Security agencies have stepped up enforcement efforts against cocoa smuggling following the arrest of four suspects in a joint operation in the Bono Region.
The operation, led by the Anti-Smuggling Unit of the Ghana Cocoa Board in collaboration with security personnel, resulted in the interception of a truck carrying more than 100 bags of cocoa at Nkrankwanta near the Ghana–Côte d’Ivoire border.
Addressing a press briefing in Sunyani, Joseph Addae Akwaboa said the operation was initiated following intelligence gathered during his community engagement tour, where farmers raised concerns about irregular cocoa purchasing practices.
According to him, some Licensed Buying Companies and purchasing clerks were allegedly bypassing local farmers and instead sourcing cocoa through smuggling networks.
The suspects, he said, are currently assisting investigations and will face prosecution once inquiries are completed.
Authorities have since intensified surveillance and enforcement across key smuggling routes to curb the illegal trade, which threatens the integrity of Ghana’s cocoa industry.
Mr. Akwaboa reaffirmed government’s resolve to protect farmers’ interests and ensure transparency in cocoa purchasing, warning against attempts to politicise the sector.
He also called on the public to support ongoing efforts by reporting suspicious activities along border communities.
