Ghanaian authorities have intercepted a massive shipment of opioids worth an estimated GH₵20 million at the Tema Port, in what officials are describing as a major breakthrough in the fight against illicit drug trafficking.
The seizure, led by the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) in collaboration with other stakeholders, uncovered a container packed with powerful opioid medications, including Tapentadol in various dosages, Loperamide, and Chlorpheniramine Maleate.
According to officials, the intercepted shipment included; Rahol Tapentadol 250 mg – 26 cartons, Tafradol Tapentadol 120 mg – 160 cartons, Timaking Tapentadol 120 mg – 40 cartons, Loperamide 2 mg – 190 cartons and Chlorpheniramine Maleate – 320 cartons
Speaking at a Press briefing at Tema Port, the minister of health Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh emphasized the government’s commitment to preventing Ghana from becoming a transit hub for illicit drugs.
The Minister made it clear that Ghana would not tolerate the importation or transit of unauthorized drugs through its borders.
“And so, we have the full support of His Excellency, the President. Number one, per our rules and regulations, by our laws, there are only two designated areas for the import and export of medication or drugs—Tema Port and Kotoka International Airport. Drugs are not imported through our land borders.”
Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh Health Minister
The Minister called on all security agencies and stakeholders to intensify their vigilance, instructing them to seize any medication being transported through unauthorized entry points.
Crackdown on Transit Drug Shipments
Hon. Akandoh further revealed that smugglers often attempt to bypass restrictions by disguising illicit drugs as transit goods.
“We are also looking at tightening our regulations regarding transit goods…this is believed to be going to Niger. Last night, I was in talks with the Minister responsible for Foreign Affairs. We are contacting the Niger government to know whether or not they have okayed such a consignment.”
Dr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh Health Minister
However, he clarified that even if Niger had authorized the consignment, Ghana would not serve as a transit point for unauthorized drugs.
“We will take safe custody of the consignment we have impounded, and we will swiftly move to court for an order for its proper disposal.’’
Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh Health Minister
Hon. Akandoh stressed the need for a multi-sectoral approach, including collaboration with the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Customs, and law enforcement agencies to tackle drug smuggling effectively.
“Anybody who finds themselves in this particular issue or matter, we will deal with the person.’’
Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh Health Minister
Acknowledging the crucial role of intelligence gathering in curbing illicit drug activities, Dr. Akandoh urged the public to provide timely information to aid security agencies.
“The effects of such opioids are very detrimental to the productivity of this country.’’
Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh Health Minister
Response to BBC Report and Government’s Stance
Reacting to claims that the government’s response was influenced by a recent BBC report, Dr. Akandoh defended the work of Ghana’s security agencies.
“Well, behind the scenes, our security agencies have been doing a fantastic job. Let me acknowledge that after all, I was not here myself to impound this. We have the NACOB on board. We have the FDA on board, the Customs, all are cooperating.”
Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh Health Minister
However, he admitted that the BBC report had heightened public awareness, prompting greater governmental intervention.
Hon. Akandoh firmly reiterated that Ghana would not allow unauthorized drugs to pass through its borders under the pretext of being transit goods.
“In fact, when we checked the labels, the manufacturers on the labels, they are unauthorized. They are illegal. It has never been authorized by any country.”
Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh Health Minister
He stressed that Ghana would proceed according to its laws by obtaining a court order for the safe destruction of the seized consignment.
Hon. Akandoh announced that in the coming months, Ghana would enhance border control measures, deploy advanced scanning technology, and strengthen collaborations with international agencies to prevent future cases of opioid smuggling.
“Henceforth, we will be very keen on transit rules, nobody should misconstrue this to be anti-trade facilitation. It is in the interest of the nation.”
Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh Health Minister
Hon. Akandoh revealed that the total value of the seized drugs was approximately GHS 20 million, a significant amount that reflects the scale of the attempted smuggling operation.
“The person is not a Ghanaian because Ghana is not the final destination. It has to do with diplomacy as well. So, we have to handle it carefully. But we will not relent on our efforts at all.”
Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh Health Minister
With this latest seizure and the government’s renewed commitment, Ghana has sent a strong signal that it will not be a haven or transit point for unauthorized opioids. The Health Minister’s firm declaration, backed by the President’s direct involvement, underscores the nation’s resolve to combat drug trafficking at all levels.
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