The Ghana Police Service has dismantled an alleged drug distribution network suspected of producing and selling narcotic-infused products to university students in parts of the Kumasi Metropolis.

The operation, conducted by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Special Operations Team (SOT) in collaboration with the Ashanti Regional Police Command, led to the arrest of 44 suspects between July 3 and 5, 2026.

According to the Police, the suspects — comprising 41 males and three females — were arrested during intelligence-led operations in identified criminal hotspots, including Emena New Site, Boadi, Abuabo, Ash Town, Kodie, Bremang, Pankrono, Gyinyaase and surrounding communities.

“The operations, which targeted identified criminal hotspots including Emena New Site, Boadi, Abuabo, Ash Town, Kodie, Bremang, Pankrono, Gyinyaase and surrounding communities, resulted in the arrest of forty-four (44) suspects, comprising forty-one (41) males and three (3) females, for various narcotics-related offences,” the Police said in a statement.

Among those arrested is Emmanuel Duah, 24, who is alleged to have produced cannabis-infused toffees, advertised them online and sold them mainly to students.

Others include Richard Boateng, 45, who is accused of producing cannabis-infused alcoholic beverages, and Frederick Agyei, who is alleged to have been a major supplier of cannabis to university students.

The Police also recovered a large quantity of suspected narcotic substances, including 200 sachets of Tramadol tablets, 400 sealed wraps of dried leaves believed to be cannabis, and locally prepared concoctions suspected to contain narcotics.

Nine casino jackpot machines believed to have been used for illegal activities were also seized.

The exhibits have been secured for forensic examination, while the suspects remain in Police custody assisting with investigations.

The Police said efforts are ongoing to arrest additional suspects believed to be linked to the alleged network.

The Service has assured students, parents, and educational institutions of its commitment to protecting communities from illicit drug trafficking, while urging the public to continue providing credible information to support law enforcement operations.