The Nalerigu Circuit Court presided over by His Honor Francis Ayamwuni Asobayire, has ordered the destruction of confiscated Tramadol and handed down prison sentences to individuals found guilty of possessing restricted drugs.
The ruling underscores the commitment to enforcing the Health Professions Regulatory Bodies Act, 2013 (Act 857) and combating the illegal distribution of controlled substances within the North East Region.
The Nalerigu Circuit Court has concluded several cases involving the unlawful possession of Tramadol. The court’s rulings reflect a stern stance against drug related offenses, with significant penalties imposed on the convicted.
Case 1: The Republic v. Abdul-Ganiu Atibela Kutam
Abdul-Ganiu Atibela Kutam, a 30-year-old nurse, was found guilty of violating Section 110(h) of the Health Professions Regulatory Bodies Act, 2013 (Act 857) for possessing nine boxes of Tramadol (120mg) without lawful authority.
The court ordered Kutam to pay a fine of 3000 penalty units. In default, he will serve a 10-year prison sentence. Additionally, Kutam is required to sign a bond of good behavior.
Case 2: The Republic v. Mumuni Iddrisu and Alhassan Braimah
Mumuni Iddrisu, a 53-year-old farmer, and Alhassan Braimah, a 29-year-old driver’s mate, faced charges of conspiracy to commit a crime and unlawful possession of restricted drugs. The charges stemmed from the discovery of 1,520 boxes of Tramadol Hydrochloride (120mg), along with 4,497 sachets, concealed in yellow gallons.
Iddrisu and Braimah were found guilty on both counts. They were sentenced to 10 years imprisonment and a fine of 5000 penalty units. Failure to pay the fine will result in an additional 10 years of imprisonment with hard labor.
Case 3: The Republic v. Salisu Adam
Salisu Adam, a 37-year-old porter, was convicted of possessing six boxes of Tramadol Hydrochloride (120mg) and five sachets of Tramadol Hydrochloride (250mg), commonly known as “Red,” without lawful authority.
The court imposed a fine of 2000 penalty units. In default, Adam will serve a 9-year prison term and is required to sign a bond of good behavior for 24 months.
In addition to the sentences, the Nalerigu Circuit Court issued an order for the destruction of all confiscated Tramadol.
This measure, according to the court aims to prevent the drugs from re-entering the market. The destruction was carried out under the supervision of relevant regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with environmental and safety standards.
Meanwhile, the North East Regional Commander for Narcotics Control Commission, Sadiq Miqdad has reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to fighting restricted drugs within the North East region.
He urged citizens to collaborate with the commission by providing information and support to combat drug related issues.
He commended the overlord of the Mamprugu Kingdom, the Nayiri, for his support and commitment towards the fight against the use of illicit drugs and urged the youth task force to continue their good work in combating drug use.
By Solomon Kwame Kanaluwe
