The Ghana Police Service has clarified a recent misunderstanding involving personnel from the Ghana Armed Forces, the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, and the Ghana Police Service at the Missiga security checkpoint in Bawku, Upper East Region.
In a press statement signed by Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Grace Ansah-Akrofi, Director of Public Affairs, the Police explained the details of the operation and sought to reaffirm the collaborative role of the Police, particularly in fighting the smuggling of cocoa beans, which remains a critical issue in the region.
According to the press release, the Ghana Police Service intercepted the smuggled consignment of cocoa based on credible intelligence received earlier on October 9, 2024.
The consignment was being transported in a truck, which the Police had planned to escort to the Bawku Divisional Police Command.
“For the record, the Police recently intercepted smuggled cocoa beans on two occasions within the region.
“The intercepted consignments were handed over to COCOBOD, while the suspects are currently being prosecuted by the Police.”
ACP Grace Ansah-Akrofi, Director of Public Affairs
The press statement emphasized that the culprits would be investigated, and brought to justice in accordance with the agreed-upon protocol between the Ghana Police Service and COCOBOD.
Assistant Commissioner Ansley-Akrofi emphasized that claims suggesting the police were facilitating the smuggling of cocoa consignments are entirely false. She stated, “It is, therefore, untrue that the Police were in any way facilitating the smuggled consignments, as being claimed.”
The misunderstanding that occurred at the Missiga security checkpoint involved personnel from the Ghana Armed Forces and the Customs Division of the GRA, alongside the Police officers escorting the intercepted truck.
Details surrounding the nature of the dispute remain unclear, but it is believed that the situation was triggered by differing interpretations of jurisdiction and operational responsibilities in handling the consignment.
Resolution Efforts at the National and Regional Levels
Following the incident, the leadership of the three state security institutions – the Ghana Armed Forces, the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, and the Ghana Police Service – quickly intervened at the national level to address the situation. This move aims to maintain harmony and restore cooperation among the agencies involved.
The Police acknowledged the importance of collaboration among state security agencies, especially in regions like the Upper East, where cross-border smuggling and criminal activities are prevalent.
“The Regional Security Council (REGSEC) under the chairmanship of the Upper East Regional Minister, is also meeting the personnel and their leaders at the regional level to complement the efforts made at the national level.”
ACP Grace Ansah-Akrofi, Director of Public Affairs
The Ghana Police Service expressed gratitude to the leadership of the Armed Forces and the Customs Division for their swift actions in resolving the matter and reiterated its commitment to working together to maintain peace and order.
The Upper East Region has long been identified as a key area for illicit cross-border trade, particularly in goods like cocoa, which is often smuggled to neighboring countries for higher profits.
The Police also called on the public to disregard any false claims suggesting their involvement in facilitating smuggling. They emphasized that their actions were in accordance with protocol and designed to support COCOBOD’s efforts in safeguarding the cocoa industry.
The incident served as a reminder of the importance of effective communication and collaboration between security institutions, especially when dealing with sensitive operations like the interception of smuggled goods.
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