The Northern Regional Police Command has arrested four suspects and seized 142 parcels of compressed suspected Indian hemp in an intelligence-led operation, during which the suspects allegedly attempted to bribe the arresting officers with GH¢50,000.
According to the police, the operation was carried out by the Command’s Special Operations Team, known as Red Maria, on Thursday, October 15, 2026, as part of efforts to clamp down on the transportation and distribution of suspected narcotic substances in the region.
In a press release issued on Friday, October 16, 2026, and signed by the Northern Regional Police Commander, DCOP Wisdom Lavoe, the Command said the operation led to the interception of a commercial van travelling from Bimbilla to Tamale.
The police said the team acted on intelligence at about 6:30 p.m. and intercepted the vehicle, with registration number GW 7800-14, which was being driven by 46-year-old Alhassan Zeblim.
The driver was suspected of transporting narcotic drugs, prompting the officers to conduct a search of the vehicle.
A search of the van reportedly uncovered 142 compressed parcels of suspected Indian hemp concealed in four jute sacks, commonly known as Ghana-Must Go bags.
During questioning, Zeblim allegedly told the police that he was transporting the consignment to 34-year-old Ibrahim Yussif, a tricycle rider based in Tamale.
The police said Ibrahim later arrived at an agreed location accompanied by his 56-year-old brother, Bawa Yussif.
Mohammed Haruna, 32, who was subsequently identified as the alleged owner of the consignment, was also arrested.
The operation resulted in the arrest of all four suspects, although the police have yet to disclose further details about their alleged respective roles in the transportation, receipt and ownership of the seized substance.
In a development highlighted by the Regional Police Command, the suspects allegedly offered the arresting officers GH¢50,000 in an attempt to influence their conduct during the operation.
The officers, however, reportedly rejected the alleged bribe.
The incident has drawn attention to the importance of integrity and professionalism in law enforcement, particularly in operations targeting suspected drug trafficking and other criminal activities.
The Northern Regional Police Command commended the officers for their swift response and refusal to accept the alleged bribe, urging other personnel across the region to demonstrate similar professionalism and integrity in the discharge of their duties.
The police said the four suspects, together with the exhibits recovered during the operation, had been handed over to the Regional Drug Law Enforcement Unit (DLEU) for further investigation.
The exhibits include the 142 parcels of suspected Indian hemp and a tricycle.
The investigation is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the transportation of the consignment, the alleged ownership of the substance and the respective roles of the suspects.
The police have not provided further details on whether the suspects have been formally charged or arraigned before a court.
The arrests form part of the Northern Regional Police Command’s efforts to combat suspected narcotics-related offences and strengthen law enforcement in the region.
By 1960news.com
