NACOC busts alleged drug syndicate in Accra; couple arrested with firearm and narcotics

In a significant victory against the illicit drug trade, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), in collaboration with the National Security’s Special Operations Department, has dismantled an alleged distribution network operating in the capital. The operatives arrested a 51-year-old man, Jibreel Hardi, and his 42-year-old wife, Abiba Fatawu, on Thursday, September 3, 2026, following an extensive intelligence-led surveillance operation .

The arrest occurred at approximately 11:00 am in Weija, a suburb in the Ga South Municipality of Greater Accra. Acting on sustained intelligence gathered over a long period by undercover operatives, a joint security team intercepted Hardi while he was allegedly en route to meet a prospective buyer . A subsequent search of his vehicle revealed large quantities of dried leaves wrapped in polythene, suspected to be cannabis (Indian hemp), alongside several packets of Tramadol .

Following the interception, authorities proceeded to the couple’s residence, where a further search uncovered additional quantities of the suspected narcotics. More alarmingly, the team retrieved a firearm loaded with 50 rounds of 9mm ammunition from the premises . Abiba Fatawu, who was present at the residence, was taken into custody for her alleged role as an accomplice and collaborator in the operation during the surveillance period .

Both suspects are currently in NACOC custody undergoing processing, and the seized exhibits are set to be submitted for forensic examination . The operation forms part of a broader national effort to curb the distribution of narcotics. Recent statistics from the Interior Ministry indicate that between January 2025 and July 2026, authorities have made 217 arrests and initiated 165 prosecutions, seizing over 8,500 kilograms of narcotics in the process .