Accra: The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has organised a seminar for over 250 participants, mainly companies that deal with the handling of Precursor Controlled substances. The one-day seminar, facilitated by the Precursor Control Department of NACOC, was themed ‘Monitoring of Controlled Substances Through Effective Collaboration to Ensure Public Health and Safety.’ It aimed to promote transparency and accountability, fostering a sense of shared responsibility among stakeholders in addressing the threats posed by controlled substances to public health and safety.
According to Ghana News Agency, the platform provided stakeholders with access to essential information about policies on controlled substances and precursor chemicals, regulatory processes, and emerging trends to enhance compliance. Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, the Director-General of NACOC, commended participants for their interest and involvement in the seminar, marking the fourth edition hosted by the Commission. He emphasized the importance of monitoring controlled substances through collaboration to ensure robust public health and safety.
Brig Gen Mantey urged stakeholders to unite in addressing potential lapses that could result from diverted controlled substances reaching wrong hands, which could fuel illicit enterprises producing narcotics and psychotropic substances, posing a threat to society. He highlighted the need for protecting public health, ensuring community safety, and safeguarding the economy from illicit drug trafficking as primary objectives for industry players. Brig Gen Mantey noted the alarming rise in the non-medical use of prescription opioids, particularly tramadol, and the diversion of pharmaceuticals from legitimate supply chains to the illicit black market.
Mr Alexander Twum-Berimah, Deputy Director-General in charge of Enforcement, Control, and Elimination of NACOC, warned that those found violating the law would face legal consequences. He called on stakeholders to support the Commission in eliminating nefarious actors engaged in illegal activities related to the diversion of Precursor chemicals.
Participants received certificates and souvenirs, with several companies being recognized for their achievements. Richbay Chemicals Solutions Ltd, Hexagin Industries Ltd, Letap Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Jokams Ltd, Kofi Ababio and Sons Ltd, and Dannex Aryton Starwin PLC, MES Equipment Ltd, and Twellium Industrial Company Ltd were awarded for excellence in the CSR category. Quality Control Company Ltd and Jonsakyi Trading Enterprise were acknowledged for best interest compliance, while Mina Chemicals Ltd and Vehrad Transport and Haulage Company Ltd were recognized for advocacy excellence.
