovery of four packages containing cannabis disguised within wrapped boxes. These parcels were all labeled for delivery to addresses in the United Kingdom. NACOC officers became suspicious and upon further investigation, uncovered the presence of cannabis hidden inside.
The following days yielded similar results. On Tuesday, April 16th, a parcel containing over 5 kilograms of compressed cannabis cleverly disguised as 21 slabs was intercepted. This parcel was also bound for the UK. Over the next three days, NACOC seized three more packages containing cannabis, all intended for UK addresses.
Unusual Packaging Methods Used by Smugglers
The methods used by smugglers to conceal the cannabis varied. Officers discovered cannabis slabs hidden within latex foam, black soap packed with cannabis placed in a bathing pail, and even standard boxes with cleverly concealed compartments.
In all cases, following positive field tests confirming the presence of narcotics, the parcels were promptly transferred to NACOC headquarters for a more thorough investigation. The agency has launched a manhunt to apprehend those involved in these smuggling attempts.
The NACOC statement served as a reminder to the public about the legal repercussions of possessing or transporting narcotics. The agency emphasized that such activities are serious offenses punishable by law.
Source: Graphic Online
