A sustained police crackdown on drug-related crime in the Northern Region is beginning to show results, with dozens of convictions secured and growing community support for law enforcement efforts.
The Northern Regional Police Command says its special operation, code-named “Red Maria,” has led to the arrest of 217 suspects within a month, targeting drug peddling and related criminal activities across the Tamale metropolis and surrounding areas.
According to a statement signed by Wisdom Lavoe, the Regional Commander, the operation has focused on intelligence-led raids in known hotspots such as Taxi Rank, Aboabo, Nobisco Forest, Savelugu, Nanton, and Nyankpala.
So far, 40 individuals have been convicted for offences including drug possession, trafficking, prostitution, and unlawful assembly. Sentences have ranged from fines between GH¢2,400 and GH¢120,000 to prison terms spanning 15 months to 15 years. Authorities say GH¢72,000 has already been recovered in fines.
Police attribute the progress not only to enforcement but also to increasing public cooperation. In one instance, residents of Ward K in Tamale apprehended a suspected drug dealer and handed him over to authorities, highlighting the growing role of community vigilance in crime prevention.
The operation has also received strong backing from key stakeholders, including traditional leaders such as the Overlord of Dagbon, the Yaa Naa, as well as civil society groups and local authorities.
While several suspects remain on remand or on bail pending trial, the Police Command says the initiative will continue as part of broader efforts to curb drug abuse and maintain law and order in the region. Residents have been urged to keep supporting the campaign by providing timely and credible information.
