NACOC Raises Alarm Over Sale of Cannabis-Infused Products on Tertiary Campuses

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has raised concerns over the increasing sale of cannabis-infused products on tertiary institution campuses, warning that students are now playing leading roles in the distribution of narcotic substances.

Speaking in a radio interview, the Deputy Director-General of NACOC in charge of Enforcement, Control and Elimination, Alexander Twum-Barimah, said recent investigations have revealed that some students are openly selling cannabis-infused products such as ice cream, sobolo, toffees, pepper and other food items during campus activities.

His comments come days after five students of Central University were arrested over their alleged involvement in the production and sale of cannabis-infused products during an SRC Week event. According to preliminary investigations, the suspects were allegedly producing and selling cannabis-infused ice cream, sobolo, toffees, pepper and eggs, while also dealing in raw cannabis. The students are currently assisting with investigations.

Mr. Twum-Barimah said the development was particularly worrying because many of those involved are students pursuing higher education.

He explained that investigators initially believed outsiders were responsible for supplying drugs on campuses, but recent operations suggest students themselves are increasingly leading the trade. Investigations are ongoing to identify the source of the drugs and other individuals connected to the network.

The Deputy Director-General stressed that public education remains NACOC's primary strategy in addressing the growing problem. He noted that the Commission is collaborating with educational institutions to educate students on the dangers of drug abuse while also working with rehabilitation centres to support individuals seeking treatment and recovery.

NACOC has reiterated its commitment to intensifying enforcement and public education efforts as it works to curb drug trafficking and substance abuse within Ghana's tertiary institutions.