NACOC sets July 31 deadline for registration of precursor chemicals and controlled equipment

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has ordered all individuals, businesses, and institutions handling precursor chemicals, psychotropic substances, or controlled equipment to register with the Commission by July 31, 2026.

The directive, announced in a statement on Tuesday, July 7, is part of a nationwide exercise to strengthen oversight of substances and equipment that could be diverted into illicit drug production. It is backed by the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), which requires operators to obtain licences before engaging in such activities.

NACOC explained that the registration applies to entities involved in importation, exportation, manufacture, distribution, sale, storage, transportation, brokerage, laboratory, and industrial use of precursor chemicals. Educational institutions using such substances or equipment must also comply.

The Commission listed several categories of controlled equipment requiring registration, including encapsulating machines, tableting machines, rotary evaporators, reaction vessels, pill-counting machines, mixers, condensers, heating apparatus, punches and dies.

NACOC warned that failure to register or obtain the required licence would constitute a breach of the law, attracting administrative, civil, or criminal sanctions. Existing operators were reminded to renew their licences when due.

The initiative, NACOC said, is intended to promote lawful use, prevent diversion into illegal narcotics, enhance national security, and ensure Ghana meets international obligations.