Yeji, Bono East Region — Police in Yeji in the Pru East District of the Bono East Region have intercepted a commercial bus allegedly transporting 396 parcels of dried leaves suspected to be cannabis, following a targeted intelligence-led operation.

The interception occurred on Sunday, January 11, when officers, acting on sustained intelligence and surveillance, stopped a Tata bus with registration number GR 3232 L near the Barrier area in front of the Yeji Police Station.

The driver of the vehicle, Seidu Alhassan, and his mate, Issah Osman, were arrested to assist ongoing investigations aimed at identifying the owner and source of the suspected narcotics.

A search conducted on the bus led to the discovery of several sacks containing dried leaves believed to be cannabis. The substances were later counted and confirmed to be 396 parcels.

According to the police, preliminary investigations suggest that the suspected drugs were transported from Bimbilla in the Northern Region, passed through Kumasi in the Ashanti Region, and were intended for further distribution.

Speaking to journalists, the Yeji District Police Commander, DSP Ahenkrah, said intelligence reports had indicated that the vehicle was conveying illegal drugs. He disclosed that the driver initially denied knowledge of the cargo until the sacks were offloaded and inspected by officers.

DSP Ahenkrah added that the bus has since been impounded, while the seized substances are being kept as exhibits. Arrangements are underway to forward the items to the Police Forensic Science Laboratory for analysis.

The driver and his mate remain in police custody as investigations continue. DSP Ahenkrah reaffirmed the Ghana Police Service’s commitment to combating drug trafficking and ensuring that persons involved in the illicit drug trade are brought to justice.