ASP Abdul Bawah Jalil, leader of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Special Operations Team, has issued a stern warning to parents and guardians to take active responsibility for their children.
He urged them to discourage the youth from drug abuse and narcotics peddling, emphasizing that offenders will be arrested and prosecuted without exception.
Addressing the media following a major swoop in Tamale—including the Central Business District—ASP Jalil made it clear that the team remains immune to outside pressure. He stated that no amount of influence would prevent the prosecution of those arrested for drug-related offenses.
The recent exercise is part of a series of targeted interventions in the Northern Region aimed at clamping down on the sale and use of opioids and other illicit substances. Driven by intelligence reports, the team targeted several known hotspots, including Gurugu, Tamale Bus Stop and Central Business District.
This operation follows similar successful sweeps in Yendi, Tolon, and Savelugu, forming a broader strategy to flush out illegal drug networks across the region.
ASP Jalil noted that drug trafficking and use have decreased significantly since the team’s deployment. He specifically commended the judiciary for its swift cooperation, noting that their support ensures the police’s efforts are not in vain.
“Drug activities have gone down drastically. Since our arrival, we have arrested several suspects, many of whom are currently before the courts, with some remanded and others already sentenced,” he said.
“The judicial system has been very helpful, and the IGP is grateful for the support we continue to receive,” he added.
The ASP assured Ghanaians that the ongoing crackdown is being conducted solely to maintain peace and security in Northern Ghana. He warned that the police would not be intimidated by attempts to shield criminals through political or traditional affiliations.
“When you fight criminal networks, it is never easy. Some people try to use politics or chieftaincy, but this fight is not about individuals — it is for the collective interest of the people of the North,” he stated.
