GIS foils cocoa smuggling attempt at Kauk-Jago border

Personnel of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) have intercepted 25 bags of cocoa beans being smuggled into Togo through the Kauk-Jago border in the Bunkpurugu enclave of the North East Region.

The bags of cocoa beans are believed to have been transported from southern Ghana to the north in a transit operation orchestrated by a syndicate that smuggles cocoa to neighbouring countries.

Acting on a tip-off, the personnel laid an ambush along the border and confiscated the goods.

Although the suspects managed to flee the scene, the officers successfully seized the cocoa beans, which were being illegally transported out of the country.

Confirmation

Confirming the incident to Graphic Online, the Bunkpurugu Sector Commander of GIS, Assistant Commissioner of Immigration (ACI) Edwin Adjetey Doku, said the goods have been handed over to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) while investigations continue.

He explained: “We acted on credible intelligence about cocoa beans being smuggled from the Kauk-Jago area into Togo. My team quickly mobilised and intercepted the goods, although the drivers and two other individuals escaped.”

He reaffirmed his outfit's commitment to protecting Ghana’s territorial borders and combating all forms of cross-border crime.

Support

ACI Doku also urged the public to support GIS efforts by reporting suspicious activities.

He emphasised the need for enhanced logistical support to effectively tackle the rising cases of smuggling in the area, stressing: “The Bunkpurugu Division urgently needs more resources to fight the persistent smuggling of goods across our borders.”