In a sustained crackdown on illicit drugs, the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), in collaboration with the National Police Service, carried out a successful intelligence-led operation in the Talau area, uprooting two sacks of bhang plantation from a residential compound and arresting a 22-year-old.
Speaking after the operation, NACADA CEO Dr. Anthony Omerikwa emphasised that the Authority has continued to scale up its intelligence collection and multi-agency coordination operations specifically to safeguard children and the youth, who remain the main targets of drug traffickers.
“This operation is a direct result of actionable intelligence and seamless collaboration between NACADA and law enforcement. Our message is clear: we are watching, and we will not allow our children to become collateral damage in the profit-driven schemes of traffickers,” Dr. Omerikwa said.
Dr. Omerikwa further warned that with learning institutions now closed for the holiday break, young people are at heightened risk of exposure and recruitment into substance abuse. He urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and to make use of NACADA’s toll-free helpline, 1192, to report any suspicious activities anonymously.
“Drug traffickers take advantage of unstructured time when schools are closed. We are countering this by intensifying our ground presence, working with local communities, and dismantling networks one operation at a time,” he added.
A community member from Talau, who spoke on condition of anonymity, praised the Authority’s efforts, noting that awareness creation initiatives have continued to boost knowledge among residents.
“We now know what to look for and where to report. NACADA’s presence has given us courage. Today’s operation proves that our voices are being heard,” the resident said.
The Authority has urged members of the public to remain alert and continue sharing information that can lead to the arrest of those involved in drug trafficking, reaffirming that community partnership remains the backbone of sustainable prevention.
