A new batch of recruits for the Narcotics Control Commission has graduated from the Naval Recruit Training School at Nutekpor in the Volta Region.

Delivering a keynote address at the ceremony, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, Minister for the Interior, charged the graduating recruits to remain steadfast in their mission to protect the country from the scourge of illicit drugs and emphasized that the recruits’ badge is a stewardship of hope and should never be used as a ticket for impunity.

“Your actions must symbolize justice, compassion, integrity and the resolve that upholds the core values of the Commission. “I implore you to resist corruption, uphold confidentiality, be diligent, and honour the oath enshrined in Section 35 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act of 2020,’ the Minister stated.

He assured the recruits of his full commitment to supporting the Commission in realising its objectives, promising to provide the necessary logistics and policy direction to guarantee success. He also saluted the staff and instructors for their discipline, professionalism and sacrifice in moulding the recruits into what they are today.

The graduating recruits have undergone rigorous training in key intelligence activities, drug pharmacology, profiling techniques, document fraud detection and tactical security operations. They are now equipped to take on the challenges of combating illicit drug trafficking and abuse in Ghana.

As they embark on their new roles, the Minister urged the recruits to rise to the occasion and let their actions reflect the strength and core values of their training. “Let every citizen feel your presence, your protection and your resolve to make Ghana great,” he said.

The Minister congratulated the recruits on behalf of the President of the Republic and wished them all the best in their new working environment. “Go forth with purpose, serve with honour, and never forget that when you protect our motherland from drugs, you protect her future,” Hon. Muntaka stated.

The graduation ceremony marks a significant step forward in Ghana’s fight against illicit drugs, and the recruits are expected to play a key role in the country’s efforts to combat the menace.

The passing out ceremony, which high-ranking government officials and security personnel attended, marked the culmination of six months of intense training for the recruits.A total of 189 Cadets have officially been inducted into service to support Ghana’s ongoing efforts to combat narcotic drug trafficking and related crimes.

The induction, held at the Eastern Naval Command, marked a significant collaboration between the Leadership Training School (LTS) and the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC).

The event, which featured the ceremonial swearing of an oath of allegiance, signified the commitment of the new recruits to serve the nation with dedication and uphold the values of integrity and national security.

The training, led by the Commanding Officer of LTS, is designed to build the capacity of cadets by focusing on the fundamentals of narcotics law and enforcement. The course places particular emphasis on confidence-building, professional discipline, and a thorough understanding of legal procedures necessary for their roles in narcotics control.

As part of the induction, NACOC leadership underscored the importance of adherence to institutional rules and the responsible handling of classified information. The Commission reiterated its mission to disrupt the narcotics trade and act as a stabilizing force in communities vulnerable to the influence of drug-related activities.

NACOC reaffirmed its commitment to making Ghana an unattractive hub for drug trafficking, prioritizing public safety and the protection of the nation’s borders. Calls have also been made for increased government support to enhance the Commission’s operational capacity, including the recruitment of additional personnel and the provision of improved financial and logistical resources.

The new cadets are expected to play a key role in reinforcing the Commission’s enforcement operations across the country.