Businesswoman charged after police uncover suspected cannabis-laced drinks, products

A 45-year-old businesswoman has been brought before an Accra Circuit Court after police investigators uncovered what they describe as a small-scale operation producing drinks and confectionery allegedly infused with cannabis.

Millicent Asamoah Ampofo was arraigned last Tuesday on a provisional charge of unlawful control of a narcotic drug, following an intelligence-led operation by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service.

Police raided her drinking spot in Taifa on 5 November 2025, where they said they found a range of bottled beverages, sweets and raw materials suspected to contain cannabis. The items have now been handed over to the Police Forensic Science Laboratory for scientific analysis, delaying the taking of her plea.

Investigators reported that the search suggested “a structured micro-production line”, with products allegedly prepared and sold on-site.

Items seized included:

Prosecutors told the court that during questioning, Ampofo admitted ownership of all items seized and acknowledged producing and selling the substances herself. She also identified her alleged supplier only as “Richard,” said to be based in Accra.

Police say efforts are underway to track down the individual and dismantle any broader supply network.

The case was heard by Circuit Court judge Kwabena Kodua Obiri-Yeboah, who imposed strict bail terms owing to the seriousness of the allegations. Ampofo was granted GH₵50,000 bail with one surety.

Although the prosecution did not oppose bail, the judge ruled that tighter controls were necessary until the laboratory tests confirm whether narcotic substances were indeed present. The results could determine whether the charge moves from provisional to substantive.

The court has instructed prosecutors to file all disclosures to the defence before the next hearing, ensuring both sides have access to the forensic report once available.