Akpatoeme(V/R), July 14, GNA- Officials of the Customs Excise and Preventive Service (CEPS) and Environmental Health Department at Aflao last Friday came under intense pressure from the public to temporary suspend the destruction of a large quantity of assorted unwholesome contraband goods at Akpatoeme near Penyi.

The destruction, however, took place at a remote location later. Inhabitants from the surrounding communities besieged the original destruction site at Akpatoeme and struggled among themselves and with the officials, in attempts to retrieve some of the goods, even from the blazing fire.

Some of the items destroyed were ivory, pornographic materials, pharmaceuticals, including Chinese made sex stimulants, alcoholic beverages, mosquito coils and sleek knives.

Others were medicated soap, cigarettes, un-matched shoes and sandals, paints and pirated compact discs (CDs). Mr. William Adzraku, Senior Collector of CEPS, who led the team, told the GNA that the Service has stepped up its operations to deal with increasing attempts at smuggling contraband goods into the country. He appealed to the border communities to avoid aiding the smugglers and assist with vital information towards safeguarding the country's interest and security.

Mr. John Ametepe, Chief Environmental Officer in charge of the Aflao border said the smuggling of unwholesome goods including pharmaceuticals into the country, needed to be checked thoroughly, in order to protect the health of the citizenry.