The Africa Center for Security and Counterterrorism (ACSC) has praised the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) for its successful interception of cocaine valued at over $360 million.
In their statement, the ACSC emphasized that this accomplishment underscores the capability and vigilance of Ghana’s security forces in combating transnational crime. It is an essential step in protecting the country from the destructive effects of drug trafficking and organized crime.
The ACSC released a statement on Friday, March 28, acknowledging the achievement but also highlighting the importance of greater transparency and accountability in handling high-profile drug seizures and financial crime investigations.
While the cocaine bust is a significant victory, the ACSC expressed concern that, like previous cases, this may fade from public view without any real accountability to the people of Ghana. They pointed out that just last month, National Security intercepted containers containing large sums of U.S. dollars and gold, yet the public remains unaware of the investigation’s progress.
The ACSC noted, “The public remains uninformed about the status of the investigation into the seized containers containing substantial sums of U.S. dollars and gold.” This lack of transparency has eroded public trust in security institutions and raised doubts about the effectiveness of the criminal justice system.
Despite this, the ACSC commended the diligence of Ghana’s security agencies in intercepting illegal goods and combating criminal activity. However, they stressed that national security involves not only successful operations but also transparent processes that build public trust. “The foundation of our democracy rests on the principle that institutions are accountable to the people they serve,” the ACSC stated.
The ACSC urged the National Investigations Bureau and other relevant authorities to take the following actions:
- Full Public Disclosure – Provide an update on the $360 million cocaine seizure, including information on those involved and the legal process.
- Accountability for Previous Seizures – Release a public report on the containers seized last month, which were allegedly carrying U.S. dollars and gold, along with updates on other major drug and financial crime investigations.
- Legal and Judicial Transparency – Ensure that these cases are progressing through the judicial system with integrity.
- Parliamentary Oversight – The ACSC called on Ghana’s Parliament, particularly the Defence and Interior Committee, to oversee these cases and ensure security operations remain transparent.
The ACSC believes that Ghana’s democratic institutions thrive when accountability and transparency are prioritized.
The ACSC expressed confidence that Ghana’s security agencies can balance operational effectiveness with public accountability, ensuring that the citizens are properly informed about cases of national importance.
They also urged civil society organizations, media, and the public to remain engaged in advocating for transparent processes that will strengthen Ghana’s democratic institutions.
“Our security agencies must be accountable to the people they serve,” the ACSC concluded.
