NIB declares 3 more suspects wanted in $350m cocaine bust

The National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) has declared three individuals wanted. They are Kelian Julien Mensah, Jefflean Kwadjo Ntow, and Charles Hagan. This is in connection with Ghana’s largest drug bust this year.

The NIB tested over three tonnes of suspected cocaine at its headquarters. This testing followed a court order from the Criminal Division of the High Court. Justice Ruby Aryeetey presided over the case.

The substances were intercepted in March at Pedu Junction. They were hidden under sand in a tipper truck heading to Accra.

Field tests used Cobalt Thiocyanate reagent, which turned blue. This indicated a presumptive positive result for cocaine. Laboratory analyses by the Ghana Standards Authority confirmed it as cocaine hydrochloride.

With confirmation complete, the NIB can now destroy the narcotic exhibits as ordered by the court.

During Wednesday's session, there was an attempt to submit laboratory results from GSA. The State Attorney tried to present these through a lab technician. However, lead defense counsel Victor Adawudu objected to this move.

He argued that the Case Management Conference (CMC) had not been completed yet. The court agreed with his objection.

The remaining exhibits are valued at over $350 million. They will be destroyed at Bundase in Greater Accra on June 20, 2025.

The case has been adjourned to June 24 for further proceedings. Additional samples will be collected for trial with all parties present.

Meanwhile, the NIB is actively searching for the three newly named suspects.