The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), in collaboration with the UK National Crime Agency, successfully thwarted a significant drug trafficking attempt at Accra’s Kotoka International Airport.
Acting on intelligence, officers intercepted 166.88 kilograms of suspected cocaine on Monday, June 10, 2024, from the luggage of two British passengers traveling together.
According to a NACOC statement, the seized narcotics have an estimated street value of $6.48 million. The detainees were identified as Hall Shamin Ethline and Graham Omar Adel.
The two suspects were about to board a British Airways flight to Gatwick when their luggage raised suspicions. Upon further inspection, all six of their suitcases – three each – were found to contain a total of 72 slabs of the suspected cocaine.
A breakdown of the seizure revealed that Hall Shamin Ethline’s luggage contained approximately 83.44 kilograms of suspected cocaine alongside personal belongings. Similarly, Graham Omar Adel’s luggage also contained roughly 83.44 kilograms of suspected cocaine along with his personal items.
Both individuals have been arrested and are currently assisting with investigations.
Read the entire statement below:
NACOC IMPOUND 166.88KG OF COCAINE; TWO ARRESTED
On Monday, June 10, 2024, an intelligence-led operation by Officers of the Narcotics Control Commission and the UK National Crime Agency led to the interception of a total of 166.88kg of substances suspected to be cocaine from the luggage of two British National passengers who were traveling together.
The substance is estimated to have a street value of $6,480,000. The British passengers are Hall Shamin Ethline, and Graham Omar Adel.
The suspects were scheduled to board a British Airways flight to Gatwick and checked in their luggage—three bags each, which were all found to contain 72 slabs of the suspected cocaine. A breakdown of the seizures made is as follows:
– Luggage of Hall Shamin Ethline contained a total of 83.44kg of suspected cocaine, along with her personal items.
– Luggage of Graham Omar Adel contained a total of 83.44kg of suspected cocaine, along with his personal items.
The two have accordingly been arrested and are assisting with investigations.
The bust reinforces the alertness of the NACOC, signaling their commitment to the safety of travelers and their preparedness to combat drug-related threats at the airport.