Youth groups in Tamale have expressed serious concerns over the withdrawal of the Inspector General of Police’s (IGP) Special Operations Team, which has been at the forefront of efforts to combat the growing drug menace in the Northern Region.
According to reports, protesters have voiced strong opposition to the withdrawal of the IGP-directed task force, popularly known as “Black Maria,” warning that the move could undermine the fight against drug abuse and trafficking in the region.
The team had played a crucial role in curbing the spread of illegal drugs among young people in Tamale and surrounding communities, the youth groups said.
Further reports indicate that on Thursday night, March 5, 2026, the protesters visited traditional rulers and religious leaders in the city to express their dissatisfaction and seek their intervention to ensure the team remains in the region.
They also called on the Mayor of Tamale, Abu Takoro, at his residence in Lamashegu, urging him to intervene and use his office to help reverse the decision.
The youth assembled at the Global Dream Hotel, where the Special Operations Team was lodged, to show appreciation for their work and to openly oppose their removal from the city.
“There is no doubt that the presence of this team has helped curb the spread of drugs among our youth. Their withdrawal is worrying, and we call on authorities to reconsider this decision,” one protester stated.