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Seven Arrested in Cape Coast Anti-Drug Swoop: Police Seize Narcotics and Gaming Machines

Life Pulse Daily | Published: December 20, 2025

Introduction

In a decisive effort to curb illicit activities and maintain public safety, the Central Regional Police Command has successfully executed a major intelligence-led operation in the Cape Coast Metropolis. This targeted swoop, conducted on the evening of Saturday, December 13, 2025, resulted in the arrest of seven individuals suspected of involvement in drug peddling and unauthorized gaming operations. As law enforcement agencies across Ghana intensify their crackdown on narcotics and related crimes, this operation serves as a significant milestone in the ongoing battle against the drug trade in the Central Region.

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the operation, detailing the arrests, the seized items, and the broader implications for community safety. We will explore the background of the police action, the specific locations targeted, and the legal framework surrounding these arrests, offering a clear and educational perspective on this developing news story.

Key Points

Background

The fight against narcotics and organized crime in Ghana has been a persistent priority for the Ghana Police Service. Cape Coast, a historic city and regional capital, has faced challenges regarding the proliferation of illicit drug trade and unauthorized gaming establishments. These activities often correlate with increased crime rates, youth addiction, and the destabilization of local communities.

In response to these challenges, the Central Regional Police Command has adopted a more proactive, intelligence-driven approach. Rather than relying solely on reactive measures, the Command has focused on gathering actionable intelligence to identify and dismantle networks involved in the sale and distribution of prohibited substances.

The operation on December 13, 2025, represents the culmination of weeks of surveillance. By targeting specific “hotspots” identified through community tips and police intelligence, the Command aimed to disrupt the supply chain of narcotics and send a strong message to operators of illegal gaming dens.

Analysis of the Operation

The police swoop was executed with precision, highlighting the importance of tactical planning in law enforcement. The operation unfolded in two distinct phases across three key neighborhoods in the Cape Coast Metropolis.

The Effutu Raid

The first phase of the operation targeted a known narcotics base in Effutu. This area had been flagged as a hub for the sale and use of prohibited substances. Upon arrival, police officers arrested two suspects: Robert Kobbina and Abu Issifu.

A subsequent search of Robert Kobbina yielded a significant cache of illicit items. The recovery included:

• Sachets and capsules of substances identified as “Timaking” and “Tdrona.” (Note: These are local street names for specific narcotic mixtures often encountered in the region).
• Substances referred to as “Royal Fart.”
• Dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp (Cannabis).
• Tobacco products, lighters, and various packs of cigarettes.

This seizure underscores the variety of substances circulating in the region, ranging from traditional plant-based drugs to synthetic chemical mixtures.

Poly Amisano and Nkanfoa Extension

Following the initial success in Effutu, the operation was extended to Poly Amisano and Nkanfoa. These areas are known to police as active zones for drug peddling and unregulated commercial activities.

In Poly Amisano, officers arrested five additional suspects: Janet Mensah, Emmanuel Quarshie, Osei Boateng, Animful Emmanuel, and Charity Nkrumah. The complexity of the network was revealed when a search of a drinking spot operated by Janet Mensah led to the recovery of large quantities of cigarettes, tobacco, and lighters. Crucially, three jackpot gaming machines were also seized from this location.

The operation concluded with a raid in Nkanfoa, where police seized an additional four jackpot machines. The presence of these gaming machines indicates a dual criminal enterprise involving both narcotics and unauthorized gambling, a trend that has been rising in various Ghanaian communities.

Practical Advice and Community Impact

While the arrest of suspects is a victory for law enforcement, the operation highlights several practical issues for the community and policymakers.

Understanding the Dangers of “Timaking” and “Tdrona”

From a pedagogical standpoint, it is vital for the public to understand what these seized substances represent. “Timaking” and “Tdrona” are slang terms for potent drug cocktails often laced with tobacco or cannabis. They are highly addictive and can cause severe psychological and physical health issues, including paranoia, hallucinations, and long-term cognitive damage. Community members, especially parents and teachers, should be vigilant about the slang used by youth to refer to these substances.

The Link Between Gaming and Drug Trade

The seizure of seven jackpot machines alongside narcotics suggests a symbiotic relationship between illegal gambling and drug dealing. Illegal gaming dens often serve as fronts or meeting points for drug transactions. Furthermore, gambling addiction can lead individuals into debt, making them vulnerable to recruitment by drug syndicates. Residents are advised to report any unlicensed gaming operations to the police immediately.

Community Cooperation

The success of this operation was predicated on intelligence. This proves that community cooperation is the most effective tool against crime. Residents should utilize police hotlines and anonymous tip lines to report suspicious activities in their neighborhoods. Silence protects criminals; information protects the community.

Legal Implications

The suspects currently in police custody are assisting with investigations. Under Ghanaian law, specifically the Narcotic Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), individuals found in possession of narcotic drugs without lawful authority commit an offense.

Possession and Supply: The law stipulates strict penalties for the possession, supply, and trafficking of narcotic drugs. Depending on the quantity and classification of the drugs (e.g., Cannabis sativa vs. Class A synthetic drugs), offenders can face significant prison sentences ranging from 10 to 25 years, or even life imprisonment for large-scale trafficking.

Unauthorized Gaming: Additionally, operating gaming machines without a license from the Gaming Commission of Ghana is a criminal offense. The suspects are likely to face charges related to both narcotics possession and the operation of illegal gambling devices. The police have stated that those found culpable will be processed for court according to the laws of Ghana.

FAQ

Conclusion

The arrest of seven individuals and the seizure of narcotics and gaming machines in Cape Coast is a testament to the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing. It disrupts the immediate supply of dangerous drugs to the youth and dismantles the infrastructure of illegal gambling that often accompanies such crimes.

However, the battle is far from over. Sustained safety requires a partnership between the police and the community. By staying informed, rejecting the consumption of illicit drugs, and reporting criminal activities, the people of Cape Coast can contribute to a safer, healthier, and more prosperous environment. This operation serves as a reminder that the law is active, and crime will not be tolerated in the Central Region.

Sources

• Life Pulse Daily News Archives (2025).
• Ghana Police Service – Central Regional Command Public Statements.
• Narcotic Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019) – Republic of Ghana.
• World Health Organization (WHO) Reports on Substance Abuse in West Africa.