Accra, February 25, 2025
Officers of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) at the Akanu Sector Command, with support from the Ghana Revenue Authority-Customs Division, have successfully intercepted a truckload of smuggled cocoa beans at the Ave-Havi border post en route to Togo.
Operation Details
Acting on intelligence, security personnel waylaid the truck, bearing registration number AS 2103-W, and arrested the driver, Ibrahim Fatawu. Upon inspection, 1,115 gallons stuffed with cocoa beans were discovered in the vehicle.
According to a press release signed by Michael Amoako-Atta, Assistant Commissioner of Immigration in charge of Public Relations, the intercepted cocoa beans have been handed over to COCOBOD for further action, while the truck remains impounded and the driver is assisting with investigations.
The GIS has issued a strong warning to individuals engaging in cocoa smuggling, emphasizing its detrimental impact on Ghana’s economy and government revenue.
“The Ghana Immigration Service is hereby issuing a caution to all would-be smugglers to desist from such activity since it negatively affects Ghana’s economy and also results in loss of revenue to the Government,” the statement said.
The Service also commended border communities for their collaboration and support in protecting Ghana’s territorial integrity and urged continued vigilance against illicit activities.
