The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Special Operations Team has arrested four persons and retrieved assorted suspected narcotic substances during a wide-ranging security operation across the Tamale Metropolis, as part of intensified efforts to curb crime during the festive season.
The operation, which formed part of the team’s routine intelligence-led activities, targeted violent and economic crimes including robbery, drug peddling and abuse, theft, rape and attacks on traders. The exercise was aimed at strengthening security networks, boosting police visibility and ensuring the smooth flow of commercial and economic activities within the metropolis.
Led by Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Bawah Jalil, the operation commenced with intensive patrols of identified crime-prone areas and suspected hotspots in both commercial and residential communities. The patrols were designed to deter criminal activity while enabling officers to gather actionable intelligence on emerging threats.
During the exercise, intelligence from National Security operatives led to the arrest of Ibrahim Abudu at Taha. He was found in possession of quantities of Tramadol capsules and dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp. A follow-up search at his residence did not yield any additional items of evidential value.
Further intelligence resulted in the arrest of Abdul Hanan at Gumani, where officers retrieved a parcel of dried leaves also suspected to be Indian hemp. Upon interrogation, Abdul Hanan identified his alleged supplier as Mohammed Ibrahim and led the police team to his residence. A search conducted in Mohammed Ibrahim’s presence led to the discovery of sacks and parcels of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp, leading to his arrest.
The team later moved to the Changli area, popularly known as “Aluta Boys,” a location noted for drug peddling, drug use and other criminal activities. On sighting the police, individuals at the location fled. Although no arrests were made, a search of the area led to the retrieval of seven bottles of Benylin Codeine, opioid drugs including Rohypnol tablets, Red tablets, Bupropion tablets and additional dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp. Police say efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest the owners of the recovered items.
At Bilpeila, officers conducted a stop-and-search exercise at Mapuka Junction, leading to the arrest of a young male in possession of three Red opioid tablets. Further interrogation led to the arrest of another suspect, Seidu Abdul Razak, believed to be a distributor. A search on him resulted in the recovery of two Red opioid tablets and other pills.
Seidu Abdul Razak subsequently led the team to Taha, where another suspect, Arafat Yasir, was identified as an alleged supplier. However, a search conducted at his residence did not produce any incriminating items.
The operation was later extended to the Tamale Taxi Rank and its environs, but no suspicious activities or items of police interest were detected.
All four suspects arrested during the operation were conveyed to the Sakasaka Police Station, where they are being held to assist ongoing investigations. The retrieved exhibits have been secured for evidential purposes, pending further investigations and forensic analysis.
Police authorities say the operation significantly enhanced security presence in the metropolis and served as a strong deterrent to criminal activity during the festive season. They assured residents that similar intelligence-driven operations will continue to protect lives, property and economic activities across Tamale.
