53 sidearms, 74 magazines, and 65 rounds of live ammunition were among the smuggled firearms seized by Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) customs agents from a container at Tema Port. Two suspects were arrested as a result of the bold smuggling attempt that was discovered during a regular examination.

In a significant security development, two people have been taken into custody by the Ghana Revenue Authority's (GRA) Customs Division in relation to an attempted weapons smuggling effort via Tema Port. 53 sidearms, 74 magazines, and 65 live rounds of ammunition were among the confiscated materials. They were hidden in a 40-foot container bearing the registration number MEDU 449-6951.

Speaking to the media on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, GRA-Customs Commissioner Brigadier General Zibrim Bawah Ayorrogo disclosed that the hidden goods were found on Friday, November 15, when customs officials conducted a routine examination at the Golden Jubilee Terminal.

Arriving at Tema Port from the United States of America, the 40-foot container was said to contain personal belongings and automobiles. In the presence of the declarant and the agent, customs officials found three suitcases with 53 sidearms, 74 magazines, and 65 live rounds of ammunition during a routine inspection of the cargo. The GRA Intelligence and Investigative Unit and the Preventive Unit were promptly notified by the customs crew.



The GRA intelligence team verified that the concealed guns were present, and they were confiscated along with other items for close inspection. In connection with the container, the agent and the consignee's representative were both taken into custody and turned over to the Marine and Railway Police Station in Tema for additional examination.

Brigadier General Ayorrogo emphasized in his remarks the significance of acquiring the appropriate authorization before bringing firearms and ammunition into the nation. Section 138 of the Customs Act 2015 (Act 891) states that weapons, magazines, and live ammunition that are not declared or concealed constitute smuggling. The Ministry of the Interior must first grant importers the required licenses and permits before they may bring guns and ammunition into Ghana.

He cautioned that the illegal importation of firearms and ammunition is a serious danger to public safety and national security in Ghana and is punishable by law.

Weapons and ammunition smuggling increases violence, supports criminal organizations, and puts innocent lives in jeopardy. Under Ghanaian law, it is not only unlawful but also punitive to engage in such illicit actions. The Commissioner reaffirmed the Customs Division's steadfast dedication to preserving national security and peace via strict enforcement and inspection protocols.