The Executive Secretary of the Lands Commission of Ghana, Prof. Anthony Owusu-Ansah, has reaffirmed the Commission’s support for efforts to combat proceeds from organized crime, particularly drug trafficking.
He made this statement when a delegation led by the Director-General of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Brig. Gen. Maxwell Obuba Mantey paid a courtesy call on the Management of the Lands Commission.
According to him, the Commission is ready to partner with key state investigative agencies to examine landed properties suspected to have been acquired with proceeds from drug trafficking.
Prof. Owusu-Ansah added that, the Commission remains committed to cooperating with investigative bodies to identify and isolate landed properties believed to be connected to organized crime, enabling their confiscation by the state.
“The Commission has, over the years, collaborated with investigative agencies such as EOCO and others to verify property ownership of suspects under their investigations. We will not hesitate to assign officers to assist NACOC in managing its cases,” he emphasized.
Brig. Gen. Maxwell Obuba Mantey commended the Management of the Lands Commission for its willingness to support NACOC in conducting investigations on individuals in custody who are suspected of acquiring properties through the illicit drug trade.
He noted that the collaboration will help expedite the process of verifying asset declarations by suspects under investigation, as well as those who stand as sureties during bail procedures.
He further expressed concern about the growing drug abuse and trafficking problem among the youth and appealed to key stakeholders in society to support NACOC in curbing the menace.
Judith Twumwaa, ISD
