The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has warned drivers against the use of drugs and energy-enhancing substances while behind the wheel, citing serious safety risks.

The Cape Coast Metropolitan Enforcement Head of NACOC, Assistant Narcotics Control Officer (ANCO) Andrew Garshong, said the practice endangers not only drivers but also passengers, pedestrians, and other road users.

He issued the caution during a joint road safety enforcement and education exercise at Beposo on the Takoradi–Cape Coast stretch of the N1 Highway.

The exercise was undertaken by the Western Regional Office of the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) in collaboration with its Central Regional counterpart, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service, and NACOC.

According to ANCO Garshong, some drivers resort to mixing energy drinks with alcohol and other substances in a bid to stay alert, a practice he described as dangerous.

“Some drivers mix energy drinks with alcohol and other substances to boost their energy, but these actions put all road users at risk. They must desist from such behaviour,” he cautioned.

Western Regional NRSA Head Victor Kojo Bilson noted that the increasing rate of road traffic crashes was becoming a national security concern, underscoring the need for intensified enforcement and public education.

He stressed that road safety was a shared responsibility and urged all road users, including drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and motorcyclists, to comply with safety regulations.

Mr Bilson further advised drivers to avoid excessive speeding, overloading, wrongful overtaking, and driving while fatigued. He also emphasised the importance of regular vehicle maintenance, particularly as traffic volumes increase during festive periods.

Also speaking at the exercise, Eric B. Owusu, a Technician Engineer at the Takoradi office of the DVLA, urged drivers to ensure their vehicles meet roadworthy standards and that all relevant documentation, including valid licences, is in order.