The attention of the Ghana Revenue Authority (G.R.A) was drawn to a piece of information being circulated in the media about a consignment of goods that were seized by the Customs Division at the Tema port on Friday, 9th October 2020. In this regard, it was confirmed by the G.R.A in a Press Release signed by its Assistant Commissioner of Communication and Public Affairs, Mrs. Florence Asante, about the seizure of 436 pistols, 26 packs of 50 pieces of Ammunitions and 1 (40ml) piece of pepper spray at the Tema Port.
According to the Customs Division of the G.R.A, the container described on arrival at the Tema port as containing Personal Effects, Household Goods, and a Carding machine was flagged as ‘’Red Channel’’. After examination, eighteen (18) packages identified as restricted items were found in the container. These included 436 pistols (Side Arms), 26 packs of 50 pieces of Ammunitions, and 1(40milliliter) piece of pepper spray.
These items had been imported into the country without the necessary permits from the Ministry of Interior. The items had also not been declared to the customs on arrival.
An inventory of the items was taken in the presence of officers of the Preventive Wing of the Customs Division (Intelligence and Examination Officer), Bureau of National Security and the Police. All representatives, including the clearing agent, signed against the total number of arms and ammunitions seized.
A seizure notice was then issued to the clearing agent, and the seized the consignment was placed in the custody of the Customs Division. Currently, the clearing agent is assisting the Tema Harbour Police Command with the investigation. Meanwhile, the Customs Division has provided the Police with relevant information.
The Ghana Revenue Authority stated clearly that the seized ammunition is not being kept for onward release to some ‘big men’ but, the outcome of the investigations by the Police on the restricted items will be made to the public when it is concluded.
The Authority also utilized the opportunity by cautioning all importers that the importation of arms and ammunition can be carried out only with a permit by the Ministry of Interior and these items must be declared upon importation.
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