The Ghana Revenue Authority's (GRA) Customs Division has made a significant seizure at the Tema Port, intercepting three firearms, 610 rounds of ammunition, and related accessories. The items were discovered on September 25, 2026, during a routine inspection and scanning of goods. According to Deputy Commissioner Florence Asante, the seizure was made by two Customs officers who conducted a thorough examination of the items, which were presented as personal effects.
The seized items comprised one assault rifle and two pistols, along with 610 rounds of ammunition and other firearm-related accessories. Notably, the items had not been declared to Customs, highlighting a potential breach of regulations. The GRA's Customs Division has intensified scanning and examination of items at Ghana's ports to prevent the illegal importation of prohibited and restricted goods.
The incident demonstrates the effectiveness of the enhanced scanning regime, which has yielded results in identifying items that might have otherwise gone unnoticed. Deputy Commissioner Asante emphasized the importance of proper declaration of all items, particularly prohibited or restricted goods. She advised importers to obtain necessary licenses before bringing restricted items into the country.
Mrs. Asante warned that failure to declare restricted or prohibited goods could result in importers facing legal consequences. She urged agents and persons importing goods on behalf of others to verify the contents of consignments before bringing them into the country. Importers should ensure that the goods they handle comply with Customs requirements to avoid breaches of the law.
The seized firearms, ammunition, and related items have been handed over to the Police for further investigation and processing. Deputy Commissioner Asante appealed to the public and importers to cooperate with Customs and provide accurate information about goods being brought into the country to strengthen border security.
The GRA's Customs Division will continue its examination and scanning operations at the country's ports to prevent the illegal importation of prohibited and restricted items. The public has been urged to report any suspicious activity to the authorities. The seizure at the Tema Port highlights the need for vigilance and cooperation between authorities and importers.
The incident serves as a reminder of the critical role that Customs plays in maintaining border security and preventing the influx of illicit goods. The GRA's efforts to enhance scanning and examination of items are part of a broader strategy to ensure compliance with regulations and prevent breaches of the law.
Key points
- The Ghana Revenue Authority's Customs Division intercepted three firearms and 610 rounds of ammunition at the Tema Port on September 25, 2026.
- The items were concealed among personal effects and had not been declared to Customs.
- The seizure highlights the importance of the Customs Division's intensified scanning and examination of items at Ghana's ports.
