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GRA Seizes 560 Diesel Engines Intended for Illegal Mining at Tema Port
Officers of the Preventive Unit of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Customs Division have intercepted 560 units of CHANG FANG diesel engines at the Golden Jubilee Terminal, Tema Port, in what authorities believe was an attempt to supply illegal small-scale mining operations, commonly known as galamsey.
The seizure occurred during a routine cargo inspection after vigilant customs officers flagged the shipment for further examination. According to officials, the powerful industrial diesel engines—typically used to operate water pumps and dredging equipment at illegal mining sites—were hidden in a container suspected to be destined for unlawful mining activities in various parts of the country.
Commissioner-General of the GRA, Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, praised the officers involved for their integrity and commitment to national interest.
“Acts like this by our officers are commendable and must be recognised by Ghanaians. They placed national interest and duty above personal gain,” he said.
He added that a full investigation has been launched to identify the importer, clearing agents, and the engines’ intended destination.
“We will thoroughly investigate the importer and all agents involved. Ghana’s ports will not be used as a gateway for equipment that fuels environmental destruction,” the Commissioner-General stressed.
Authorities said the interception is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle supply chains that support illegal mining, which continues to threaten Ghana’s rivers, forests, and ecological stability.
Customs officials at Tema Port have intensified cargo screening measures as government agencies step up efforts to combat galamsey logistics networks operating through the country’s ports.
Story:EfuaNessa
Source : Locotvgh