Two British citizens have been arrested in Ghana after being accused of attempting to smuggle $6.48 million (£5 million) worth of cocaine from Accra to London. Authorities seized approximately 166 kilograms (366 pounds) of cocaine at Kotoka International Airport in Accra on Monday. The suspects were scheduled to board a British Airways flight to London Gatwick Airport.

According to Ghana’s Narcotic Control Commission, the cocaine was concealed in 72 slabs distributed across six suitcases. This operation was conducted jointly by the Ghanaian commission and the UK Crime Agency.

Ghana has become a significant transit point for illegal drug trafficking to Europe and the United States.

This status has led authorities to intensify surveillance efforts at the country’s ports. In 2022, Ghanaian authorities reported a substantial increase in drug seizures, with a record-breaking total of 59.9 kilograms of illicit drugs found.

The recent arrest highlights ongoing efforts to curb the illegal drug trade and enhance security measures at critical transit points.