The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), in collaboration with the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB), has held a twinning mission aimed at preventing the trafficking of dangerous substances through E-Commerce and Internet-related services.
The two-day programme, facilitated by the Board’s Global Rapid Interdiction of Dangerous Substances (GRID), was held in Accra, in collaboration with the Nigerian Law Enforcement and private sector counterparts, such as the courier service providers and E-Commerce providers.
The event focused on sharing experiences and strengthening the regional efforts of authorities in Ghana and Nigeria, as well as internet-related services, in preventing the exploitation of legitimate services for the trafficking of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS).
It also focused on discussions related to non-medical synthetic opioids and their relevant precursors, which needed attention by regulators.
Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, the Director-General of NACOC, said the gathering reflected the collective commitment by all stakeholders to tackle a pressing global challenge through e-commerce platforms and internet-related services.
He said across the globe, the online ecosystem had become both a gateway for opportunities and a channel for exploitation, with criminal networks increasingly using digital platforms, social media, and online marketplaces to traffic NPS, synthetic opioids, and other controlled precursors.
“For us in West Africa, the challenge is particularly complex. Limited border resources, evolving trafficking techniques, and cross-border vulnerabilities demand regional cooperation and innovative strategies,” he stressed.
He said NACOC remained steadfast in its mandate under Act 1019 to protect public health and national security.
Brig. Gen. Mantey said over the past few years, the Commission had strengthened efforts in tackling digital forensics and cyber-enabled investigations and expanded its public-private partnerships with leading e-commerce platforms and Internet Service Providers.
“We have also enhanced intelligence-sharing mechanisms with regional and international partners and prioritised capacity-building and cross-border collaboration to counter the evolving exploitation of our cyberspace for illicit drug trafficking,” he added.
Mr. Clarence Chip Duncan, the Law Enforcement Advisor to Ghana of the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL), said the INL was proud to support the INCB-GRIDS programme to combat the online trafficking of dangerous substances.
He said the issue was one of great urgency and complexity, demanding robust cooperation between law enforcement agencies and internet service providers.
Mr. Duncan underscored the need to acknowledge the rapidly evolving landscape of cybercrime, where the internet served as both a tool and a battleground.
He said that by equipping law enforcement officers with advanced digital skills and fostering innovation, one could enhance their investigative and operational proficiency.
He encouraged them to remain committed to utilising cutting-edge technologies and data analytics to stay ahead of the perpetrators.
Mr. Duncan said the INL valued their commitment and dedication to this essential cause and believed that together, they could pave the way for a safer and more secure future.