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Ghana facing illicit opioids crisis

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Minister of Health, Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, and the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) have issued stark warnings about the growing threat of illicit opioids in Ghana.

In a statement delivered to Parliament, Mr. Akandoh emphasized that the increasing infiltration of these dangerous substances is “a matter of grave public health and national security concern.”

“Mr. Speaker, the opioid crisis is not just a health issue but a national emergency. We need a coordinated and sustained response from all relevant sectors and the public,” he declared.

Unregistered drugs and border vulnerabilities

Mr. Akandoh revealed that Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority had confirmed the presence of several unregistered Tramadol brands, including Trafanol, Tarapamol, and Tramaking, which have entered the country through unapproved routes.

He also cited a recent investigative report by BBC Africa Eye, which exposed the alleged exportation of unapproved drugs containing tapentadol and carisoprodol.

These revelations have intensified concerns over the effectiveness of current border controls and regulatory measures, highlighting vulnerabilities that illicit drug traffickers continue to exploit.

Immediate govt response and coordinated action

In response to the crisis, the Sector Minister informed Parliament that the Ministry of Health has taken immediate actions to combat the menace.

These measures include tightening border inspections to intensify checks at major entry points, increased monitoring of over-the-counter drug sales, seizure of unauthorised opioids, and initiating legal action against offenders.

In addition, a national education campaign has been launched to raise public awareness about the dangers of illicit opioid use.

The Minister also stressed the need for inter-agency collaboration, urging all relevant bodies to close loopholes, tighten regulations, and hold those responsible accountable.

“Mr. Speaker, we must close the loopholes, tighten the rules, and hold those responsible for this crisis accountable,” he stated.

Broad political and professional consensus

The alarming situation has garnered widespread attention from various political and professional stakeholders.

Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, NDC MP for Klottey Korle, described the phenomenon as truly alarming, citing the devastating impact of illicit drugs on public health and safety.

Mr. Kwame Anyimadu-Antwi, NPP MP for Asante-Akim Central, highlighted the rising addiction among youth as a clarion call for strengthened border monitoring and enhanced cooperation between the Ministry of Health, Customs, and the Narcotics Control Board.

Professor Titus Kofi Bayuo, NDC MP for Lambussie, called for strict regulation of these drugs, warning that failure to do so would only exacerbate the widespread social and economic challenges associated with substance abuse.

PSGH condemns illicit importation

The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) has unequivocally condemned the illicit importation of highly dangerous opioids into Ghana and other West African countries.

In its statement, PSGH decried the proliferation of unapproved pharmaceutical products, particularly those containing tapentadol and carisoprodol, which pose severe public health risks.

The society referenced a BBC documentary that exposed how companies like Aveo Pharmaceuticals of India exported unlicensed and unregistered opioid formulations—such as Tafrodol, Timaking, and Super Royal-225—into Ghana.

These drugs, which are not approved for medical use anywhere in the world, have been linked to a rising number of addiction cases and severe health complications in the region.

Call for a thorough investigation and stronger controls

PSGH emphasized that the abuse of opioids has devastated communities, contributing to increased substance dependency, mental health disorders, and broader socio-economic challenges. The society called on regulatory agencies, including the FDA, the Pharmacy Council, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA)-Customs Division, the Criminal Investigation Department of the Ghana Police Service, the Narcotics Control Authority, the National Intelligence Bureau, and all other relevant bodies, to expedite a thorough, independent investigation into these allegations.

“If any local pharmaceutical company is found to have breached regulatory protocols, appropriate sanctions should be enforced to maintain the integrity of the pharmaceutical supply chain in Ghana,” PSGH stated.

Additionally, PSGH called for enhanced border controls, strict pharmaco-vigilance measures, interagency cooperation, and robust public education and awareness campaigns to combat the illicit opioid trade.

“The PSGH remains committed to ensuring that only safe, effective, and approved medicines are available in Ghana. We urge all stakeholders, including the government, regulatory bodies, healthcare professionals, and the general public, to join hands in combatting this dangerous illicit trade,” the statement concluded.

Source: NewsCenta

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Anticipation Builds as Quarme Zaggy Reveals the Striking Cover Art for his Latest Single “I’M SORRY”

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Ghanaian recording artist Quarme Zaggy has unveiled the captivating cover artwork for his upcoming single I’M SORRY, setting the stage for what promises to be an emotionally powerful musical release.

The newly released artwork presents a visually striking concept that reflects the deep emotional theme behind the song. With carefully crafted imagery and symbolism, the cover hints at a narrative centred on regret, reflection, and the courage it takes to admit one’s mistakes. The design captures a mood of vulnerability and sincerity, aligning perfectly with the heartfelt message suggested by the title I’M SORRY.”

https://youtu.be/JtBH8vW4RNs?si=lc5guugrx4aUhgZB

In today’s music landscape, cover art often plays a crucial role in storytelling, and Quarme Zaggy appears to have embraced that creative approach with this release. The artwork serves as more than just a visual identity for the single; it offers fans an early emotional connection to the message and atmosphere of the song.

Known for his expressive style and relatable storytelling, Quarme Zaggy continues to build a growing reputation for crafting music that resonates with listeners on a personal level. His songs frequently explore themes of love, life experiences, and personal growth, and I’M SORRY appears poised to continue that tradition.

Following the reveal of the artwork, fans have taken to social media to express excitement and curiosity about the song’s sound and lyrical depth. The buzz surrounding the announcement suggests that the single could become one of the artist’s most emotionally resonant releases yet.

As anticipation builds ahead of the official release, the unveiling of the artwork marks the beginning of a new chapter for Quarme Zaggy, inviting listeners to prepare for a song that promises honesty, emotion, and heartfelt storytelling

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Ghana to Host UN High-Level Reparatory Justice Event — Mahama Calls for Historical Accountability

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Ghana is set to host a high-level special event on reparatory justice later this month at the United Nations, reinforcing global calls for justice for the transatlantic slave trade and racialized chattel enslavement of Africans.

During a state luncheon held in honor of visiting Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis, Hon. Dr. Terrance Michael Drew, President John Dramani Mahama emphasized that the initiative is not about charity but about historical justice and accountability.

Speaking on the significance of the event, President Mahama said the legacy of slavery continues to shape global inequalities and must be addressed through collective international action.

“The transatlantic and racialized chattel enslavement of Africans constitutes one of the gravest crimes against humanity in history,” President Mahama stated. “Our call is not for charity. It is for justice rooted in truth, accountability, and recognition of the suffering endured by our ancestors.”

According to the President, the upcoming UN event will provide a platform for African and Caribbean nations to shape their own narrative about historical injustices. He stressed the importance of unity between Africa and the Caribbean in advancing reparatory justice discussions.

“It is time for our story to be told by us — grounded in truth, anchored in historical accountability, and driven by the determination to correct the injustices of the past,” he said.

Mahama further urged stronger solidarity between African and Caribbean nations, noting that shared historical experiences should translate into stronger diplomatic and policy collaboration.

“Together, Africa and the Caribbean must speak with one voice, with clarity, unity, and strong moral conviction,” he added.

The Ghanaian government believes that the event will strengthen global dialogue on reparatory justice, development cooperation, and cultural restoration. Officials say the initiative aligns with broader efforts to promote historical recognition and sustainable partnerships between nations affected by the transatlantic slave trade.

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Duabo King Arrested for Claiming Police Personnel Patronize Prostitutes More Than Any Sector

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The Ghana Police Service has arrested a 45-year-old social media personality, Isaac Boafo, popularly known as “Duabo King,” for allegedly publishing false news with intent to cause fear and panic.

 

In a press release issued on March 1, 2026, the Ashanti Regional Police Command confirmed that the suspect was apprehended following a viral TikTok video in which he alleged that four officers stationed at the Central Police Station in Kumasi engaged in inappropriate conduct with commercial sex workers during night patrol duties at Asafo.

 

Duabo King had claimed in the video that personnel within the Ghana Police Service patronizes prostitutes more than any other sector in the country. He further alleged that if the government were to shut down prostitution, popularly known in West African Pidgin as “ashawo”, it would significantly affect the Service because its personnel patronizes the trade the most.

 

According to the statement signed by Deputy Superintendent of Police Godwin Ahianyo, Head of the Public Affairs Unit for the Ashanti Region, officers from the Police Intelligence Directorate acted on intelligence to arrest the suspect.

 

During interrogation, Isaac Boafo admitted publishing the video and described himself as a social media content creator who made the allegations solely to attract views and online engagement. He further acknowledged that he could not substantiate the claims made against the officers.

 

The Police added that the suspect also admitted making comments concerning the President of the Republic for content creation purposes and stated that he could not defend those statements.

 

He has since been formally charged and detained to assist with further investigations.

The Service cautioned the public against the publication and circulation of false information, especially on social media, warning that such acts have the potential to cause unnecessary fear, panic, and reputational damage. Individuals found engaging in such conduct, the statement noted, will be dealt with in accordance with the law.

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