UWR: Police Intercept Narcotic Drugs, Arrest Suspects

The Upper West Regional Police Command has intensified its operations against drug trafficking and abuse, resulting in the arrest of several suspects and the seizure of large quantities of suspected narcotic substances across the region.

According to a statement signed by the Regional Commander, DCOP Francis Yiribaare, the operations—carried out over the past four weeks—targeted multiple districts, including Eremon in the Lawra District, Nadowli barrier and Loho in the Nadowli-Kaleo District, Charia and Siriyiri in the Wa Municipality, and Hamile in the Lambussie District.

The Command reported the seizure of a total of 218 compressed slabs, 54 parcels, and eight other assorted consignments of substances suspected to be Indian hemp.

In one major operation on April 3, 2026, a police patrol team intercepted a Toyota Corolla taxi at Eremon in the Lawra District, leading to the discovery of 140 compressed slabs of the suspected substance. Two suspects, identified as Dennis Domoyel and Clovis Saame, were arrested.

In a separate incident on April 1, 2026, police officers at the Wa-Loho barrier retrieved 51 compressed slabs from a Royal VVIP bus traveling from Wa to Jirapa. Three suspects—Stephen Lomotey, Solomon King, and Urilius Tobopaalee—were subsequently arrested.

The statement noted that most of the intercepted substances were being transported northwards towards Hamile for delivery.

All suspects are currently undergoing various stages of investigation and prosecution, while the vehicles involved have been impounded.

The Regional Command also cautioned transport owners and unions against allowing their vehicles to be used for the transportation of illicit drugs, warning that such vehicles risk being confiscated by the state, in addition to the prosecution of their owners.

Reaffirming its commitment, the Police assured the public of continued efforts to combat drug-related crimes and ensure a safer and more secure environment in the region.