NIB smashes $350 million cocaine haul

The National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) has intercepted 3,319.66 kg of suspected cocaine. This haul is valued at around $350 million.

The drugs were hidden in sacks and bags within heaps of sand. They were concealed in a tipper truck to avoid detection.

NIB operatives successfully uncovered the cargo. This marks a significant achievement in the fight against narcotics.

The tipper truck was stopped at Pedu Junction in Cape Coast. It was on its way to Accra when it was intercepted.

This seizure is one of the largest in the country’s history.

The driver, Isaac Quaicoo, is 39 years old. His mate, Kenneth Cobbinah, is a 25-year-old student. Both are currently in custody and assisting with investigations.

After unloading the sand, authorities found 143 marked sacks weighing 2,974 kg. Preliminary tests confirmed that the substance is cocaine.

Further investigations led NIB operatives to a suspect's home. On March 8, they found an additional 13 sacks and one bag weighing 345.07 kg.

Laboratory tests confirmed that these substances are high-purity cocaine. The purity level ranges from 50 percent to 70 percent.

The suspects will appear in court again on April 2, 2025.

NIB has identified more accomplices who are currently on the run. They are actively pursuing these individuals for arrest.

Investigators named Charles Hagan as someone who contracted the driver and his mate for this job.

A follow-up search at Francis Awortwi's residence led to more discoveries of suspected drugs. Awortwi is a close friend of Hagan and allegedly helped arrange transportation for the consignment.

An NIB source stated that this operation highlights their effectiveness against drug trafficking. It also shows the importance of collaboration among law enforcement agencies.

In June last year, two British citizens were arrested for attempting to smuggle cocaine from Ghana to London. They were accused of trying to transport $6.48 million worth of drugs.

Around 166 kg was seized at Kotoka International Airport during this case. The suspects were set to board a flight to London Gatwick Airport when arrested.

Ghana’s Narcotic Control Commission reported that they hid cocaine cut into slabs inside six suitcases.

In 2022, security agencies saw a record surge in drug seizures totaling 59.9 kg worth of illicit drugs.