The Ghana Police Service’s Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Special Operations Team has arrested a total of 19 individuals, including three serving military personnel, in the Tamale metropolis in the Northern Region as part of a proactive security operation.

According to a police brief issued on January 23, 2026, the operation was carried out on January 19 in several locations, including the Kamina Barracks enclave, Aboabo Market and the Water Works area. The command said the arrests formed part of intensified efforts to combat criminal activities, including drug peddling and other offences that undermine public safety.

Police say seven persons were arrested at Aboabo Market after quantities of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp were found in their possession. Identified among them were Ikram Abdul Razak, Farouk Nhim, Issah Mohammed, Abulai Fuseini, Umaru Zulkarina, Mohammed Marawu and Shaibu Ibrahim.

In the Kamina Barracks enclave, another seven individuals were taken into custody for possession of quantities of suspected Indian hemp and Koffex cough syrup. Those detained in that location included Sim Michael, Abdul Lasa, Iddi Suaya, Franklina Owusu, Albert Anafo, Sadiq Alhassan and Ziblina Muntalla, police said.

Police also said three persons who identified themselves as military personnel were among those arrested at the barracks enclave for the possession and use of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp. After verifying their identities, the officers were reportedly handed over to the Military Police Command for appropriate action.

Separately, two other suspects were arrested in the Water Works area for similar narcotics-related offences, and one Alhassan Abdul Shakaun was arrested for possession of a substance known locally as “Royal 225,” also considered an illegal drug.

The arresting team reportedly secured all exhibits, including suspected controlled substances, for forensic examination and evidential purposes. The suspects not handed over to military authorities have been detained at the Sakasaka Police Station and are assisting police investigations.

Police said the operation forms part of a broader initiative to enhance security in Tamale and build public confidence in law enforcement. Authorities have stated that investigations are ongoing and that appropriate legal action will be taken based on the evidence.