Officers of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) at the Akanu Sector Command, in collaboration with the Ghana Revenue Authority-Customs Division, have intercepted a truck loaded with smuggled cocoa beans at the Ave-Havi border post.
Acting on intelligence, the officers stopped a truck with registration number AS 2103-W, driven by one Ibrahim Fatawu.
A thorough inspection of the vehicle revealed 1,115 gallons stuffed with cocoa beans, which were being transported illegally across the border into Togo.
Following the interception, the truck was impounded, and the smuggled cocoa beans have been handed over to officials of COCOBOD for further action.
The driver is currently assisting security agencies in their investigations.
In a statement, the Ghana Immigration Service cautioned individuals engaged in cocoa smuggling to desist from such illegal activities, emphasizing the negative impact on Ghana’s economy and the significant revenue losses incurred by the government.
The Service also commended members of the border community for their vigilance and cooperation in safeguarding Ghana’s borders against illicit trade.
Background
Cocoa remains one of Ghana’s most valuable exports, and authorities have been intensifying efforts to curb smuggling, which undermines government revenue and affects farmers’ livelihoods.
Security agencies continue to strengthen border surveillance to prevent such illegal activities.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
Commentaires