We are pleased to announce that the National Anti-Cocoa Smuggling Task Force of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has successfully intercepted a significant amount of smuggled cocoa beans in the Eastern Region of Ghana.
After a month of dedicated intelligence-led operations, a total of 634 bags of cocoa beans were confiscated. On April 15, a truck transporting 504 bags of cocoa beans concealed within poultry feed products was apprehended. Subsequently, on May 7, another 130 bags of cocoa beans hidden under gravel in a tipper truck were seized in Mpraeso, Kwahu South Municipality.
The individuals involved in the smuggling attempt, identified as Kwasi Edem, 55, and Dennis Hodo, 28, a tipper truck driver, have been taken into police custody at the Mpraeso Central Police Station to assist in the ongoing investigations. Additionally, the authorities have successfully concluded an investigation into the first apprehended suspect and are set to arraign them on Wednesday, May 8.
Emmanuel Atta Ofori-Snr, Municipal Chief Executive for Kwahu South, has confirmed that the Kwahu area has been flagged by National Security as a transit point for smugglers since last year. As a result, the District Security Council has been maintaining heightened vigilance to combat such illicit activities.
It is evident that the collaborative efforts of the National Anti-Cocoa Smuggling Task Force and local authorities have proven effective in curbing cocoa smuggling in the region. We commend their dedication to upholding the integrity of Ghana's cocoa industry and safeguarding its economic interests.
The successful interception of these illicit cocoa beans underscores the commitment of COCOBOD and its partners to combatting smuggling activities and preserving the reputation of Ghana's cocoa sector. We remain steadfast in our efforts to maintain a transparent and accountable cocoa supply chain for the benefit of all stakeholders.
-source Starrfm | curated by Aisha Yakubu | GhanaCrimes
