Former Finance Minister and Karaga MP, Dr Mohammed Amin Adam, has called for greater public support in the fight against drug abuse, arguing that law enforcement agencies are often hindered by interference.
Speaking at a public event, Dr Amin Adam said Ghana already has regulations to address drug abuse, but enforcing them has remained a challenge.
“We have regulations to combat the abuse of substances and drugs. Fortunately, enforcement has been challenging. Enforcement is challenging also because of people’s interference.”
He recalled the work of the former Black Maria unit, saying public opposition contributed to its withdrawal.
“I remember this group, Black Maria, which was here and helping to enforce the laws on drugs. A couple of people mobilised and lobbied for that to be withdrawn.”
According to him, some of the same people who express concern about drug abuse also discourage enforcement efforts.
“It is us, the very people who do not want to lose our youth to drugs, who are discouraging law enforcement agencies from enforcing the rules.”
Dr Amin Adam said addressing the problem would require cooperation from all sections of society.
“It will take all of us, concerted effort by all of us, all hands on deck, to collaborate and complement each other’s effort so that enforcement can be done smoothly.”
