The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has raised alarm over a new method of sneaking marijuana into schools — packaging the drug as tea bags. Authorities say the trend is aimed at luring young people into drug use.
Deputy Director-General of NACOC, Alexander Twum-Barimah, revealed that a first-year student at a senior high school in the Eastern Region was recently caught with one of the “wee tea bags” hidden in his belongings.
“I went to Asamankese, and during my discussion with the District Chief Executive, he mentioned that a Form One student was found with a marijuana tea bag in his school bag,” Mr. Twum-Barimah said in a Woezor TV interview aired on Sunday, September 28.
He cautioned that the issue has spread beyond senior high schools, pointing to increasing cases in basic schools as well. He cited an incident involving a 16-year-old boy who was arrested with two sticks of marijuana.
“Sixteen years old, carrying two sticks of marijuana. Why should that happen?” he asked.
The growing concern has prompted several district assemblies to request NACOC offices in their areas. So far, branches have been opened in the Asamankese District, Adansi Municipality, and Ashanti Akim District.
Mr. Twum-Barimah also disclosed that NACOC has shut down six drugstores and two pharmacies for illegally selling high-dose tramadol.
“Tramadol is not banned in Ghana, but the law permits only 50mg or 100mg doses, and strictly on prescription. Anything above that is prohibited,” he clarified.
He recounted how drug abuse is fuelling reckless behaviour, sharing a personal experience where a motor rider suspected to be under the influence crashed into his car.
Under the leadership of Brigadier General Mantey, NACOC says it remains committed to reducing drug abuse among the youth.
“We may not be able to eradicate it completely, but we will bring it to the barest minimum,” Mr. Twum-Barimah assured.
Source: graphic.com.gh
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