The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), in collaboration with the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), has commenced a comprehensive scientific examination of narcotic exhibits earmarked for destruction as part of preparations for the 2026 World Drug Day Commemoration.
The exercise, initiated by the Director-General of NACOC, Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, brings together scientific analysts from the GSA and forensic experts from NACOC’s Forensic Unit to conduct rigorous testing and verification of all exhibits scheduled for destruction on June 24, 2026.
The two-day exercise, being conducted under the direct supervision of the Director-General, is aimed at ensuring the highest levels of accountability, transparency and procedural integrity in the handling and disposal of seized narcotic substances.
The scientific sampling and analysis will form the basis of an analytical report to be submitted to a court of competent jurisdiction to secure the necessary legal authorization for the destruction of the exhibits.
This process is a critical requirement under established legal and regulatory procedures governing the disposal of illicit drugs.
Brig Gen Mantey emphasized the importance of adhering to strict scientific and legal standards throughout the exercise, noting that the Commission remains committed to maintaining public confidence in the management of narcotic exhibits and the enforcement of Ghana’s drug control laws.
“Officers and analysts from both institutions are working diligently to complete the exercise by the close of Thursday, June 11. Comprehensive quality assurance measures have been put in place to guarantee the accuracy, reliability, and credibility of the analytical findings.”
The collaboration between NACOC and the GSA highlights the Commission’s commitment to transparency in the fight against illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse.
It also reinforces the Commission’s determination to ensure that all seized narcotics are handled in accordance with due process and destroyed only after satisfying all legal and scientific requirements.
The planned destruction of the exhibits forms part of activities marking the 2026 World Drug Day Commemoration, which seeks to create awareness of the dangers posed by illicit drugs and reaffirm national efforts to combat drug trafficking and substance abuse.
