Home Office International Operations has presented an advanced drug detection equipment worth GBP 56,752 to the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC)
The equipment, an Agilent Resolve Raman Analyzer is designed to enable rapid and safe identification of suspected narcotic substances during law enforcement operations. The technology allows officers to test substances directly on the field without the need to transport samples to laboratories, significantly improving operational efficiency and safety.
The Regional Manager, West Africa for HOIO in Accra, Ian Cunliffe, formally handed over the equipment during a brief ceremony, highlighting the importance of continued collaboration in combating organized crime.
He explained that the equipment would enhance the operational capabilities of NACOC officers in detecting dangerous substances during enforcement activities.
“We recognise the practical contribution to the important work that your officers carry out every day to protect Ghana and the wider region,” Mr. Cunliffe said.
He noted that the collaboration between HOIO and NACOC has developed over several years and continues to be built on mutual trust and professionalism.
Mr. Cunliffe further emphasized that the partnership also involves cooperation with the National Crime Agency in addressing cross-border criminal activities.
“Our teams cooperate closely with the National Crime Agency, and this donation reflects our shared commitment to supporting Ghana’s efforts against organised crime,” he noted.
Receiving the equipment on behalf of NACOC, Deputy Director-General in charge of Enforcement, Control and Elimination, Lawyer Alexander Twum-Barimah expressed appreciation to HOIO for the gesture.
He described the donation as timely and important in strengthening the Commission’s operational capabilities in the fight against narcotics trafficking.
“We are grateful for this kind gesture and the continued support from our partners,” he said.
Mr. Twum-Barimah also emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration between NACOC and international partners to address the evolving nature of organized crime.
While thanking HOIO for the equipment, he appealed for further support in the area of capacity building for NACOC personnel.
“NACOC will also appreciate similar gestures in the future, particularly support for specialized training programmes for our intelligence and undercover officers to further boost their operational efficiency,” he stated.
Mr. Twum-Barimah noted that strengthening intelligence gathering and covert operations is essential in combating increasingly sophisticated drug trafficking networks.
