Customs Seize 25 Million Suspected Illicit Tablets at Takoradi Port

Customs officials at the Takoradi Port have intercepted an estimated 25 million tablets of suspected illicit drugs concealed in two 40-foot containers, following an intelligence-led operation at the Atlantic Terminal Services Limited (ATSL) terminal.

An official of national security who confirmed the story in an interview added that the seizure was made after vigilant frontline officers detected unusual packaging patterns during routine inspections and promptly alerted their superiors.

Acting on the tip-off, the Takoradi Sector Commander of Customs, Walter Blankson, ordered that the containers be placed under strict surveillance to prevent any possible tampering.

The containers were subsequently unstuffed under heightened security, with the operation conducted in the presence of key state agencies, including the Narcotics Control Commission, National Security, the National Intelligence Bureau, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and the cargo declarant, Maxwell Boateng.

A detailed inspection revealed large quantities of suspected illicit Tapentadol and Timaking tablets hidden among cartons of ceiling fans, along with thousands of undeclared electrical appliances. Preliminary estimates put the haul at about 25 million tablets.

The suspected drugs have been seized, with samples forwarded to the Customs Chemist for laboratory analysis. The remaining goods have been transferred to the State Warehouse in Takoradi, where they are being held pending further investigations.

Customs officials say the successful interception underscores the importance of vigilance among frontline officers and strong inter-agency collaboration in safeguarding Ghana’s borders against illicit trade and its attendant public health and security risks.

 

 

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