Ghana Navy and Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) have renewed their commitment to strengthening inter-agency collaboration in addressing the growing threat of drug trafficking and substance abuse in Ghana. This was made during a courtesy visit by the Director-General of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Major General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, to the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Rear Admiral Godwin Livinus Bessing, at the Naval Headquarters on Tuesday 28 July 2026.
Major General Mantey commended the Ghana Navy for its sustained support for NACOC's operations to combat drug trafficking. He noted that the Commission's exposure to capacity-building initiatives such as Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) training and participation in Exercise OBANGAME EXPRESS has strengthened NACOC's operational capacity and enhanced efforts to disrupt illicit drug trafficking at sea.
In his remarks, the CNS stressed the need for a coordinated national response involving sister security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to help address the growing threat of drug trafficking and abuse. He described the drug menace as a national security concern that requires action beyond law enforcement, emphasising the need for proactive measures to address the challenge.
The CNS further stated that the Ghana Navy remains vigilant in monitoring the country's maritime domain to deter criminal activities. He added that sustained training and stronger collaboration among security agencies would enhance operational readiness and improve the nation's response to emerging threats.
The meeting concluded with a commitment by the CNS and the Director-General of NACOC to deepen cooperation among sister security agencies and relevant stakeholders in addressing drug trafficking and abuse.
Story by: Winifred Laryea
Pictures by: Ebenezer Adu-Saforo
