Upper West Regional Police Commander DCOP Nii Darko Offei Lomotey has urged stakeholders to abandon past recriminations and unite against drug abuse.
Speaking as Chairman of the Regional Anti-Drug Abuse Taskforce, Lomotey emphasized collaboration over blame during a stakeholder engagement in Wa.
Lomotey declared the time for action is immediate, stating stakeholders must move beyond historical disagreements. The task force, formed by the Regional Minister under Lomotey’s leadership, coordinates efforts against trafficking, abuse, and related crimes across Upper West.
The commander advocated a comprehensive strategy prioritizing rehabilitation over punishment. Lomotey argued addicts require support, not solely incarceration, warning that arrests without proper care could lead to unintended fatalities. He described individuals struggling with addiction as victims needing societal assistance.
Lomotey appealed for public cooperation in targeting major drug suppliers. He stressed dismantling the entire supply chain importers, distributors, and local dealers is essential to reducing the regional drug menace. The commander emphasized this crisis impacts all generations, requiring collective community involvement.
Some participants expressed frustration over perceived failures to prosecute previously apprehended suspects. Lomotey framed the task force as a fresh start for Ghana’s anti-drug campaign. He invited civil society, religious leaders, traditional authorities, and citizens to join the initiative, asserting division only benefits criminals.
