Police have arrested five people during an intelligence-led operation targeting suspected drug-related and other criminal activities in Tamale, seizing two pistols, ammunition, suspected narcotics and cash, authorities said Monday.

The operation was conducted by the Northern Regional Police Command’s Special Operations Team, known as “RED MARIA”, at the Tamale Aboabo Scrap Area following what police described as credible intelligence.

The five suspects were identified as Ibrahim Issahaku, 39; Mohamed John, 28; Mohamed Nawas, 25; Mohamed Osman Awal, 41; and Kwame Boateng, 28.

Police said John and Nawas were suspected drug users, while Boateng was suspected of dealing in narcotics.

Osman Awal, identified as the owner of the scrap business where the operation took place, was accused by police of harbouring suspected drug peddlers on the premises.

Pistols and narcotics seized
A search of Issahaku’s residence led to the seizure of two foreign-made pistols, two rounds of 9mm ammunition, a parcel of suspected Indian hemp and GH¢1,880 ($163) in cash.

Police also recovered GH¢18,825 concealed inside Boateng’s motorcycle, which they suspect could be proceeds from narcotics sales.

Other items seized included 123 wraps of suspected Indian hemp, 12 sachets of 1mg Rohypnol, seven sachets of 250mg Tramadol, 111 wraps of suspected “ashes” and three motorbikes.

The suspects and exhibits have been handed over to the Regional Drug Law Enforcement Unit for further investigation and action.

Police did not disclose whether the suspects had been formally charged.

The Northern Regional Police Command said it would continue intelligence-led operations aimed at disrupting illicit drug trafficking, drug use and other criminal activities in the region.

The allegations against the suspects have not been tested in court, and they are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.