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Ghana Customs officials at the Takoradi Port have intercepted a large consignment of suspected illicit drugs concealed in two 40-foot containers, following an intelligence-led operation at the Atlantic Terminal Services Limited terminal in Takoradi.
The interception was made after frontline officers noticed unusual packaging patterns during routine inspections, prompting an immediate alert to management. Acting swiftly, the Sector Commander for Takoradi, Walter Blankson, ordered the containers to be placed under tight surveillance to prevent any interference.
The containers were later fully unstuffed in the presence of representatives from the Narcotics Control Commission, National Security, the National Intelligence Bureau, the Food and Drugs Authority, and the declarant, Maxwell Boateng.
The operation led to the discovery of an estimated 25 million tablets of suspected illicit Tapentadol and Timaking drugs hidden among cartons of ceiling fans, along with thousands of undeclared electrical appliances.
The seized tablets have been secured, with samples taken by the Customs Chemist for laboratory analysis, while the remaining goods have been transferred to the State Warehouse in Takoradi pending further investigations.
Customs officials say the successful operation underscores the importance of vigilant frontline officers and strong inter-agency collaboration in protecting Ghana’s borders from illicit trade and its associated public health risks.
