COCOBOD, GRA Intercept 1,115 Gallons of Smuggled Cocoa Near Togo Border

A joint operation by the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has led to the interception of 1,115 gallons of smuggled cocoa beans at the Ave-Havi border near Togo.

The illegal consignment was being transported in a truck with registration number AS 2103-W, driven by Ibrahim Fatawu. The cocoa beans had been concealed in gallons to evade detection, but authorities uncovered the scheme as part of their intensified crackdown on cocoa smuggling.

According to Mr. Charles Amenyaglo, Director of Special Services at COCOBOD, the smuggled beans were destined for sale in Togo to bypass Ghana’s regulated cocoa pricing system. He described the interception as proof that cocoa smuggling remains a pressing challenge and reaffirmed COCOBOD’s commitment to protecting the country’s cocoa industry.

“This interception is proof that cocoa smuggling remains a serious issue in Ghana, and we are intensifying our efforts to track down these illegal operations to protect our farmers and the economy,” Mr. Amenyaglo stated.

COCOBOD’s Head of Security also emphasized the Board’s resolve to curb smuggling, assuring that authorities will continue working with security agencies to safeguard Ghana’s cocoa sector.

Meanwhile, authorities have issued a strong warning that individuals caught engaging in cocoa smuggling will face strict legal consequences. The intercepted consignment is currently in the custody of COCOBOD and GRA, pending further investigations.

COCOBOD is urging the public to report any suspicious cocoa-related activities to help protect Ghana’s cocoa industry, which remains a key pillar of the national economy.

The post COCOBOD, GRA Intercept 1,115 Gallons of Smuggled Cocoa Near Togo Border appeared first on The Ghanaian Chronicle.

Read Full Story