NACOC Arrests Cannabis Distributors During KTU SRC Week

• 10 people were arrested by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) for allegedly distributing cannabis during KTU SRC Week celebrations.
• The suspects, comprising nine men and one woman, were apprehended in an intelligence-led operation on Friday night.
• Ghana's narcotics laws carry severe penalties; simple possession of cannabis is a misdemeanor, while trafficking, dealing, and unlicensed cultivation can lead to imprisonment ranging from five to ten years.
• Recreational cannabis and cannabis-infused products remain illegal in Ghana, though licensed cultivation of low-THC cannabis for medicinal and industrial purposes is now permitted.

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has arrested 10 people for allegedly distributing cannabis and cannabis-infused products during the Students' Representative Council (SRC) Week celebrations at the Koforidua Technical University (KTU).

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has taken swift action to address alleged cannabis distribution during the Students' Representative Council (SRC) Week celebrations at Koforidua Technical University (KTU). The incident occurred on Friday night, with 10 individuals apprehended in an intelligence-led operation. According to reports, the suspects were distributing cannabis and cannabis-infused products, sparking concerns about drug-related activities on campus.

The arrests have sent shockwaves through the university community, with many students expressing surprise and disappointment at the alleged involvement of their peers in such activities.

Ghana's narcotics laws are stringent, with severe penalties for those found guilty of drug-related offenses. The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) is responsible for enforcing these laws and ensuring public safety. Under the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), which repealed the 1990 Act, recreational cannabis remains illegal. Simple possession of cannabis is now a misdemeanor punishable by a fine or imprisonment of not more than six months, while trafficking, dealing, and unlicensed cultivation carry imprisonment ranging from five to ten years. The commission's actions in arresting the suspects are a testament to their commitment to upholding these laws and protecting the public.

It is worth noting that while recreational cannabis and cannabis-infused products remain illegal in Ghana, the cultivation of low-THC cannabis for medicinal and industrial purposes is now permitted under license.

The incident highlights the need for universities to take proactive measures to prevent drug-related activities on campus. Lawyers representing students or universities should be aware of the potential risks and advise clients to report any suspicious behavior. These incidents can lead to serious consequences under Ghana's narcotics laws, including imprisonment and damage to one's reputation. The university community must come together to address this issue and ensure a safe learning environment for all.

Lawyers representing students or universities should be aware of the potential for drug-related activities on campus and advise clients to report any suspicious behavior, as these incidents can lead to serious consequences under Ghana's narcotics laws.

Source: Original reporting via NACOC arrests over alleged cannabis distribution at KTU SRC Week celebration