9 Arrested at Tema Port over undeclared Tramadol seizure
Nine public officers have been granted a police inquiry bail in connection with the interception of a container carrying a huge consignment of undeclared Tramadol at the Tema Port.
The officers, made up of five Customs officers, one officer from the Narcotics Control Commission, one Port Security officer, one Energy Commission officer, and one Standards Authority officer, were arrested following the interception of a huge consignment of undeclared Tramadol at the Tema Port.
A statement issued by the Ghana Revenue Authority yesterday said the arrests follow a significant seizure by the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
Authorities discovered 146,932,000 tablets of Tramadol Hydrochloride (250mg and 225mg), equivalent to 34,547.2 kilograms, hidden in a container that had been cleared as carrying household items.
Seizure
The GRA said the seizure was triggered by intelligence received by the Preventive Wing of the Customs Division stating that container number TGHU6228715, cleared under Bill of Entry 40226151187, was detained on February 20 2026, and moved to a Customs-controlled area in Tema for detailed examination.
It said the shipment, originating from the United Arab Emirates, had been declared as containing items such as water kettles, kitchen blenders, pressing irons, energy-saving bulbs, and polypropylene materials.
However, a joint re-examination conducted by Customs officers and the Central Revenue Monitoring Team on March 1, 2026, revealed significant discrepancies.
It said hidden within the container were large quantities of undeclared Tramadol tablets, concealed among the legitimate household items.
Following the discovery, the importer and declarant were handed over to the police to assist with ongoing investigations.
The GRA indicated that the seized consignment remains under strict Customs control as authorities continue to probe the case.
Commitment
The GRA, in the statement, further emphasised its unwavering commitment to safeguarding national security, protecting public health, and maintaining the integrity of Ghana’s revenue and border management systems.
It reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on illegal imports and the misuse of public office.
This incident highlights the persistent risks posed by the smuggling of controlled substances into the country and the importance of vigilant monitoring at ports of entry.
“This move serves as a reminder of the critical role intelligence-led operations play in curbing illicit trade and ensuring compliance with national laws.
“The GRA assures the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure those involved are held accountable, and that the country’s borders remain secure against unlawful activities,” the statement concluded.
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