By Evelyn ARTHUR
Tema Sector Command of the Customs Division of Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has seized about hundred boxes of Tramadol in a major anti-smuggling operation at Tema Port, a significant breakthrough in the fight against illegal drug trafficking.
The high-strength Tramadol tablets, commonly refferred to as “red”, are suspected to have been smuggled into the country under false declaration.
The drug, according to Customs, “was hidden in a shipment labelled as general merchandise bound for Niger”.
This large consignment was discovered in a twenty footer container on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 by an examination officer stationed at the Transit Terminal, together with the monitoring team led by Chief Revenue Office (CRO) William Kpodo, seized the drugs consisting of 50 cartons of 250mg and 50 cartons of 120mg, at the Transit Terminal.
Acting upon intelligence and with the support from various stakeholders, the seizure is sending a strong signal to criminal syndicates that Ghana will not be used as a transit point or destination for illegal drugs.
This seizure reflects the vigilance and commitment of Customs officials working with law enforcement agencies to protect public health and national security.
Tramadol abuse has become a growing public health concern in Ghana, particularly among the youth, commercial drivers and some labourers, due to its addictive and euphoric effects. The drug, often trafficked illegally in high doses, is banned under Ghanaian law.
The case has been handed over to the investigation team of the Tema Collection, which is collaborating with the Narcotics Control Commission, Port Security and the JPCU team to gather more information regarding the arrest.
