Ghana Customs officials at the Takoradi Port have intercepted a large consignment of suspected illicit drugs hidden in two 40-foot containers during an intelligence-led operation at the Atlantic Terminal Services Limited terminal.
The containers were initially declared as carrying ceiling fans. Routine checks by frontline officers revealed unusual packaging patterns, prompting immediate action from management.
Acting on the findings, Takoradi Sector Commander Walter Blankson placed the containers under strict surveillance before they were fully unpacked. Representatives from the Narcotics Control Commission, National Security, the National Intelligence Bureau, the Food and Drugs Authority, and the declarant, Maxwell Boateng, were present during the inspection.
Officials discovered an estimated 25 million tablets of suspected Tapentadol and Timaking, concealed among cartons of ceiling fans, alongside thousands of undeclared electrical appliances. The tablets have been seized, with samples sent to the Customs Chemist for laboratory analysis. The remaining goods are being held at the State Warehouse in Takoradi pending further investigations.
Customs officials say the successful operation highlights the importance of vigilant frontline officers and coordinated interagency collaboration in protecting Ghana’s borders and public health.
The declarant, Maxwell Boateng, is currently in custody with the Narcotics Control Commission, assisting in investigations to trace the owner of the containers.
