On May 3, 2024, the High Court sentenced 32-year-old Nigerian national Pascal Okafor Ezugwu to 10 years of hard labor and a fine of 10,000 penalty units for attempting to smuggle 90 thumb-sized cocaine pellets weighing 1.54 kg.
Failure to pay the fine will result in an additional three years of imprisonment.
Okafor Ezugwu was arrested by NACOC officials at Kotoka International Airport on February 21, 2024, while preparing to board a flight to Hanoi, Vietnam.
A urine test revealed traces of narcotic substances, and subsequent observation led to the expulsion of 90 cocaine pellets.
He was charged with three counts of narcotic offenses, including unlawful possession, attempted exportation, and money laundering.
The accused pleaded guilty to all counts and was convicted on his own plea. The court directed the destruction of the exhibit under the supervision of concerned parties, including the court registrar, state prosecutors, and defense counsel.
NACOC has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the public from illicit drug trafficking and use.
The agency emphasized that possession, usage, and transportation of illegal drugs without lawful authorization are prohibited under the Narcotics Control Commission Act 2020.
The public is urged to be aware of the consequences and risks associated with such activities.
The High Court’s decision sends a strong message about the serious consequences of drug trafficking and the ongoing efforts to combat illegal narcotic activities in Ghana.
