Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle Constituency, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has urged the government to enhance security measures and closely monitor activities at the country’s borders.
Her call follows a recent BBC Eye investigation, which revealed that unlicensed and highly addictive opioids from India are fueling a growing drug crisis in Ghana. The report highlighted Tamale, the Northern Regional capital, as a hotspot for fake tramadol abuse.
Addressing Parliament on Tuesday, February 25, Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings stressed that drug abuse is a national security threat, pointing out that a significant number of young people are engaged in substance abuse.
She cited her constituency as an example, where drug addicts have taken over schools, harassing both students and teachers at the Nii Amugi Calvary Cluster of Schools. She recounted a recent incident in which a security officer at the school was attacked by a gang of drug addicts and is now in coma at the 37 Military Hospital.
She warned of the severe consequences of illicit drug imports, emphasizing their impact on individuals’ lives, school safety, and overall national security. She, called on the government to strengthen security measures across the country.
Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings further urged the government to re-engage international agencies and build Ghana’s capacity to monitor border activities effectively.
She stressed the need for authorities to track down and prosecute criminals involved in drug trafficking to deter others from engaging in such illegal activities.
She argued that the issue of drug abuse is a pressing national security concern that demands immediate attention.
By: Nana Antwi Boasiako
