Customs officials in the Northern Region have seized GH¢20.6 million worth of illicit cigarettes and controlled pharmaceuticals in a targeted operation on the Nanton-Gushegu road.
The bust, which took place on 11th February 2025, involved 450 boxes of Business Royal Cigarettes and five boxes of Tapentadol tablets. A customs task force, acting on intelligence, set up a checkpoint, but the suspect vehicle sped past, leading to a swift chase and eventual interception.
Despite summoning the driver and a supposed owner for inspection, both failed to show up.
A thorough search on 19th February confirmed the cargo contained restricted goods without proper import permits. The items were formally seized under Notice of Seizure Number 248806 on 25th February.
Brigadier General Zibrim Bawah Ayorrogo, Commissioner of Customs, emphasized increased inter-agency collaboration to combat smuggling.
The case is now with the Narcotics Control Commission for further investigation and possible legal action.