Customs seize GH¢20.6m of illegal cigarettes and Tapentadol tablets in Tamale

The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has intercepted a significant consignment of restricted goods, including illicit cigarettes and controlled pharmaceuticals, following an intelligence-led operation in the Northern Region.

The seized items—450 boxes of Business Royal Cigarettes and five boxes of Tapentadol tablets—have an estimated duty value of GH¢20.6 million.

Acting on a tip-off, a customs task force set up a checkpoint on the Gaha-Gushegu road, where a suspicious vehicle failed to stop, prompting a chase.

The driver and owner refused to disclose details, leading to the vehicle’s seizure. Further inspection confirmed it contained unauthorized goods.

Brigadier General Zibrim Bawah Ayorrogo, Customs Commissioner, assured intensified surveillance as authorities hand over the case for further investigation.