The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority has intercepted a major consignment of illicit drugs and undeclared goods at the Atlantic Terminal Services Limited (ATSL) in Takoradi.
The seizure involved two 40-foot containers imported by Maxwell Boateng, which were found to contain about 25 million tapentadol tablets, an opioid not approved for use in Ghana alongside thousands of undeclared ceiling fans. The containers had been declared as carrying ceiling fans, but routine inspection by customs officers uncovered irregular packaging that triggered further investigation.
Following orders from the Takoradi Sector Commander, Walter Blankson, the containers were placed under surveillance and later fully examined. Authorities confirmed the presence of tapentadol and Timaking tablets, with investigations revealing significant discrepancies between the declared goods and the actual contents.
The entire consignment has been placed under state custody, with samples sent to the Customs Laboratory for further analysis. Investigations are ongoing, involving agencies including the Narcotics Control Commission, Food and Drugs Authority, National Security, and the National Intelligence Bureau.
Customs officials say the interception is part of sustained efforts to stem the importation of illicit opioids and other unapproved substances into the country.