Customs Foils GH₵20m Opioid Smuggling Attempt at Tema Port
Authorities intercept massive drug shipment bound for Niger, as the government vows to tighten security and combat illicit opioid trafficking through Ghana’s ports.
The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), in collaboration with key stakeholders, has intercepted a container loaded with opioid drugs worth approximately GH₵20 million at the Tema Port.
The confiscated shipment contained:
- Rahol Tapentadol 250 mg – 26 cartons
- Tafradol Tapentadol 120 mg – 160 cartons
- Timaking Tapentadol 120 mg – 40 cartons
- Loperamide 2 mg – 190 cartons
- Chlorpheniramine Maleate – 320 cartons
Officials disclosed that the consignment was bound for Niger.
Government Cracks Down on Opioid Trafficking
During a press briefing at Tema Port, Minister of Health Kwabena Mintah Akandoh reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preventing Ghana from becoming a conduit for opioid smuggling.
“We are keen on facilitating trade, but Ghana will not be a safe haven for illicit opioids. The president is personally invested in this matter—on my way here, he called me twice, highlighting its urgency,” he stated.
Authorities have vowed to strengthen regulations and intensify surveillance at the country’s ports to combat illegal drug shipments.
