Ghanaian authorities have intercepted a massive shipment of opioids worth an estimated GH₵20 million at the Tema Port, in what officials are describing as a major breakthrough in the fight against illicit drug trafficking.
The seizure, led by the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) in collaboration with other stakeholders, uncovered a container packed with powerful opioid medications, including Tapentadol in various dosages, Loperamide, and Chlorpheniramine Maleate.
Details of the Seized Opioids: Rahol Tapentadol 250 mg - 26 cartons Tafradol Tapentadol 120 mg - 160 cartons Timaking Tapentadol 120 mg - 40 cartons Loperamide 2 mg - 190 cartons Chlorpheniramine Maleate - 320 cartons Authorities revealed that the container was bound for Niger, using Ghana as a transit point - a growing concern for security agencies monitoring West Africa's rising role in global drug smuggling networks.
Speaking during a press briefing at Tema Port, Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, assured Ghanaians that the government is taking a firm stand against the country being used to facilitate such illegal trades. "Inasmuch as we are interested in facilitating trade in this country, we will not allow Ghana to be a safe haven for opioids," Akandoh stressed.
