In commemoration of International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Savannah Regional Police Command, in partnership with the Narcotics Control Commission and the Regional Security Council, executed two separate operations in the Damongo Municipality, Savannah Region, on June 25th and 26th, 2025, culminating in the arrest of 16 suspects, including a nursing mother, from various Ghettos.
The 16 suspects arrested, consisting of two females, one of whom is a nursing mother, and 14 males, of which six are peddlers, are currently in police custody assisting with investigations.
During a media briefing, Hon. Salisu Be-Awuribe, Chairman of the Savannah Regional Security Council and Savannah Regional Minister, announced that the initial operation took place on the night of June 25th, yielding the arrest of 11 suspects, and was followed by a second operation on the afternoon of June 26th, 2025, resulting in the arrest of 5 more suspects.
According to the minister, the operations were executed in various "ghettos," including High Tension, Arizon Street, Abingakra, and the Damongo Royal Cemetery. The suspects, which include notable drug addicts and peddlers in the Municipality, are expected to be arraigned before court after undergoing successful screening.
The minister stressed that the operation combines punitive measures with sensitization campaigns to raise awareness and prevent innocent individuals, especially the youth, From being drawn into the drug trade.
"This is not a one-time event. The exercise will continue across all parts of the region and not limited to the Damongo Municipality.
The objective is not to punish but to reform and educate," he stated.
He used the opportunity to call on parents to play a more active role in guiding their children, urging them to go beyond providing basic needs and instill discipline and sound moral values.
"To those involved in the drug trade, the earlier you stop, the better. Otherwise, there will be no peace for you in the Savannah Region," he warned.
The Minister also praised the security services for their commitment and dedication, noting that they carried out the operation without external resources, relying on their own mobilization efforts.
Meanwhile, the Overlord of the Gonja Kingdom, Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, has thrown his support behind the initiative, which is expected to intensify in the coming days.
The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed annually on June 26, serves as a call to action for governments, organizations, and individuals to intensify efforts to combat drug abuse, prevent substance use disorders, and disrupt illicit drug trafficking networks, with the World Health Organization advocating for a radical rethinking of global drug policies, emphasizing the need for a shift from punitive approaches to more effective and humane solutions.
The theme for World Drug Day 2025, "The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention. Break the Cycle," highlights the need for comprehensive strategies to address the health, social, and economic consequences of drug abuse.
Zion Abdul-Rauf
