A large consignment of dried cocoa beans, intended for smuggling, has been intercepted by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) in Dambai, located in the Krachi East Municipality of the Oti Region.
The consignment, consisting of three trucks disguised as crates of minerals, reportedly originated from the Ashanti Region, passed through the Eastern Region, and crossed the Volta River from Afram Plains into Oti before NIB officials intercepted it.
According to Ghana News Agency (GNA), the drivers and their assistants are currently in police custody, assisting with investigations.
This incident has occurred amidst growing concerns about cross-border smuggling and other illegal activities in the Oti Region. Reports indicate a rise in cocoa smuggling activities in areas such as Guan, Kadjebi, Nkwanta North, and Nkwanta South.
Cocoa smugglers are said to be using northern routes in the Oti Region to illegally transport cocoa beans to Togo. Officials from the cocoa industry, whose names were withheld, have expressed alarm over this increasing trend, which is allegedly being supported by organized networks and individuals.
They believe the higher prices offered by Togolese buyers, where the cocoa market is unregulated, are fueling the smuggling activities. The officials have urged the public to report any instances of cocoa smuggling to the authorities, encouraging the provision of rewards for information that leads to arrests and prosecutions.
“We call on all Ghanaians to help fight against cocoa smuggling. Your information can safeguard Ghana’s cocoa industry and economy,” the officials stressed.
The GNA also uncovered a new strategy used by smugglers, where they hide cocoa beans among crates of assorted drinks to bypass police checkpoints unnoticed.
Residents have voiced concerns about how cocoa smuggling undermines the nation’s economy and threatens the livelihoods of farmers. Shadrach Badekebo James, a Dambai resident, called on the government to prioritize resources for the NIB and to reward the Oti Regional Command of the Bureau for their commitment to protecting the country.