The wee drinks
The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has busted a network of 10 Koforidua Technical University (KTU) students allegedly producing and selling cannabis-infused drinks and ice cream on campus.
Leading the operation, according to NACOC, was 23-year-old Priscilla Tetteh, named as the suspected ringleader of the group. The arrests were made during an intelligence-led swoop carried out during the Students’ Representative Council (SRC) Hall Week celebrations between Friday, July 31 and Saturday, August 1.
In a statement, NACOC said officers apprehended Priscilla Tetteh along with nine other students believed to be part of the trafficking network.
The suspects were allegedly caught selling the cannabis-laced products to students and other patrons attending the event.
The Commission noted that the operation was triggered by months of monitoring on campus, following reports of students packaging and distributing intoxicating consumables disguised as regular snacks and beverages.
All 10 suspects are currently in NACOC custody and assisting with investigations. They are expected to be processed for prosecution in accordance with the Narcotics Control Commission Act.
NACOC has warned students and vendors against the production and sale of drug-infused products, saying it will intensify surveillance in tertiary institutions to curb the trend. Authorities say the seized items have been sent to the lab for further analysis.
Meanwhile, the university management is yet to respond to the criminal case.
It would be recalled that the Narcotics Control Commission arrested five students of Central University during a targeted operation on campus over their alleged involvement in the sale and distribution of cannabis and cannabis-infused products.
The suspects, who are Level 100, Level 300, and Level 400 students, were picked up following intelligence gathered on illicit drug activities within the university community.
According to preliminary investigations, the students were allegedly engaged in the production and sale of cannabis-infused ice cream, sobolo, toffees, pepper, and eggs, while also dealing in raw cannabis.
The operation uncovered quantities of the suspected substances, which have been seized for forensic examination as part of ongoing investigations.
NACOC officials have reaffirmed their commitment to combating drug-related activities in educational institutions, warning students against involvement in the trafficking and consumption of narcotic substances.
BY Prince Fiifi Yorke