Five students of Central University (CU) have been arrested by operatives of Ghana’s Narcotics Control Commission (NACO) for allegedly operating a cannabis production and distribution network on the campus.
The university confirmed the development in a statement issued on Friday, after reports emerged that the students were taken into custody by NACOC operatives over suspected drug-related activities linked to events organised as part of the institution’s Students’ Representative Council (SRC) Week celebrations.
According to the statement signed by the Registrar, the university management has begun engaging the anti-narcotics agency and other relevant authorities to establish the full facts surrounding the incident.
“At this stage, the University is engaging with NACOC and other relevant authorities to establish the facts and obtain verified information regarding the circumstances surrounding the matter”, the statement read.
The institution said it would refrain from making further comments while investigations remain ongoing, stressing the need to allow law enforcement authorities to complete their work without interference or public speculation.
The five suspects, believed to be students in Levels 100, 300 and 400, were arrested following intelligence gathered by narcotics officers concerning alleged illicit drug activities taking place within the university community.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the students were allegedly engaged in the production and sale of cannabis-infused products disguised as regular consumables. The items included cannabis-laced ice cream, sobolo drinks, toffees, pepper and eggs, while authorities also alleged that the suspects were dealing directly in raw cannabis.
Security operatives reportedly uncovered quantities of suspected narcotic substances during the operation, all of which have since been confiscated and forwarded for forensic examination as investigators seek to determine the scale of the operation.
NACOC reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to intensifying the crackdown on drug-related activities within educational institutions, warning students against involvement in the trafficking, sale or consumption of illegal narcotic substances.
Meanwhile, Central University has announced the immediate suspension of all outstanding SRC Week activities, describing the move as a precautionary step to safeguard order and maintain security on campus.
The university said the decision was necessary pending a comprehensive review of the circumstances surrounding the incident, as well as an assessment of existing event management and student safety protocols.
We assured students, parents, alumni, and members of the public that we are cooperating fully with the authorities and remain committed to maintaining discipline, safety, and institutional integrity.