BY ISSAH OLEGOR
The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has intercepted a consignment of suspected cannabis weighing 560.4 kilogrammes, with an estimated street value of GH¢11.2 million, following an intelligence-led operation at Torve, near Akatsi in the Volta Region.
The operation, conducted by the Preventive Monitoring Unit (PMU) of the Aflao Sector Command on October 15, 2026, resulted in the seizure of 1,065 compressed parcels of suspected cannabis concealed in a black Lexus vehicle registered UE 7398-22.
According to information released by the Customs Division, the operation took place at approximately 9:35 p.m. after officers received credible intelligence about a suspicious vehicle believed to be transporting illicit substances.
When officers moved to intercept the vehicle, the driver reportedly attempted to escape but abandoned it after a mechanical fault prevented further movement. The driver fled the scene, leaving the vehicle behind for officers to inspect.
A subsequent search uncovered 1,065 compressed parcels of suspected cannabis, with the total consignment weighing 560.4 kilogrammes. The estimated street value of GH¢11.2 million makes the seizure a significant interception in the fight against suspected drug trafficking in the region.
Ghana Card Retrieved
During the operation, officers retrieved a Ghana Card bearing the name Kunuhor Gidsway from the vehicle. The Lexus was also found to be carrying registration plates suspected of being falsified.
The discovery of the identification card and the allegedly false registration plates is expected to form part of the ongoing investigation as authorities work to establish the identity of the driver and determine the circumstances surrounding the transportation of the suspected drugs.
However, the retrieval of the Ghana Card does not, on its own, establish that the named individual owned the vehicle, drove it or was responsible for the consignment. Investigators are expected to verify the identification details and establish any connection to the vehicle and the suspected illegal activity.
Customs has recommended that the identity associated with the card be verified through the National Identification Authority (NIA), while efforts are made to trace and apprehend the suspect who fled the scene.
Multiple Security Agencies Authenticate Seizure
The seized items were jointly examined by officers from several security and regulatory institutions, including the Bureau National of Intelligence (BNI), Defence Intelligence, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and National Security.
The joint examination was intended to document the consignment and support the handling of the evidence for further investigation.
Authorities have secured the suspected substances and related items for laboratory testing to confirm their composition and establish the evidence required for any potential prosecution.
The laboratory confirmation will be important in determining whether the seized parcels contain cannabis or another substance. Until the testing is completed, the consignment remains appropriately described as suspected cannabis.
NACOC Takes Over for Further Investigation
Following the interception and preliminary examination, the Customs Division handed over the seized consignment and the Lexus vehicle to NACOC for further investigation.
The handover is expected to allow the specialised drug-control agency to pursue the case, establish the source and intended destination of the consignment, and investigate any individuals who may have been involved in its transportation.
Customs has also recommended laboratory testing of the suspected substances, verification of the Ghana Card through the appropriate authorities, and intensified efforts to locate the fleeing driver.
The agency has further called for stronger intelligence networks to help identify suspicious movements and disrupt future attempts to transport prohibited substances through Ghana.
Aflao Sector Commander Commends Operation
The Sector Commander for Aflao Collection, Emmanuel Reginald Duh, described the seizure as a “significant disruption to the illegal drug trade in the region.”
