The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Special Operations Team has intensified security operations within the Tamale Metropolis, leading to the arrest of several suspected drug peddlers and the retrieval of large quantities of illicit substances.

The operation forms part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on drug peddling, robbery, attacks on commercial vendors, rape and other serious crimes that pose a threat to national security, particularly during the festive season when economic activity and public movement increase.

A total of 105 police personnel were deployed for the exercise under the leadership of Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Bawah Abdul Jalil, supported by 10 service vehicles, including an armoured vehicle and a Black Maria for the conveyance of suspects.

Before the operation, officers were briefed to maintain professionalism, teamwork and heightened vigilance throughout the exercise.

The team carried out combined highway and community patrols across the metropolis, with strategic deployments at identified crime hotspots to deter criminal activity and ensure public safety.

During the patrols, intelligence-led officers to the residence of one Gladys Lariba at Taha, where a search uncovered quantities of toffees mixed with dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp.

Additional quantities of dried leaves believed to be Indian hemp were retrieved from the premises.

Lariba was arrested, along with one Joseph Christian, who was found at the scene in possession of a wrap of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp.

At Gumbihini, two suspects — Musah Stephen and Fatau Issahaku — were arrested on intelligence for possessing Tramadol capsules.

Further investigations led the team to a suspected supplier identified only as Hidir.

A search at the indicated location resulted in the retrieval of a BB cartridge and more dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp.

However, the suspect fled before the team arrived and is currently on the run.

In a separate operation, intelligence from the Gulkpegu Chief Task Force led to the arrest of Amina Isahaku and her husband, Muhammed Sumaila, at Vitting.

The couple was found in possession of boxes of Tramadol capsules and identified one Hikima Yahaya as their supplier.

A subsequent search at the residence of Hikima Yahaya led to the retrieval of quantities of Tramadol capsules, dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp, and packaging materials.

During the operation, one Rahman Abudu, who was present at the scene, was also arrested after being found in possession of Tramadol capsules.

Hikima Yahaya, however, managed to flee and is currently at large.

All suspects arrested during the operation were conveyed to the Sakasaka Police Station, where they are being held pending further investigations.

The exhibits retrieved have been handed over to investigators for screening and forensic analysis.

Police say investigations are ongoing to track and arrest the two suspects currently at large, while efforts are being intensified to dismantle the wider drug distribution network operating within the Tamale Metropolis.

The Police Service has commended the professionalism and operational effectiveness of the IGP Special Operations Team, noting that the operation underscores the Service’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, especially during the festive season.