UNODC Calls for Thorough Investigation into Alleged Drug Flights Through Ghana

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has expressed serious interest in ongoing investigations by Ghanaian authorities concerning allegations that two aircraft suspected of being involved in drug trafficking and money laundering may have used Ghana as a transit point. The allegations were initially raised by Members of Parliament from the Minority side, prompting national and international attention.

According to the Minority, the aircraft in question—an air ambulance and a private jet—landed in Ghana in early March and stayed in the country for several days before departing for Gran Canaria, a Spanish island, on March 25, 2025. They suspect that the planes were used to transport illicit drugs and large sums of money linked to organized crime, sparking demands for full disclosure and a comprehensive investigation by the country’s National Security.

Even though President John Mahama has already instructed the relevant security agencies to begin investigations, the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has dismissed the claims as untrue and politically motivated. In a detailed statement posted on social media, Mr. Ofosu accused Assin South MP, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour—who first made the allegations—of spreading misinformation to damage the credibility of the government. He labeled the accusations as baseless and part of a deliberate campaign to sow public distrust.

However, the UNODC has taken a more cautious and professional stance. Speaking in an interview with Joy News’ Blessed Sogah, Kodjo Attisso, the Regional Adviser for Anti-Money Laundering, Counter-Financing of Terrorism, and Anti-Corruption at UNODC, emphasized that the allegations must not be brushed aside. He insisted that such claims should be properly and thoroughly investigated, and any wrongdoing identified must be prosecuted accordingly.

“Any allegation of such a case should be properly investigated and prosecuted. And then we do believe also in the work of law enforcement and the judiciary,” Mr. Attisso stated. He acknowledged that the case is still in the investigation phase, and as such, the UNODC cannot draw conclusions yet but is monitoring developments closely.

Mr. Attisso also praised the Ghanaian government’s public stance against organized crime. He welcomed President Mahama’s declaration of zero tolerance for such activities, noting that a firm stance from the top levels of leadership plays a crucial role in the fight against criminal networks. “We are happy, we are grateful that the President of Ghana has that direction. We know the harm of organized crime groups in our society. So the more we fight them, we make Ghana safer and secure,” he added.

While investigations are ongoing, the Minority in Parliament remains adamant in demanding full transparency and public accountability. They insist that National Security must provide a detailed report on the two aircraft—why they were in the country for an extended period and whether there is evidence to support the claims of drug and money trafficking. The outcome of these investigations could have significant implications for Ghana’s reputation in the global fight against organized crime.