Tema Police: Intercept 2,213 Slabs Indian Hemp on River Volta

• Ghanaian police intercepted 2,213 slabs of suspected Indian hemp on the River Volta near Tuanikopey Island.
• The seizure occurred at 12:45 a.m. on Thursday, September 17, 2026, during a routine patrol by the Ada Marine Police Detachment.
• Occupants of the outboard-powered wooden canoe abandoned the vessel and fled upon sighting law enforcement.
• Investigators recovered 29 sacks of narcotics, 14 gallons (12 with premixed fuel), and two Yamaha outboard motors.
• Police are actively seeking the individuals responsible and urge public cooperation in the ongoing investigation.

The swift action by the Tema Police to intercept Indian hemp on the River Volta underscores the vigilance of law enforcement in monitoring critical transit routes.

The Tema Regional Police Command recently executed a significant drug interception, seizing 2,213 slabs of suspected Indian hemp from a wooden canoe on the River Volta. This operation, which unfolded near Tuanikopey Island, highlights ongoing efforts by Ghanaian authorities to combat drug trafficking within the nation's waterways. The illicit substances were discovered during a routine patrol conducted by the Marine Police Detachment at Ada in the early hours of Thursday, September 17, 2026, around 12:45 a.m.

The comprehensive search of the abandoned canoe by the Ada Marine Police narcotics bust team uncovered 29 sacks filled with the suspected dried leaves. Each of the 2,213 slabs of suspected Indian hemp was meticulously wrapped in yellow cellotape, indicating a well-organized attempt at concealment and transport. Beyond the significant Ghana cannabis seizure on the Volta River, investigators also recovered other crucial items from the vessel.

These additional findings included fourteen 25-litre gallons, twelve of which contained premixed fuel, suggesting preparations for a potentially long journey. Furthermore, two Yamaha outboard motors were found, one rated at 40 horsepower and the other at 30 horsepower, providing the propulsion for the wooden canoe. The suspected narcotic substances have since been transported to the Ada District Police Headquarters for secure storage and further processing. Arrangements are currently underway to move the recovered outboard motors and premixed fuel to the same station as part of the ongoing investigation into this Tuanikopey Island drug interception.

Following the successful interception, the Tema Regional Police Command, through its Head of Public Affairs, ASP Dede Dzakpasu, confirmed the details of the operation. Authorities are actively pursuing leads to identify and apprehend the individuals who abandoned the canoe and its illicit cargo. This incident serves as a clear example of Ghana drug trafficking enforcement efforts, particularly in maritime and riverine environments.

The police have issued a stern caution to the public, emphasizing the severe legal consequences associated with engaging in the trafficking and transportation of narcotic substances. They have also appealed to anyone possessing information regarding the owners or occupants of the abandoned canoe to come forward and report it to the nearest police station. Such public cooperation is deemed vital to assist the ongoing investigation and ensure that those responsible for this attempted drug shipment are brought to justice.

This incident underscores the active enforcement of narcotics laws by Ghanaian authorities, particularly in maritime and riverine areas, signaling heightened risk for individuals or businesses involved in transport that could be implicated in drug trafficking. Lawyers should advise clients operating in these regions about increased scrutiny and the severe penalties for narcotics offenses.

Source: Original reporting via Ghanaian Times.