Ghana’s Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has arrested the lead shipper in a sophisticated international drug trafficking syndicate behind the interception of 320 kilograms of methamphetamine concealed in charcoal and destined for Australia, as authorities vow to prevent the country from being declared a “narco-state”.

The arrest, announced on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, marks a significant breakthrough in an ongoing investigation into the record-breaking haul, which carries an estimated street value of US$296 million. The drugs were traced to a storage facility in Girraween, Australia, in April 2026, leading to a coordinated, intelligence-led operation spanning multiple jurisdictions.

Three-month manhunt ends in breakthrough

NACOC investigators, working alongside the Bureau of National Intelligence (BNI) and international partners, spent three months conducting round-the-clock surveillance to track down the suspect. The operation involved officers working tirelessly, often sleeping out for several nights, to gather vital intelligence on the transnational criminal network.

“This arrest is a significant breakthrough in unmasking the syndicate responsible for moving and diverting the record-breaking haul,” the Commission stated in a release signed by PNCO Francis Opoku Amoah, Acting Director of Public Affairs and International Relations.

NACOC investigators are currently working alongside international partners to track down remaining suspects believed to be part of a wider, multi-jurisdictional network.

International dimension and celebrity link

The case has drawn international attention following the arrest of a 34-year-old British actress, Emaa Hussen, who has appeared in an EastEnders spin-off and a Jason Statham movie. She has been charged in Sydney for her alleged role in supervising the unpacking of the drugs.

Australian authorities have already charged three individuals in connection with the shipment, which was ingeniously concealed in bags of charcoal and shipped from Ghana to Sydney’s Port Botany.

Ghana’s fight against the ‘narco-state’ label

The arrest comes amid heightened scrutiny of Ghana’s role in international drug trafficking. NACOC’s Director-General, Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, has made it clear that Ghana will not be declared a “narco-state”, signalling the government’s commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks and pursuing all individuals involved, regardless of their position or institutional affiliation.

“This arrest provides vital intelligence as we work to identify and apprehend additional members of this global criminal network,” the Commission said. “The Commission remains committed to collaborating with international partners to safeguard the region from the influence of large-scale drug trafficking organizations.”

Drug destruction underscores enforcement commitment

The arrest was announced during NACOC’s annual drug destruction exercise, where over 9.6 tons of seized narcotic drugs were destroyed. The event provided a broader context for Ghana’s ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking and abuse, demonstrating the government’s zero-tolerance approach to narcotics.

More arrests expected

Authorities have warned that further arrests are expected as intelligence-led operations intensify across multiple jurisdictions.

“This arrest marks a pivotal moment in a coordinated international effort to dismantle the sophisticated transnational syndicate. This development is a critical step in our ongoing mission to disrupt high-level narcotics trafficking,” the Commission stated.

The case underscores the growing sophistication of drug trafficking networks operating across West Africa and the importance of international cooperation in combating transnational organized crime. As Ghana continues to strengthen its enforcement capabilities, authorities are sending a clear message: the country will not become a haven for drug cartels.

We have carefully curated the biggest stories from Ghana, offering our global audience a clear snapshot of key developments dominating conversations.

Resolute Black Stars Hold England to Goalless Draw, Edge Closer to Round of 32

Ghana’s Black Stars produced a disciplined defensive masterclass to hold favourites England to a 0-0 draw in their second Group L match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Boston. Despite England dominating possession, the Black Stars remained compact and difficult to break down, with goalkeeper Benjamin Asare making crucial saves.

The result puts Ghana on four points from two matches, placing them second in the group behind England. A draw in Panama vs Croatia later on Tuesday could mathematically secure Ghana’s place in the Round of 32 ahead of their final group game against Croatia. Coach Carlos Queiroz praised his players’ resilience and commitment. Read the full story here

Chinese Bid for Atlantic Lithium Puts Ghana’s Local Ownership Model at Ewoyaa to the Test

A proposed $210 million takeover of Atlantic Lithium by Chinese firm Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt has raised concerns about Ghana’s local participation goals at the Ewoyaa Lithium Project. The deal could lead to the delisting of Atlantic Lithium from the Ghana Stock Exchange and affect the Minerals Income Investment Fund’s (MIIF) stake.

The original mining lease included provisions for a 13% state free carried interest, MIIF equity, and a mandatory listing on the GSE to promote direct Ghanaian ownership. Regulators are expected to scrutinise the transaction to ensure it aligns with national interests and local content objectives. Read the full story here

Adwoa Safo Breaks Silence on Shooting Incident, Denies Carrying or Firing a Gun

Former Dome-Kwabenya MP Sarah Adwoa Safo has strongly denied allegations that she carried or fired a gun during the shooting incident at her brother Israel Kwadwo Safo Akofena’s residence. Speaking from her hospital bed, she insisted she visited solely as a family member to serve a court injunction and does not own or use firearms.

Medical examinations reportedly revealed bullet pellets and shattered glass lodged near her brain. The incident is linked to a bitter succession dispute within the Kristo Asafo Mission. Police investigations continue following the arrests of Akofena and two others. Read the full story here

Should Ghana Have Been Awarded a Penalty Against England?

Debate continues over whether Ghana should have been awarded a late penalty in their 0-0 draw against England. Prince Adu appeared to be brought down in the box by Ezri Konsa, who made contact with the player but not the ball.

BBC pundits including Wayne Rooney, Micah Richards, and former referee Darren Cann largely agreed it was a clear penalty and possible red card. Questions have also been raised about why VAR did not intervene. Read the full story here

‘World Cup Points Are Expensive’ – Queiroz Celebrates Ghana’s Hard-Earned Draw with England

Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz has described Ghana’s goalless draw against England as a valuable achievement, stating that “points are very expensive” at the World Cup. He praised his players’ discipline and work rate while noting that Ghana could have won the game, citing a clear penalty claim on Prince Adu.

The result keeps Ghana unbeaten and well-positioned in Group L with four points. Queiroz emphasised the sacrifices and commitment required to earn results at this level. Read the full story here

ACCRA, Ghana – Wednesday’s front pages across Ghana’s leading newspapers capture a nation buzzing with World Cup pride! From the Black Stars’ historic goalless draw against England to the revocation of all private firearm licences, here are the ten stories that commanded the front pages on 24 June 2026.

1. Black Stars hold England to historic goalless draw in World Cup clash

Sources: Daily Graphic, Daily Guide, The Ghanaian Times, Daily Post, Metro Lens, Republic Press
Ghana delivered a defensive masterclass in Foxborough, Massachusetts, as the Black Stars frustrated England with a hard-fought 0-0 draw. Goalkeeper Benjamin Asare produced the performance of his life, while the team extended their historic unbeaten record against the Three Lions. President Mahama and millions of Ghanaians celebrated the result as a “giant step” in the tournament.

Click here to access the newspaper front pages on Facebook

2. Court grants Kwadwo Safo Akofena and eight others GH¢4.5m bail over Adwoa Safo shooting

Sources: Daily Guide, The Ghanaian Times, The Publisher, Daily Graphic, News Centa
Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena and eight others have been granted GH¢4.5 million bail by a court in connection with the shooting of former Dome-Kwabenya MP Sarah Adwoa Safo. The accused are facing charges related to the incident, which has sent shockwaves through the Kristo Asafo Church and the broader political establishment.

3. Adwoa Safo breaks silence: Bullet fragments lodged near her brain

Sources: Daily Guide, The Ghanaian Times, The Publisher, Metro Lens
Sarah Adwoa Safo has broken her silence following the shooting incident, revealing that medical tests have confirmed bullet and glass fragments lodged near her brain. The former MP’s condition has intensified the Kristo Asafo succession crisis, with the Kantanka family feud spilling into the public domain. “I have never owned a gun,” Safo reportedly stated.

4. Interior Ministry revokes all private firearm licences, orders reapplication

Sources: The Ghanaian Times, Daily Post, The Daily Statesman, The Publisher, News Centa, Republic Press
In a sweeping security crackdown, the Interior Ministry has revoked all existing private gun permits and ordered a strict re-registration process. New requirements include mandatory psychiatric and drug tests for firearm holders. The decision follows heightened concerns over the proliferation of unlicensed weapons and their role in recent violent incidents.

5. Utility tariffs hike: Electricity up 3.49%, water up 0.85% from July 1

Sources: Metro Lens, The Ghanaian, Daily Guide, The Chronicle, The Business Analyst
The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has announced upward adjustments in electricity and water tariffs effective 1 July 2026. Electricity will increase by 3.49% while water rises by 0.85%, citing exchange rate fluctuations, inflation, fuel costs, and the need to maintain utility companies’ financial viability. The Minority in Parliament has rejected the hikes, calling for utility price reductions.

6. GoldBod unveils new official gold pricing regime from July 1

Sources: The Ghanaian, News Centa, Daily Guide, The Chronicle
The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has introduced a new official gold pricing regime set to take effect from 1 July 2026. The reforms include mandatory trading thresholds, booking rules, and the adoption of LBMA pricing. The move aims to strengthen transparency, curb illicit trade, and maximise revenue from Ghana’s gold sector.

7. Floods ravage Western and Central Regions: 18 dead, thousands displaced

Sources: The Ghanaian Times, News Centa
Devastating floods have claimed at least 18 lives in the Central Region while over 1,700 people have been displaced in the Western Region. Communities remain submerged, roads are blocked, and calls for emergency relief are growing louder. The disaster has exposed critical gaps in drainage infrastructure and disaster preparedness.

8. Afoko declares “Bawumia Presidency is coming” with 3Rs plan to rescue NPP

Sources: The Daily Statesman, Daily Guide, The Publisher
Paul Awentami Afoko, a prominent New Patriotic Party (NPP) figure, has declared that a “Bawumia Presidency is coming” and unveiled a bold “3Rs” plan to rescue the party ahead of the 2028 elections. Afoko’s declaration comes as the NPP seeks to regroup following internal tensions and electoral setbacks.

9. Interior Ministry suspends Kantanka Security Services over shooting incident

Sources: Republic Press, The Chronicle
The Ministry of the Interior has suspended the Private Security Organisation licence of Kantanka Security Services Limited following allegations that its personnel used unauthorised uniforms and possessed firearms during the Adwoa Safo shooting incident. The suspension is part of broader efforts to regulate private security firms.

10. CSOs laud MIIF equity investment in Electrochem’s Ada Songor Salt Project

Sources: The Chronicle, The Herald
Civil society organisations (CSOs) have backed the Minerals Income Investment Fund’s (MIIF) equity investment in Electrochem’s Ada Songor Salt Project, praising progress at the site amid global interest and US$500 million expansion plans. The project is seen as a strategic move to boost Ghana’s salt production and export capacity.