The Office of the Special Prosecutor has commenced investigations into suspected corruption involving the diversion of fifty 20-foot containers of palm oil valued at GHS25.8 million.
According to the Office, the consignment was declared as being in transit to Burkina Faso but was unlawfully diverted onto the local market without the payment of required duties and taxes.
On February 18, 2026, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), through its Customs Division, intercepted 18 articulated trucks carrying assorted goods — including cooking oil, spaghetti, and tomato paste — declared for transit to Niger, at the Akanu and Aflao border posts.
The interception uncovered tax evasion amounting to GH¢85.3 million, with sources revealing the cargo was moving without the mandatory Customs Human Escorts required under Ghana’s transit regime.
Preliminary findings have pointed to the involvement of some Customs officers, National Security operatives and clearing agents in what the Office describes as a corrupt scheme. The alleged actions are estimated to have resulted in a tax revenue loss of about GHS10.5 million.
The investigation followed an intelligence-led operation carried out in November 2025, which uncovered irregularities surrounding the shipment.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor says it remains committed to safeguarding the public purse and ensuring accountability as investigations continue.
By Peter Tabie