The Member of Parliament for Karaga has attributed the worsening drug abuse situation in Tamale to the withdrawal of the Inspector-General of Police’s Special Operations Team, popularly known as the “Black Maria,” from the Northern Regional capital.
The MP said the absence of the specialised police unit had weakened law enforcement efforts against illicit drug trafficking and abuse, allowing the problem to escalate, particularly among the youth.
Addressing journalists, he explained that the unit had played a crucial role in conducting rapid operations, raids and arrests of suspected drug dealers before its withdrawal.
According to him, security agencies are now facing operational challenges in responding swiftly to drug-related offences without the dedicated team.
“The Black Maria were here enforcing the law to fight illicit drug abuse, but people in Tamale lobbied for their withdrawal. We are the ones discouraging law enforcement,” he said.
The lawmaker expressed concern that interference with the operations of security agencies could undermine efforts to combat the growing drug menace and warned of the long-term social consequences if decisive action was not taken.
“If we don’t stop this, in the next ten years we will lose the value of our society and our youth,” he cautioned.
He appealed to residents to cooperate with law enforcement agencies instead of obstructing their work, stressing that tackling substance abuse required a collective effort.
The MP noted that while government remained committed to addressing the challenge, lasting success would depend on the active support of communities, traditional leaders, parents and other stakeholders.
“Government cannot do it alone; we need to support government to be able to fight this menace,” he said.
He called for renewed public backing for anti-drug enforcement measures to protect young people and safeguard the future of the Northern Region.
