Police arrest 3 suspects for possession of Indian hemp

The Eastern Regional Police Command has arrested three suspects following an intelligence-led operation that resulted in the seizure of 1,600 parcels of suspected Indian hemp and the foiling of a GH¢100,000 bribery attempt, police have confirmed.

In a statement issued by the Public Affairs Unit, Eastern Regio, C/Inspector Bridget Opoku, on May 10, the Regional Police Intelligence Department (RPID) acted on a tip-off regarding narcotics stored in Akosombo-Bonya.

During a surveillance operation near Krobo Girls Senior High School, officers intercepted a Hyundai Rhino truck with registration number GR 5724-15 and tracked it to a secluded location near Atua Government Hospital.

Interception

Police intervened as suspects were transferring sacks from the Hyundai truck into a Howo Zonda Tipper Truck with registration number GN 7948-21. Although the initial group fled into the bush, police secured both vehicles and the cargo.

Bribery attempt

Shortly after the seizure, suspect Solomon Tettey, a 39-year-old welder and resident of Atua, approached the officers claiming ownership of the vehicles and the illegal consignment, which he stated was bound for Nigeria.

In an attempt to compromise the investigation, suspect Solomon Tettey offered the officers a bribe of GH¢100,000. Police personnel feigned interest to secure evidence of the bribery. The suspect transferred GH¢90,000 via Mobile Money and provided GH¢10,000 in cash.

Upon receipt of the funds, backup from the Regional Counter-Terrorism Unit (CTU) and Odumase Police moved in to arrest suspect Solomon Tettey. Two additional accomplices, Joshua Nartey and Teye Nartey, were later apprehended after surfacing at the Regional Headquarters.

Ongoing investigation

The suspects and all exhibits have been handed over to the Regional Criminal Investigation Department (RCID) for further processing and investigation.

The Ghana Police Service reiterated its commitment to integrity and the relentless pursuit of drug trafficking syndicates within the region.