National Security has launched an operation to remove a popular toxic herbal drink, known as ‘Madara Sukudai’, from the streets of Kumasi, Ashanti Region. The move follows laboratory tests by the Department of Pharmacology at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) revealing the drink contains harmful chemicals, including acetone, zinc chloride, and ethanol.

The concoction, commonly sold in Zongos and auto mechanic shops by some Nigerien nationals and Ghanaians, is believed by consumers to have heart-cleansing properties.

However, acute toxicity tests on laboratory rats showed that all rats given low, medium, or high doses died within 24 hours.

The drink also melted plastic containers.

Professor Cynthia Amaning Danquah explained that acetone is a solvent found in nail polish remover, zinc chloride is corrosive and used in batteries and wood preservation, and ethanol is a common alcohol.

She warned the public to avoid the drink due to risks of gastrointestinal irritation and potential liver and kidney damage.

Further chronic toxicity tests are ongoing.

Ashanti Regional Deputy Security Coordinator Alhaji Njeh Abdallah Umar led the arrest of a trader supplying chemicals used in the drink.

He described the presence of Sukudai as a national security concern, noting that sellers themselves avoid consuming it.

Consultant nephrologist Elliot Koranteng Tannor cautioned that the corrosive properties of the drink could damage the gut, liver, and kidneys.

He also highlighted that inconsistent dosages on the streets pose additional public health risks.

National Security’s Ashanti regional office is coordinating with counterparts to eliminate the sale of Sukudai across Ghana.