More Than 500,000 Tramadol Pills Seized In Tema Port Drug Bust

Authorities at Tema Port have intercepted a large haul of powerful Tramadol tablets and capsules concealed in shipments linked to Hayaq Logistics.

The operation, carried out by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) in collaboration with Customs, uncovered two separate consignments of TIMAKING 250 branded Tramadol a highly addictive opioid often misused as a recreational drug.

In total, more than 500,000 units of the restricted medication were confiscated.

The cargo was flagged for violating multiple provisions of the Revenue Administration Act and the Customs Act, triggering an immediate investigation and seizure.

Officials revealed that the goods were deliberately misdeclared to evade detection and bypass regulatory controls.

The covert nature of the shipment has raised fresh concerns over the growing complexity of smuggling methods at Ghana’s busiest port.

“This seizure sends a clear message: we are reinforcing border security to combat the illicit importation of pharmaceuticals and contraband,” a GRA official said. “Illegal drug trade not only threatens public health but also fuels criminal enterprises. It must be stamped out.”

Tramadol, classified as a controlled drug in Ghana, requires prior authorization and licensing from the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) permits the seized cargo lacked.

Over 500,000 tramadol pills seized at Tema port in crackdown on illegal drug imports

Officials at the Tema Port have intercepted a large cache of high-strength Tramadol tablets and capsules concealed within cargo linked to Hayaq Logistics.#3NewsGH pic.twitter.com/mXV9fsaFXT

— #3NewsGH (@3NewsGH) June 19, 2025

Source: Nkonkonsa.com