The seized items have been handed over to the Police for further action. Deputy Commissioner of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Florence Asante, stated that the interception was part of an intensified effort to scan and physically examine consignments entering and leaving the country. The goal is to detect illegal imports, particularly prohibited and restricted items.
According to Ms. Asante, the firearms and ammunition were not included in the importer's declaration and were only discovered after further examination. She urged importers to comply with laws governing restricted and prohibited goods and obtain necessary licenses and permits before bringing such items into Ghana. Importers must ensure that restricted items have the required permits and are properly declared to Customs.
Ms. Asante also cautioned individuals who accept consignments on behalf of others to establish exactly what they are importing before taking possession of the goods. She emphasized the importance of conducting due diligence to avoid involvement in the illegal importation of restricted items. Claiming ignorance of a consignment's contents may not shield an importer from possible breaches of the law.
In Ghana, arms and ammunition are classified as restricted goods, requiring importers to obtain a permit from the Ministry of the Interior. The Arms and Ammunition Act, 1972 (NRCD 9), as amended, also requires prior authorization for the importation or exportation of firearms and ammunition. The latest seizure highlights the heightened scrutiny of restricted items moving through Ghana's ports.
The GRA is working to improve compliance with customs regulations. The Authority has warned importers and buyers to verify the customs status of goods before making payments or taking possession. Additionally, the GRA has cautioned travelers to declare goods beyond personal effects at ports and to be aware of regulations regarding foreign currency and phone imports.
The seizure at the Tema Port is part of a broader effort to prevent the smuggling of restricted items into Ghana. The GRA and other agencies will continue to monitor and scrutinize consignments to prevent breaches of customs regulations. Importers and individuals accepting goods from third parties must take steps to ensure compliance with the law.
Key points
- The Ghanaian Customs has intercepted an assault rifle, two pistols, and 610 rounds of ammunition at the Tema Port, highlighting the country's efforts to prevent the smuggling of restricted items.
- Importers and individuals accepting goods from third parties are urged to conduct due diligence and ensure compliance with customs regulations to avoid breaches of the law.
- The GRA will continue to intensify scanning and physical examination of consignments to detect and prevent the importation of prohibited and restricted items.
