The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has seized 53 pistols, 65 rounds of live ammunition, 74 magazines, and a PC holster concealed in a 40-foot container at the Golden Jubilee Terminal, Tema Port.
The suspects linked to the shipment were arrested and transferred to the Marine and Railway Police Station, Tema, for further investigation.
Details of the Interception
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, Commissioner of Customs Brigadier Zibrim Ayorrogo revealed that the shipment, imported from the United States, was intercepted on Monday, November 4. The container, bearing number MEDU4496951, had been declared to contain vehicles and personal effects.
During a routine examination on Friday, November 15, Customs officers, in the presence of the declarant/agent and the importer’s representative, discovered the concealed firearms and ammunition hidden within three suitcases.
Immediate Response
Brigadier Ayorrogo outlined the swift actions taken by the Customs Division:
- Notification was sent to the GRA’s Intelligence and Investigations Unit and the Customs Preventive Unit.
- Officials confirmed the discovery of the concealed items, including 53 pistols, 74 magazines, and 65 rounds of ammunition.
- The firearms, ammunition, and magazines were seized, and the entire container’s contents were detained for further examination.
Arrests and Investigations
Both the agent and the consignee’s representative were arrested and interrogated regarding the illegal shipment. The case has been handed over to the Marine and Railway Police for detailed investigations.
The Commissioner emphasized the Customs Division’s commitment to ensuring national security and curbing illegal arms trafficking into the country.
