Police in the Ashanti Region have arrested a man for the unlawful possession of a large quantity of substances suspected to be narcotic drugs following an operation at Asanso, near Bekwai.
The Ashanti South Regional Police Command said the suspect, identified as Atampugri Akanyani, was arrested on January 26, 2026, during a snap check by a police patrol team at the Asanso checkpoint. Akanyani, the driver of a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter bus with registration number AC 718-25, was intercepted while travelling through the area.
According to police, a search conducted on the vehicle uncovered nine nylon sacks concealed inside the bus. The sacks, when opened, were found to contain dried leaves suspected to be narcotic drugs. Further examination revealed a total of 713 compressed slabs of the suspected substances.
Police said the suspect allegedly attempted to bribe officers with GH¢150,000 during the arrest, but the offer was declined.
The seized items have been taken into custody for further examination and analysis. The suspect is currently being held by police as investigations continue.
Authorities said efforts are underway to trace the source of the suspected narcotic drugs and identify other individuals who may be connected to the offence. The police reiterated their commitment to combating drug-related crimes and urged the public to support security agencies with credible information to help curb the illicit drug trade in the region.