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Customs officials in the Northern Region have intercepted a large quantity of restricted goods, including illicit cigarettes and controlled pharmaceuticals, following a targeted operation by the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
The operation, conducted along the Nanton-Gushegu road on February 11, 2025, resulted in the seizure of 450 boxes of Business Royal Cigarettes and five boxes of Tapentadol tablets, with an estimated duty value of GH¢20.6 million.
Acting on intelligence about a vehicle transporting illegal goods, a customs task force set up a checkpoint on the Gaha-Gushegu road. However, the suspect vehicle, bearing registration number GS 7592-13, failed to stop and sped past the checkpoint, prompting a swift pursuit.
Upon interception, the driver refused to disclose the nature of the cargo, insisting that only the owner could provide details. Shortly after, an individual claiming ownership arrived on a motorbike but also declined to comment on the consignment.
The vehicle was later transported to the Tamale Collection Regional Headquarters for further examination. Despite being summoned for an official cargo inspection the following day, both the driver and the alleged owner failed to appear.
A thorough search conducted on February 19 confirmed that the vehicle was carrying highly restricted goods requiring proper import permits. Since no valid documentation was provided, customs officials officially seized the items under Notice of Seizure Number 248806 on February 25, 2025.
Brigadier General Zibrim Bawah Ayorrogo, Commissioner of Customs, visited the Tamale Collection Regional Headquarters to assess the situation, emphasizing the importance of inter-agency collaboration in tackling smuggling.
“We have intensified efforts with National Security, the Narcotics Control Commission, and other agencies to curb this menace, even if much of the work goes unnoticed,” he stated.
Despite increased enforcement, the smuggling of illicit drugs and contraband products remains a challenge, fueling concerns over rising substance abuse among the youth. Customs officials have vowed to enhance surveillance at ports and border crossings to disrupt smuggling networks and prevent the influx of illegal goods.
The case has been handed over to the Narcotics Control Commission for further investigation, with legal action expected against those implicated in the illegal trade. Authorities remain committed to tackling smuggling and safeguarding public health and security.
