Operation White Ember: NACOC raids drug hubs in Eastern, Greater Accra

The Narcotics Control Commission has arrested 72 suspects after intelligence-led raids across the Eastern and Greater Accra regions as part of a festive-season crackdown dubbed Operation White Ember.

The operations targeted several known drug hubs stretching from Mamfe and Tutu in the Eastern Region to Madina Redco Flats, Zongo Junction and the railway slums of Airport City in the Greater Accra Region.

The coordinated raids formed part of NACOC’s intensified efforts to curb drug trafficking and abuse during the Christmas period.

According to the Commission, the exercise was aimed at disrupting organised drug activity in areas identified through intelligence gathering.

The raids led to the dismantling of multiple drug dens and the seizure of various narcotic substances.

On Boxing Day, the operation was extended to Tema Community One and Teshie Nungua. NACOC said dozens of suspects were arrested during this phase, with additional narcotic substances retrieved.

The Boxing Day operations were carried out with the support of NACOC K9 units, which assisted officers in detecting concealed drugs and tracking suspects.

As part of the broader security sweep under Operation White Ember, NACOC also deployed patrols to shopping malls and beaches across the capital.

These patrols were intended to curb drug activity in public spaces that typically experience increased human traffic during the Christmas festivities.

Beyond the arrests, the Commission emphasised the wider social impact of the operation. NACOC said the drugs seized, including ecstasy, methamphetamine and cannabis-laced alcoholic beverages, represented thousands of lives saved from the brink of addiction during the festive season.

The Commission explained that the operation reflects its commitment to ensuring that Christmas remains a season of joy rather than tragedy.

It noted that its focus extended beyond drug dens to public spaces, residential communities, beaches and informal settlements where drug activity often escalates during festive periods.

In addition to law enforcement action, NACOC officers engaged residents who gathered to witness the removal of drug peddlers from their neighbourhoods.

On-site public education sessions were conducted to inform community members about the dangers of drug abuse and its broader impact on public safety and community wellbeing.

NACOC said the engagement with residents formed part of its approach to combine enforcement with education, particularly in communities affected by drug-related activities.

In total, 72 suspects were arrested during the series of operations. The Commission has assured the public that the raids will continue in the coming weeks and months as part of sustained efforts to enhance security and protect lives across the country.

NACOC maintained that Operation White Ember underscores its resolve to confront drug trafficking and abuse, especially during periods when communities are most vulnerable to the social harms associated with narcotics.