In a decisive move to curb rising criminal activities in the Central Region, the Central North Regional Police Command arrested 42 individuals suspected of involvement in drug peddling and prostitution.
The intelligence-led operation, conducted on April 16, 2025, targeted hotspots in Ayamfuri, located in the Upper Denkyira West District.
Led by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Abraham Acquaye, the Special Taskforce carried out the sweep between the hours of 9am and 4pm.
The operation focused on two key locations identified as brothels and ghettos, where illegal activities were reportedly rampant.
Among those arrested were 32 foreign women, aged between 22 and 32, who are suspected of engaging in prostitution.
Additionally, 10 Ghanaian men, aged between 20 and 31, were also apprehended during the raid. Law enforcement officers seized a range of items from the scene, including dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp, concoctions believed to be drug-laced, condoms, and cigarettes.
In a press briefing, DCOP Acquaye emphasized that the operation was part of a broader strategy to clean up high-crime zones and crack down on organized illegal operations.
“We acted on credible intelligence and targeted areas that have become notorious for drug and sex trafficking,” he said.
A disturbing element of the arrests was the revelation by some of the foreign nationals that they may be victims of human trafficking.
These individuals alleged that they were lured to Ghana with the promise of legitimate employment opportunities, only to be coerced into sex work upon their arrival.
Authorities have indicated that the foreign suspects will be handed over to the Ghana Immigration Service for further investigation.
The Ghanaian male suspects will undergo a screening process, and those found culpable will face prosecution under the law.
This latest operation comes amid ongoing efforts by the police to clamp down on organized crime and human trafficking rings operating across the country.
The Central Region, particularly areas like Ayamfuri, has in recent years become a focus point for law enforcement due to its rising incidents of drug-related crimes and illicit sex work.
The area has also gained notoriety for galamsey.
The Regional Police Command has assured the public of its continued commitment to restoring law and order and is calling on residents to report suspicious activities to help bolster community safety.
