The Nalerigu Circuit Court, presided over by His Honor Francis Ayamwuni Asobayire, has delivered a strong message in the fight against drug abuse and illegal drug distribution in the North East Region. In a series of rulings, the court ordered the destruction of large quantities of confiscated Tramadol and imposed significant penalties— including heavy fines and long prison sentences—on individuals convicted of unlawfully possessing the restricted drug.
The ruling reaffirms the enforcement of the Health Professions Regulatory Bodies Act, 2013 (Act 857), which regulates the possession, handling, and distribution of controlled substances across the country. Authorities have described the judgment as a clear commitment to dismantling illegal drug networks and curbing the alarming misuse of Tramadol in the region.
A Firm Stand Against Drug Offenses
The Circuit Court concluded several cases involving individuals arrested for possessing Tramadol without lawful authority. The sentences handed down demonstrate a strict institutional stance, reflecting the growing concern over the health and security risks associated with the illegal drug trade.
Case Summaries
Case 1: The Republic v. Abdul-Ganiu Atibela Kutam
Abdul-Ganiu Atibela Kutam, a 30-year-old nurse, was found guilty of possessing nine boxes of Tramadol (120mg) without the required authorization. He was charged under Section 110(h) of Act 857.
The court imposed a fine of 3,000 penalty units, failing which Kutam will serve 10 years in prison. He was also directed to sign a bond of good behavior, reflecting the seriousness of the offense especially given his position as a health professional.
Case 2: The Republic v. Mumuni Iddrisu and Alhassan Braimah
In what was the most significant seizure among the cases, 53-year-old farmer Mumuni Iddrisu and 29-year-old driver’s mate Alhassan Braimah were convicted of conspiracy and unlawful possession of restricted drugs. Law enforcement retrieved 1,520 boxes of Tramadol Hydrochloride (120mg) and 4,497 sachets hidden in yellow gallons.
Both men were sentenced to 10 years imprisonment, in addition to a 5,000 penalty unit fine. Failure to pay the fine could result in another 10 years of imprisonment with hard labor, underscoring the gravity of their offenses.
Case 3: The Republic v. Salisu Adam
Salisu Adam, a 37-year-old porter, was convicted of possessing six boxes of Tramadol Hydrochloride (120mg) and five sachets of Tramadol Hydrochloride (250mg), popularly known as “Red.”
Adam received a fine of 2,000 penalty units, with a 9-year prison term in default. He must also sign a 24-month bond of good behavior.
Court Orders Destruction of Confiscated Tramadol
Beyond sentencing, the court issued a directive for all confiscated Tramadol to be destroyed, ensuring the drugs do not find their way back onto the streets. The destruction was carried out under the supervision of regulatory agencies to meet environmental and safety standards.
NACOC Reaffirms Commitment
The North East Regional Commander of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Sadiq Miqdad, welcomed the judgment, describing it as a crucial step in the region’s fight against drug abuse. He encouraged the public to work closely with law enforcement by providing information to help combat drug-related activities.
Commander Miqdad also praised the Nayiri, Overlord of the Mamprugu Kingdom, for his unwavering support in tackling illicit drug use, urging the community’s youth task force to continue their vital role in safeguarding the region.