The National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) has destroyed a record 3.3 tonnes of cocaine, with an estimated street value exceeding $350 million, following a High Court directive.
The exercise, which took place on Thursday, June 20, 2025, was held at the Ghana Armed Forces Base in Bundase under tight supervision. It was witnessed by representatives from the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), the Office of the Attorney-General, defence lawyers, select media outlets, and international observers.
This development stems from a high-profile intelligence operation executed by the NIB on March 4, 2025. Following a tip-off, NIB operatives intercepted a tipper truck loaded with sand at Pedu Junction in Cape Coast. The vehicle, travelling from Takoradi to Accra, was found to be hiding 2,974 kg of cocaine underneath the sand.
A subsequent search at the residence of a suspect led to the discovery of an additional 345.07 kg of highly pure cocaine. Laboratory tests conducted by NACOC and the Ghana Standards Authority confirmed the identity and quality of the narcotics, with purity levels ranging from 50% to 70%.
Currently, three individuals Isaac Quaicoe, Kenneth Cobbinah, and Mawuko Kudufia are standing trial at the High Court in Accra in connection with the case.
The NIB has stated that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other accomplices who are currently on the run. According to the agency, “no effort will be spared in bringing all individuals involved to justice.”
Prior to the destruction, officers from the Ghana Standards Authority conducted field tests to authenticate the seized drugs. Cobalt thiocyanate reagent and hydrochloric acid were used, turning the substances blue an indication of cocaine. Other quick tests also verified the presence of cannabis.
The incineration included not only the massive cocaine haul but also additional drugs seized across the country. These included heroin, cannabis, red 225 tablets, multiple cartons of codeine, and other batches of cocaine.
Brigadier General Maxwell Obubaa Mantey, Director-General of NACOC, described the disposal as part of activities marking the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. “NACOC, in partnership with other security agencies, will soon launch a nationwide crackdown on drug trafficking networks,” he announced.
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