Tema, Oct 12, GNA – The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has confirmed the impoundment of a container containing weapons at the Tema Port.
A statement released by Customs and signed by Mrs Florence Asante, Assistant Commissioner, Communication and Public Affairs, said the container was described on arrival at the Tema Port as containing personal effects, households goods, and a carding machine.
According to Customs, it was flagged as “Red Channel” and after examination, “eighteen (18) packages identified as restricted items were found in the container. These included
436 Pistols (Side Arms), 26 packs of 50 pieces of Ammunition, and 1(40ml) piece of Pepper Spray”.
These items, Customs noted had been imported into the country without the necessary permits from the Ministry of Interior, adding that the items had also not been declared to Customs on arrival.
“An inventory of the items was taken in the presence of officers of the Preventive Wing of the Customs Division (Intelligence & Examination Officer), Bureau of National Investigations, National Security and the Police. All representatives, including the clearing agents signed against
the total number of arms and ammunitions seized”
The statement indicated that a seizure notice was issued to the clearing agent and the seized consignment was placed in the custody of the Customs Division.
The clearing agent of the said consignment, Custom noted, was currently assisting the Tema Harbour Police Command with the investigation as the Customs Division had provided the Police with the necessary information.
Customs gave the assurance that the outcome of the investigations by the Police on the restricted items would be made public.
The statement described as “worrying, mischievous and premature any information that seeks to imply that the seized ammunition is being kept for onward release to some ‘big men”.
The Customs Division of the GRA used the opportunity to caution all importers that the importation of arms and ammunition could be carried out only with a permit from the Ministry of Interior, and such items must be declared on importation.
“We also assure the general public that the Customs Division will not relent in its regulatory duties at the nation’s ports and other points of entry to ensure the safety of all citizens”.
GNA