Security Consultant Dr Ishmael Norman has raised concerns about Ghana’s ability to detect illicit drugs at its ports, revealing that less than 15% of containers undergo physical inspection.

According to him, although authorities have the capacity to scan containers, the sheer volume of cargo makes it difficult to physically inspect every container, resulting in a system that relies heavily on random checks.

Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express on September 16, 2026, Dr Norman said containers involved in transshipment to Sahelian countries, as well as those returning from such routes, are particularly vulnerable because they are hardly subjected to thorough inspection.

“It’s less than 15% when it comes to the physical inspection of the containers,” he stated.

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He warned that the limited inspection rate creates opportunities for organised drug trafficking networks to exploit weaknesses within Ghana’s security system.

Dr Norman said drug dealers are highly organised and sophisticated and continuously study weaknesses in institutions responsible for preventing the trafficking of narcotics.

He also called for a review of Ghana’s drug enforcement and security architecture, arguing that the fragmented responsibilities among agencies such as Customs, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), the Food and Drugs Authority, the Ghana Standards Authority and National Security could be undermining efforts to combat drug trafficking.

He said Ghana must strengthen coordination among the agencies and ensure that relevant institutions are routinely involved in container inspections rather than being called in only after suspicious items have been detected.

His comments come amid renewed concerns over recent cocaine seizures and the reported trafficking of narcotics through Ghana.

MRA/MA

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