The Minister for the Interior, Hon. Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak, has called on the youth in Zongo communities to shun drug abuse and resist the growing wave of substance misuse among young people.
Speaking during a community engagement in Accra with the Zongo Chief and local youth, the Minister highlighted the urgency of tackling the drug menace—particularly the use of a dangerous substance known locally as “Red.” He stressed that decisive action is needed, especially in Zongo communities, where the impact is increasingly devastating.
“In the face of the rampant drug crisis, we must act,” he said. “The youth in Zongo communities, just like any Ghanaian, have the potential to rise to become presidents, ministers, directors, or even generals. The only barriers are drugs, crime, and negative influences.”
He recounted his own humble beginnings and encouraged the youth not to let poverty or circumstance hinder their dreams. “I’m a proud son of Zongo. I carried many things on my head to pursue my dream. Look at our own brother who is now a Commissioner of Police—if he can do it, so can you.”
Hon. Muntaka was accompanied by his deputy, Hon. Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi; the Chief Director of the Ministry, Mrs. Doreen P. Annan; the Director-General of the Narcotics Control Commission, Brigadier General Maxwell Mantey; COP Mr. Iddi Lansah Seidu, Director-General Welfare, National Security; and other top officials.
The Sabon Zongo Chief Sarki Dr Alhaji Yahaya Hamisu Bako appealed to the minister to provide meaningful employment opportunities, vocational training, and educational scholarships for the youth to keep them engaged and away from harmful substances.
Hon. Muntaka revealed that the anti-drug campaign, which began in the Zongo community, is being expanded nationwide. He warned that drug dealers often disguise their operations behind legitimate businesses such as selling cocoa, chewing gum, or herbal products—but authorities are aware and ready to act.
“To those destroying our youth to get rich,” he said, “we are coming for you. You can no longer hide behind political affiliations, religious titles, or community status. Whether you are an imam, chief, or a family member of a political figure, if you engage in crime, we will act.”
The Minister also urged community members to refrain from taking the law into their own hands. “If you apprehend suspects, hand them over to the police. Do not destroy property or harm others.”
The Interior Ministry, together with the security services and the Narcotics Control Commission, has pledged full support in the ongoing fight against drug abuse across Ghana.
Story by Osman Issah Abadoo
