Ghana has taken a major step in the fight against illegal drugs with the
safe disposal of a large quantity of seized opioids. The operation was carried
out on April 4, 2025, by the Food and Drugs Authority in collaboration with
several national agencies. These included the National Intelligence Bureau, the
Environmental Protection Agency, the Customs Division, and the Ministry of
Health. The seized drugs were confiscated earlier at Tema Harbour, and their
disposal followed a court order that permitted authorities to act swiftly.
The confiscated shipment included 10 cartons of Rahol Tapentadol, 128
cartons of Tafradol Tapentadol, and 92 cartons of Timaking Tapentadol. These
drugs, classified as opioids, are considered highly dangerous due to their
addictive properties and the risks they pose to public health. Their
destruction was conducted at the Vigour DW Enterprise facility in Ashaiman
under strict safety measures to prevent any environmental or health hazard.
Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh addressed the press following the
operation. He stressed that the action was lawful and aimed at ensuring the
safety of Ghanaians. He warned that those behind the illegal importation of
these substances would face legal consequences. According to him, only
authorized entry points, specifically the Kotoka International Airport and Tema
Harbour, are allowed for the importation of medicines and food into the
country. He reminded all businesses and individuals to follow the law strictly
to avoid prosecution.
The Minister emphasized that drug abuse continues to be a serious threat in
the country, and the government is committed to preventing the circulation of
such harmful substances. He pointed out that the seizure and disposal of these
opioids demonstrate the seriousness of the authorities in tackling the issue.
This latest move is part of a larger strategy to clean up Ghana’s
pharmaceutical space and remove harmful drugs from the market before they reach
the public.
Dr. Delese Mimi Darko, the Chief Executive Officer of the Food and Drugs Authority,
also issued a warning about the dangers of opioid misuse. She explained that
opioids, though useful when prescribed by doctors for pain relief, can be
life-threatening when misused. She noted that many users become addicted
quickly, and such addictions often lead to serious health complications or even
death. She added that young people in particular are at high risk, and the
government is working hard to stop these drugs from reaching communities.
She praised the success of the joint operation, saying that it highlights
the importance of collaboration among government agencies. According to her,
the work done by the FDA and its partners is crucial in maintaining the
country’s drug safety and protecting citizens from the dangers of illegal
substances.
The safe destruction of these opioids also sends a strong message to drug
traffickers and importers. It shows that the government is watching and will
not hesitate to take firm action. Authorities confirmed that investigations are
ongoing to track down those responsible for bringing the drugs into the
country. Legal processes are underway, and arrests are expected in connection
with the case.
The FDA said the disposal was done with great care to avoid harm to the
environment. The Environmental Protection Agency played a major role in making
sure the process met environmental standards. This ensured that while public
health was protected, the operation also maintained Ghana’s commitment to
environmental safety.
Public health experts have welcomed the move, urging the government to
increase awareness campaigns about the dangers of drug misuse. Some have also
called for tighter border checks and stricter monitoring of imported drugs.
They believe this will reduce the chances of illegal substances entering the country
in the future.
The successful disposal of the seized opioids marks a critical win in the
country’s ongoing war against illicit drugs. With increasing cases of drug
misuse across parts of the country, especially among the youth, such operations
are seen as necessary to curb a growing threat. The government has reassured
citizens that it will continue to invest in more advanced systems to detect and
prevent illegal drug shipments.
This operation stands as proof of Ghana’s determination to protect the lives
of its people and to ensure that only safe, legal, and approved drugs are
allowed into the country.
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