The Assembly Member Daporetindongo, Christopher Akolga Atingazaa, has expressed deep concern over the growing menace of drug abuse and related crimes in his community, warning that the future of many young people is at serious risk if urgent action is not taken.
Speaking on Bolga FM’s Tingmaalgo Sanga programme on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, Mr. Atingazaa revealed that the abuse of substances such as cannabis (“wee”) and tramadol has become rampant among the youth. He noted that certain spots, particularly around the area behind Imperial Express, had turned into dangerous hideouts where gangs gathered to smoke and engage in criminal activities.
“We have a lot of young people in Daporitindongo who are engaged in taking wee and tramadol, and even those who sell it,” he lamented. “At one point, together with the youth and the police, we mounted serious surveillance and conducted swoops on them. But these guys are stubborn. When you sack them today, tomorrow they are back. And most of the time, they are armed with scissors and other weapons, which they use to attack.”
According to him, the situation has fueled an increase in assaults, phone snatching, and robbery incidents, leaving many innocent residents vulnerable. He described some of the users as “hardened criminals” who often appear unfazed by confrontations with law enforcement or community members.
Mr. Atingazaa also accused certain individuals of aiding the drug trade by secretly distributing substances at lorry stations and other unsuspecting places. “The unfortunate thing is that some irresponsible people are behind this business. They look innocent, but they are the ones destroying our children. The question is: will you sell these drugs to your own children?” he asked passionately.
He warned that drug abuse is gradually destroying the energy and potential of the youth. “Some of them, when drugged, cannot even walk or stand well. That is not what we want. We want a responsible, well-grown youth who can take up leadership tomorrow,” he stressed.
The Assembly Member commended the Upper East Regional Chairman of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Fatau Atinga, and his team at the Bolgatanga lorry station for supporting efforts to clamp down on the menace. “Mr. Atinga has been very instrumental and collaborative in this fight, and we appreciate his efforts,” he said.
Mr. Atingazaa has called for a holistic approach involving security agencies, transport unions, traditional authorities, and community members to address the problem before it worsens.
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