‘Red Maria’ Police team arrests seven, seizes 40 wraps of suspected Indian Hemp

The Northern Regional Special Operations Team of the Ghana Police Service, popularly known as “Red Maria,” has arrested seven individuals and seized 40 wraps of substances believed to be Indian hemp during a targeted anti-drug exercise in the Tamale Metropolis.

The operation, which took place around 8:30 p.m. on Monday, April 20, formed part of ongoing police efforts to combat drug trafficking and related crimes in the region.

In a statement issued by the Public Relations Unit of the Northern Regional Police Command and shared with the Ghana News Agency in Tamale on Tuesday, April 22, it was noted that a 44-member team carried out coordinated raids at identified hotspots, including Zogbeli, Kukuo, and later Savelugu, based on intelligence gathered.

At Zogbeli, four suspects, Sulemana Sualha, 20; Alhassan Ayisha, 25; Abdul Fatawu Damba, 16; and Mohammed Amin, 20, were arrested for allegedly possessing and dealing in narcotics.

The team then proceeded to Kukuo, where two more suspects, Ibrahim Abdulai, 20, and Issah Abass, 17, were apprehended for similar offences.

Following additional intelligence, the operation was extended to Savelugu, where Ibrahim Osuman, 21, was arrested. Although a search of his residence did not uncover any substances, preliminary investigations suggest possible involvement in drug-related activities.

In total, 40 wraps of suspected Indian hemp were recovered during the operation.

All seven suspects remain in police custody and are assisting with ongoing investigations.