The District Commander of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) at the Paga Border Post, DNCO Lawrence Lamtey-Mills, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to combating illicit drug use, trafficking, and related criminal activities in the Kassena-Nankana West District and beyond.
DNCO Lamtey-Mills explained that NACOC was established under Act 1019 to regulate and control narcotic drugs, plants cultivated for narcotic purposes, and other related matters. He noted that the Commission’s core mandate includes enforcing laws on narcotics through investigations, arrests, and prosecution of individuals involved in drug trafficking and abuse.
According to him, NACOC also places strong emphasis on education and prevention, particularly among the youth, to raise awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse. He added that the Commission monitors the movement of precursor chemicals, substances used in the production of illicit drugs, especially those transiting through inland ports to Burkina Faso.
“Any precursor chemical that passes through the border must have the required permit. If there is no permit, we stop the consignment until the necessary documentation is obtained,” he stated.
He made these remarks while addressing Assembly Members during the Third Ordinary Meeting of the Kassena-Nankana West District Assembly.
DNCO Lamtey-Mills further disclosed that treatment and rehabilitation form part of NACOC’s mandate, noting that the Commission provides counselling services for individuals suffering from drug abuse and substance use disorders.
He also clarified NACOC’s enforcement powers, stating that narcotics officers do not require a search warrant to enter and search premises when carrying out their duties.
“Narcotics Control officers can search any premises at any time as part of their mandate. We also use firearms, so members of the public should not be alarmed if they see officers armed during operations,” he explained.
Touching on public education efforts, he said NACOC marks the United Nations World Drug Day every year on June 26, although this year activities were limited to radio engagements instead of school outreaches.
DNCO Lamtey-Mills further revealed that in July 2025, NACOC officers at the Paga Border intercepted two Burkinabe nationals attempting to smuggle 17 gold bars out of the country. He said the suspects were apprehended in Paga and have since been transferred to Accra for further investigations.
He called on Assembly Members to collaborate with NACOC by supporting sensitisation efforts and sharing intelligence to help curb drug-related crimes and other illicit activities in the district.
Source: A1 Radio | 101.1Mhz | Joshua Asaah | Paga
