The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has arrested 10 students of the Koforidua Technical University (KTU) for allegedly producing and selling cannabis-infused drinks and ice creams during the Students’ Representative Council (SRC) Hall Week celebrations.
The arrests were made during an intelligence-led operation conducted by NACOC officers between July 31 and August 1, 2026. The suspects include a 23-year-old woman, Priscilla Tetteh.
A statement issued by the Commission said the operation followed intelligence gathered on the production, distribution and sale of cannabis-infused products at the event.
According to the statement, the suspects were apprehended while allegedly selling the products to students and other patrons attending the celebrations. Preliminary investigations indicate that the group had established an organised operation for the distribution of cannabis-infused drinks and ice creams.
The Commission said the group’s activities posed a significant threat to public health and the safety of young people, adding that the operation had disrupted an emerging criminal network that was exploiting social gatherings and educational institutions to promote narcotic substance abuse.
NACOC reiterated that cannabis-infused food, beverages and other edible products containing controlled substances remain illegal under Ghanaian law.
It warned that persons involved in the manufacture, distribution, possession or sale of such products would face prosecution.
The statement expressed concern about the increasing commercialisation of narcotic substances among young people under the guise of entertainment and entrepreneurship.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that the group had established an organised operation for the distribution of cannabis-infused drinks and ice creams,” the statement said.
NACOC said the group’s activities posed a significant threat to public health and the safety of young people.
The Commission said the operation had disrupted what it described as an emerging criminal network exploiting social gatherings and educational institutions to promote narcotic substance abuse.
NACOC warned that cannabis-infused food, beverages and other edible products containing controlled substances remained illegal.
It said persons involved in the manufacture, distribution, possession or sale of such products would face the full rigours of the law.
“Educational institutions must remain centres of learning, innovation and character development, not safe havens for drug trafficking and substance abuse,” the statement said.
NACOC commended its officers for their professionalism and swift response, noting that intelligence gathering, surveillance and operational planning contributed significantly to the success of the operation.
The Commission assured the public that it would continue to intensify intelligence-led operations across the country to identify, dismantle and prosecute narcotics trafficking networks, particularly those targeting students and other vulnerable groups.
It also appealed to parents, university authorities, student leaders and the public to remain vigilant and report suspected drug-related activities, stressing that the fight against illicit drugs requires collective effort.
The suspects are currently in NACOC custody and are expected to be processed in accordance with the law.
