Interior Minister charges NACOC Board to be bold and combat illicit drug trafficking
Accra, Ghana – In a forceful directive underscoring the government's resolve, Interior Minister Ambrose Dery has charged the newly inaugurated Board of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) to adopt a bold, uncompromising stance in combating the scourge of illicit drug trafficking ravaging communities nationwide.
Addressing the Board during their swearing-in ceremony, Minister Dery minced no words. He emphasized that the fight against narcotics demands unwavering courage and innovative strategies far beyond routine operations. The Minister stressed that traffickers constantly evolve their tactics, necessitating an equally dynamic and fearless response from NACOC.
"The mandate before you is critical to the very fabric of our society's health and security," Dery stated. "I charge this Board to be bold. Be proactive. Think outside the conventional frameworks. We must dismantle the sophisticated networks fueling this illicit trade with precision and determination."
The Minister outlined key expectations:
1. Aggressive Enforcement: Disrupting supply chains and apprehending high-value targets within trafficking syndicates.
2. Enhanced Coordination: Fostering seamless collaboration between NACOC, other security agencies (like the Police and Immigration), and international partners.
3. Robust Prevention: Intensifying public education on the devastating consequences of drug abuse, particularly targeting vulnerable youth.
4. Resource Optimization:Ensuring NACOC personnel are adequately trained, equipped, and motivated for the demanding task.
Dery highlighted the direct links between drug trafficking, organized crime, and threats to national stability. He urged the Board, chaired by Ms. Juliet Amoah, to provide strong governance and oversight, ensuring NACOC operates with maximum efficiency and integrity.
"The narcotics trade fuels violence, destroys futures, and bleeds our nation," the Minister declared. "This Board must champion a new era of relentless pursuit. Timidity has no place in this fight. I expect decisive action, measurable results, and a clear message to criminals: Ghana's borders and communities are not open for your destructive business."
The newly sworn-in Board members pledged their commitment to the Minister's charge, acknowledging the gravity of the task and vowing to steer NACOC towards significantly reducing the flow and impact of illicit drugs in Ghana. The nation now watches for the bold steps to follow