In a sweeping crackdown on illegal pharmaceuticals, the Northern Regional Police Command has arrested 53 year old Alhaji Abdulai Sayuti for possession and unlawful sale of restricted opioid drugs.
The arrest, which took place on July 15, 2025, near Victory Cinema in Aboabo, Tamale, followed an intelligence, led operation targeting Sayuti’s over-the-counter chemical shop.
Initial searches uncovered large quantities of Tramadol and Tramaking, both classified as controlled substances under Ghana’s drug laws.
A subsequent raid on Sayuti’s residence in Fuo revealed a hidden warehouse containing over 400 boxes of Tramadol and multiple boxes of Tramaking, raising serious concerns about the scale of distribution.
Sayuti was arraigned before the Tamale High Court on July 16, where he pleaded guilty to charges of possession and unlawful sale of restricted drugs.
He has been remanded into prison custody, with his next court appearance scheduled for July 21.
Chief Inspector Alhassan Luckman Neindow, spokesperson for the Northern Regional Police, emphasized the command’s commitment to dismantling illegal drug networks and urged residents to report suspicious activities. “We encourage the public to volunteer information to help us fight this menace in our communities,” he stated.
The bust underscores growing fears over the accessibility of opioids in Ghana’s informal pharmaceutical market.
Tramadol abuse has been linked to addiction, mental health disorders, and rising crime rates, particularly among youth.
Health experts warn that without stronger regulation and community vigilance, the country risks a deepening public health crisis.
As investigations continue, the Tamale bust serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for coordinated action between law enforcement, health authorities, and civil society to stem the tide of illicit drug trafficking.
Story Written By Prince Asante Kwarteng | Kobby Kyei News
