INCB deploys its new SNOOP platform to support Ghanaian investigators in countering
online synthetic opioid trafficking
Accra, Ghana, 26-28 February 2026
Picture 1: GRIDS Programme Regional Technical Officer leading the training session
The International Narcotics Control Board (INCB), through its Global Rapid Interdiction of Dangerous Substances (GRIDS) Programme, conducted a three-day specialized training in Accra aimed at strengthening the capacity of Ghanaian authorities to detect, analyse, and investigate the online trafficking of dangerous substances, including new psychoactive substances (NPS), non-medical synthetic opioids, and falsified pharmaceuticals.
The activity was organized in close cooperation with the Government of Ghana and brought together 12 frontline investigators, including 10 officers from the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) and 2 from the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA). The training aims to expand access to Scanning Novel Opioids on Online Platforms (SNOOP), the GRIDS’ online monitoring platform, and to enhance national investigative and analytical capabilities further.
The opening session featured remarks by Mr. Solomon Oye, the NACOC Director of Investigations, who reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to strengthening investigative capacities and inter-agency cooperation in response to the growing challenge of online drug trafficking.
On behalf of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), Mr. Clarence Duncan underscored the importance of such capacity-building initiatives, noting that early detection and online investigations are critical to disrupting trafficking networks at their source, before illicit substances reach consumers.
Ms. Devonne West, representing the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), highlighted the operational nature of the cooperation between the DEA and the INCB-GRIDS Programme. She presented the DEA’s mandate and core missions and outlined key areas of support for Ghanaian agencies, emphasizing practical cooperation and information sharing.
The rest of the first day was dedicated to refresher sessions on the Project ION Incident Communication System (IONICS) and GRIDS Intelligence through real-time practical exercises.
Picture 2: Participants refreshing their knowledge of IONICS and GRIDS Intelligence through real-time group activities
The second and third days focused on enhancing participants’ operational awareness of online drug trafficking trends, indicators, and criminal methodologies. Through technical presentations, hands-on group work using INCB-GRIDS tools, including SNOOP, and case-based discussions, participants strengthened their ability to identify suspicious online activity, analyse digital evidence, and support intelligence-led investigations.
The trainees benefited from the active contribution of the DEA and the INL law enforcement advisor, who shared practical experience and operational insights throughout the three days.
The training strongly emphasized inter-agency cooperation, bringing together drug control, regulatory, and law enforcement authorities to promote coordinated and effective responses to online drug trafficking.
Picture 3: Participants discovering and familiarizing themselves with SNOOP
Building on previous INCB GRIDS engagements in Ghana and across the region, the activity further strengthened national capacities and reinforced the foundations for sustained cooperation. The INCB GRIDS Programme will continue to support Ghanaian authorities through follow-up activities, operational cooperation, and regional initiatives.
This event was made possible through generous support from the United States Department of State Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (U.S. INL).
The Board's Global Rapid Interdiction of Dangerous Substances (GRIDS) Programme operates under the International Narcotics Control Board's unique Article 35 (1961) treaty mandate that supports Governments' capabilities to exchange information on trafficking, illicit manufacture, marketing and sales of NPS, synthetic opioids, fentanyls and related chemicals, by providing real-time communication, and capabilities to facilitate information exchange and intelligence development with the aim to interdict distribution of dangerous substances.
Click here to learn more about the GRIDS Programme
Click here to learn more about the OPIOIDS Project
Click here to learn more about the Project ION
