The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has intercepted a 40-foot trailer carrying five million tablets of Tapentadol 250mg, a powerful opioid analgesic, in one of the largest pharmaceutical drug busts in recent years.
The consignment, destined for Niger, was seized following an intelligence-led operation.
Authorities have arrested four suspects believed to be part of a wider trafficking network involved in the cross-border movement of controlled substances. They remain in custody, assisting with investigations.
Tapentadol is strictly regulated due to its high potential for abuse, dependency, and addiction. Misuse of the drug can lead to severe health complications, including respiratory depression and long-term organ damage.
NACOC has reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying surveillance and enforcement operations across Ghana’s borders.
The Commission is also working with international partners to trace the origin of the shipment and dismantle the network behind it.
“NACOC is working to dismantle the network behind the consignment,” the Commission stated, adding that investigations are ongoing as part of broader efforts to combat organized drug trafficking and protect public health.
