- Ghana Customs intercepts two 40-foot containers with suspected drugs at Takoradi Port
- Estimated 25 million Tapentadol and Timaking tablets found among ceiling fans and undeclared electronics
- Operation involved Narcotics Control Commission, National Security, NIB, and FDA
Ghana Customs officials at Takoradi Port have intercepted a large shipment of suspected illicit drugs hidden in two 40-foot containers at the Atlantic Terminal Services Limited terminal. The seizure resulted from an intelligence-led operation after frontline officers noticed unusual packaging during routine inspections and promptly alerted management.
Acting on the intelligence, Takoradi Sector Commander Walter Blankson placed the containers under strict surveillance before they were fully unstuffed.
The operation involved close coordination with the Narcotics Control Commission, National Security, the National Intelligence Bureau, the Food and Drugs Authority, and the declarant, Maxwell Boateng.
Customs officials discovered an estimated 25 million tablets of suspected Tapentadol and Timaking concealed among cartons of ceiling fans, along with thousands of undeclared electrical appliances. The tablets have been sent to the Customs Chemist for laboratory analysis, while the other items were moved to the State Warehouse in Takoradi as investigations continue.
The declarant, Maxwell Boateng, is currently in the custody of the Narcotics Control Commission and is assisting authorities in identifying the owners of the containers.
Customs highlighted that the interception demonstrates the critical role of vigilant frontline officers and strong interagency collaboration in protecting Ghana’s borders and public health.
