Health Minister, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has reiterated the government’s commitment to combatting opioid trafficking and preventing the country from becoming a transit hub for illegal drugs. Speaking following the disposal of GH₵20 million worth of opioids seized by customs authorities, Mr. Akandoh emphasized ongoing efforts to strengthen regulations and monitoring at key entry points.

The minister lauded the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) for intercepting the illicit shipment at the Tema Port on April 4. He assured the public that the government’s efforts would extend beyond the safe disposal of the confiscated drugs, promising further investigation into the clearing agent and importer behind the shipment.

“The proper and secure disposal of these opioids is crucial to safeguarding the health of our youth and citizens,” Akandoh said. “But this action is just the beginning. We will not stop at disposal. We will investigate all parties involved, including the importer.”

Mr. Akandoh also reiterated his earlier statements about controlling the import and export of narcotics, stressing that only Ghana’s major ports—Kotoka International Airport and Tema Port—should be used for legitimate trade in such substances. He instructed security agencies and customs officials to focus efforts on land borders to ensure illicit drugs are intercepted at these entry points.

The seized shipment, which included various opioid medications such as Tapentadol, Loperamide, and Chlorpheniramine Maleate, was safely destroyed as part of the operation.

Source:TheDotNews