Ghanas Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has announced strict new measures to stop the illegal entry of highly addictive opioids into the country.

 

His statement follows a BBC investigation that exposed how pharmaceutical company Aveo was illegally exporting a dangerous combination of tapentadol and carisoprodol to Ghana and other West African nations.

 

Speaking in Parliament, Akandoh revealed that a joint task force, including the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Narcotics Control Commission, Customs, and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), has stepped up surveillance at border points to block the entry of such harmful substances.

 

“The task force has intensified checks at smaller entry points, preventing further illegal imports and disrupting a large consignment of tramadol and similar drugs,” he said.

 

 

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He also noted that monitoring of pharmacies and over-the-counter drug stores has increased, with legal action being taken against offenders.

 

The issue has sparked concern among Members of Parliament (MPs), with medical professionals in the House highlighting the devastating effects of these opioids on communities.

 

Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Narcotics Control Commission, Customs, described the crisis as alarming, recounting how drug addicts have taken over parts of her constituency, even invading schools.

 

 

“In my constituency, at the Nii Amugi Cluster of Schools, drug addicts harass children and teachers. Just three weeks ago, a school security officer was attacked by a gang of drug users and is now in a coma at the 37 Military Hospital,” she revealed.

 

 

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Lambussie MP, Prof. Titus Beyuo, echoed her concerns, stressing that the addictive nature of these opioids is destroying lives.

 

Meanwhile, Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh urged the government to provide all necessary resources to fight the drug crisis.

 

“This is not just about drugs; it is about the safety of our citizens. The government must act decisively,” he insisted.

 

With increased enforcement and growing political pressure, Ghana is now taking urgent steps to curb the influx of dangerous opioids and protect its people.