In a blow to the illicit drug trade, the Keta Divisional Police Command in the Volta Region, in collaboration with the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), has arrested three individuals attempting to smuggle a banned substance known as ‘Taramaking’ from Togo to Accra.
According to the police, the suspects were apprehended on February 24 during a routine l inspection at a checkpoint on the Accra-Aflao road.
They were travelling on an STC bus with registration number GG 1736-19, which was found to be carrying illicit substances.
Gorden Akurugu, Head of the FDA’s Volta Region Office, confirmed that the confiscated drugs contained 120 milligrams of Taramaking, far exceeding the legally permitted limit.
“The product is not registered with the FDA, making its sale and distribution illegal under Ghanaian law,” he emphasized.
Akurugu further noted that the market value of the seized drugs is estimated at GH¢1.4 million.
“If they had reached the market, they could have fueled widespread abuse and posed serious public health risks,” he warned.
The FDA official also highlighted that transporting drugs through inland borders is prohibited, with only Kotoka International Airport and Tema Port designated as legal entry points for pharmaceutical imports.
Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Seth Adu-Boahen, Keta Divisional Commander, confirmed the arrest and disclosed that the prime suspect responsible for placing the drugs on the bus has been taken into custody.
The police and FDA are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to aid in the fight against drug trafficking and illicit trade.
The authorities suspect the seized drugs originated from Togo or another neighbouring country, and efforts are underway to dismantle the smuggling network.
-BY Daniel Bampoe
