A group of volunteers in Tamale, known as the Aboabo Pilots-Fong, have confiscated and burned a large amount of Tramadol 120 and 225, valued at over GH¢700,000.
Tramadol is a powerful painkiller that can cause addiction, overdose, and death. It can also affect the brain and nervous system, leading to seizures and breathing problems. The use of Tramadol and other drugs has increased significantly in Tamale and its surroundings in recent years.
Jamal Yahaya Iddi, the leader of the volunteer group, told reporters how they tracked down and caught the drug dealer.
“We got a tip-off and followed the dealer from Accra for more than a week before we found him at his home with the drug.”
He said the group is determined to eliminate drug dealers from Tamale.
“Tamale is becoming a hotspot for drug trafficking, which is a big threat to our future. If we don’t stop them now, this town will be ruined in five years.
“We are committed to doing this work and God willing, we will expose them and make sure they face justice.”
He also expressed concern about how Tramadol is harming the youth.
“Tramadol is destroying the youth. They are going crazy and acting abnormal. We all have to work together to stop this.”
The volunteer group was formed in January this year by the Gulkpe Naa of Tamale, with the support of other stakeholders.
The group’s aim is to reduce the intake of Tramadol and other harmful drugs.
The group has seized and burned several batches of drugs since then.
The Aboabo forest in Tamale has become a notorious place for drug activities.
In Ghana, only 50 and 100 grams of Tramadol are approved for use.
However, many young people are using 120 and 225 grams of Tramadol, which are damaging their health.
