Kumasi drug hotspot ‘Tinker Island’ raided,19 suspects in custody

Nineteen people have been apprehended following a targeted raid by the IGP Special Operations Team at a well-known drug hotspot locally called ‘Tinker Island’.

The operation, led by DSP Bawah Abdul Jalil and ASP Samuel Mustapha Abenzuo, aimed to disrupt criminal networks involved in drug trafficking, robberies, violent attacks on commuters, and illegal firearms possession throughout the Kumasi metropolis.

A total of 111 officers, supported by 10 service vehicles, including an armored carrier and a Black Maria for suspect transport, carried out intelligence-driven patrols across inner-city areas, starting from the Manhyia Palace vicinity and extending to Alaba and Tinker, which are notorious for drug-related activity.

During the raid, Madam Ola Ruth, a local shop owner, was arrested after officers found dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp on her premises. Another 18 individuals were taken into custody for involvement in drug dealing and substance abuse in the area. Seized items included white powders suspected to be heroin or cocaine, Indian hemp, opioids, and drug-use paraphernalia.

All suspects were transferred to the Suntreso Police District Headquarters, where they remain in detention pending further investigation and potential prosecution. The confiscated evidence has been sent to forensic units for analysis.

DSP Bawah Abdul Jalil commended the operation, highlighting its impact on public safety: “Operations like this are crucial for dismantling criminal networks and protecting our communities. Intelligence-led policing enables us to tackle persistent threats efficiently.”

The Special Operations Team stressed that the raid demonstrates their ongoing commitment to crime prevention across the Ashanti Region, pledging intensified patrols, continued intelligence gathering, and closer collaboration with communities to uphold law and order.