Ghana Customs Intercepts Smuggled Goods Concealed in Okro Powder

The Ghana Revenue Authority's Customs Division intercepted a significant haul of smuggled goods at the Techiman checkpoint on November 5, 2026. A Burkina Faso-registered cargo truck, DAF XF with registration number BF2798G303, was stopped and searched, revealing 97 bales of imitation wax prints and 10 unpacked Yamaha Aerox motorbikes concealed beneath dry okro powder and empty glass bottles.

The vehicle was escorted to the Sunyani Regional Office for a thorough examination, which uncovered 58,200 yards of fabric and 10 new, unpacked 155cc Yamaha Aerox motorbikes. Customs officers classified the goods as uncustomed, indicating that the required import duties and clearance procedures had not been completed. The estimated duty on the textile consignment is GH¢465,186.90, based on an FOB value of $52,962, together with freight, insurance, import duty, VAT, and various levies and charges.

The seized items were covered by Notices of Seizure Nos. 0015388, 0015392, 0015393, 0015394, and 0015395, all issued on November 11, 2026. The notices cite provisions of the Customs Act, 2015 (Act 891) and describe the goods as liable to forfeiture. Some of the seizure notices identified Sansadogo Mohammed in connection with the motorbikes, while another notice was addressed to "Dabil" and "Perpetual" in relation to the textile consignment.

The documents stated that any person wishing to challenge the forfeiture must submit a written claim within one calendar month. If no claim is filed, the goods may be treated as lawfully forfeited and disposed of as directed by the Commissioner. The goods have since been deposited at the Sunyani Regional Office state warehouse pending further action.

The interception underscores ongoing Customs enforcement against the concealment and undeclared importation of goods through inland checkpoints. According to the Ghana Revenue Authority, this operation demonstrates the authority's commitment to preventing smuggling and ensuring compliance with customs regulations.

The seized goods, if forfeited, may be disposed of as directed by the Commissioner. The Ghana Revenue Authority may also pursue further action against individuals or entities involved in the smuggling. The authority has urged the public to report any suspicious activities or information regarding smuggling operations.

The successful interception is a result of collaboration between the Customs Division and other stakeholders. The Ghana Revenue Authority will continue to enhance its surveillance and enforcement efforts to prevent smuggling and protect the country's revenue.

Key points

• The estimated duty on the textile consignment is GH¢465,186.90.
• The seized items were covered by five Notices of Seizure issued on November 11, 2026.
• The goods have been deposited at the Sunyani Regional Office state warehouse pending further action.