Ghana Customs officers at the Atlantic Terminal Services Limited terminal have intercepted an estimated 25 million suspected illicit tablets following a major intelligence-led operation at the Takoradi Port.
The uncovered drugs were concealed within two 40-foot containers falsely declared as carrying ceiling fans.
The discovery was initiated by vigilant frontline officers who detected anomalies in the packaging during routine examinations.
Their alert prompted immediate action, with Takoradi Sector Commander Walter Blankson ordering the containers placed under tight surveillance.
Subsequently, the containers were inspected jointly by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), National Security, the National Intelligence Bureau, the Food and Drugs Authority, and the declarant, Maxwell Boateng.
The examination revealed millions of tablets suspected to be Tapentadol and Timaking, hidden among cartons of ceiling fans, alongside thousands of undeclared electrical appliances.
Authorities have seized the tablets, with samples forwarded to the Customs Chemist for laboratory analysis.
The remaining goods are secured at the State Warehouse in Takoradi as investigations continue.
Maxwell Boateng is currently in the custody of NACOC and is assisting investigators in tracing the consignment’s owner.
Customs officials emphasize that the operation underscores the effectiveness of officer vigilance and strengthened interagency cooperation in combating illicit trade and safeguarding public health at Ghana’s borders.
