Ghana is being used as a transit point for heroin originating mainly from Afghanistan and cocaine supplied largely by Brazil, according to the 2025 Global Organised Crime Index.
The report identifies Ghana’s seaports and airports as key routes used by international drug trafficking networks to move narcotics into and out of the country, while also serving an expanding domestic market.
According to the report, heroin shipments entering and leaving Ghana are often linked to East African nationals. Some of the drugs are reportedly consumed locally, while a significant portion is repackaged and exported, including shipments destined for the United States.
The report also raises concerns about alleged corruption within Ghana’s transport infrastructure, claiming that some officials facilitate the movement of heroin through the country’s ports and airports.
It further notes that heroin distribution and consumption, which were historically concentrated in Accra and Tema, are believed to have expanded to other parts of the country, including rural communities in northern Ghana.
Ghanaian and Nigerian organised crime groups are identified in the report as important players in the expansion of heroin trafficking networks and illicit drug markets across West Africa.
The cocaine trade is similarly described as a major component of Ghana’s organised crime landscape. The report says Ghanaian criminal networks play a significant role in international cocaine trafficking.
Brazil is identified as the main source of cocaine arriving by sea. Shipments are allegedly concealed in legitimate cargo, including sugar consignments, and routed through trans-shipment locations such as Spain and Turkey before reaching Ghanaian ports.
The Port of Tema is identified as the principal entry point, with the Port of Takoradi also used to a lesser extent.
The report further cites allegations from law enforcement officials and civil society actors that political protection of illicit markets by some individuals within government could be contributing to declining cocaine seizures and reduced visibility of trafficking activities.
The findings highlight the continuing role of Ghana in regional and international drug trafficking networks.
