Customs Seize GH¢20.6m Worth Of Illicit Cigarettes, Tapentadol Tablets

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, which took place along the Nanton-Gushegu road on 11th February 2025, led to 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 regarding 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 the necessary details.
Shortly after, an individual claiming to be the owner arrived on a motorbike but also refused to comment on the consignment.
The vehicle was subsequently taken to the Tamale Collection Regional Headquarters for further examination. Officials summoned both the driver and the owner for an official cargo inspection the following day, but neither appeared.
A thorough search conducted on 19th February confirmed that the vehicle was carrying highly restricted goods that required proper import permits.
As no valid documentation was provided, the items were officially seized under Notice of Seizure Number 248806 on 25th February 2025.
Brigadier General Zibrim Bawah Ayorrogo, Commissioner of Customs, later visited the Tamale Collection Regional Headquarters to assess the situation. He underscored the importance of inter-agency collaboration in tackling the smuggling of illicit goods, stating,
“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.” His remarks highlighted the ongoing challenges customs officials face in the fight against smuggling.
Despite increased enforcement measures, illicit drugs and contraband products continue to infiltrate Ghana’s markets, raising concerns over rising substance abuse among the youth.
Customs officials have pledged to strengthen surveillance at ports and border crossings to disrupt smuggling networks and prevent the influx of illegal goods. They have also called for stricter penalties to deter offenders.
The case has been handed over to the Narcotics Control Commission for further investigation. Legal action is expected to be taken against those implicated in the illegal trade, as authorities remain committed to tackling smuggling and safeguarding public health and security.