The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has warned importers to verify the contents of consignments they bring into the country after Customs officers discovered an assault rifle, two pistols and 610 rounds of ammunition hidden in a shipment of personal effects at the Tema Port.
The consignment arrived from the United States and was examined at the Golden Jubilee Terminal at about 5:15 p.m. on Friday, September 25, 2026.
The weapons were uncovered after two Customs officers conducting a routine inspection ordered a further examination of the shipment. The firearms, ammunition and related accessories had not been declared to Customs.
The Deputy Commissioner in charge of Communications and Public Affairs at the GRA, Florence Asante, disclosed this to the press on Monday, September 28.
She said the discovery formed part of intensified scanning and physical examination of goods at Ghana’s ports of entry and exit to prevent the illegal importation of prohibited and restricted items.
The seized weapons and ammunition have been handed over to the Police for further action.
Ms Asante explained that Ghana’s customs regime classifies arms and ammunition as restricted goods, requiring importers to obtain a permit from the Ministry of the Interior.
Under the Arms and Ammunition Act, 1972 (NRCD 9), as amended, firearms and ammunition cannot be imported or exported without prior authorisation.
She therefore cautioned importers who receive goods on behalf of others to establish exactly what their consignments contain before accepting them.
According to her, importers must exercise due diligence when receiving items from third parties, as ignorance of the contents of a consignment may not necessarily protect them from liability under the law.
She urged importers to ensure they have the appropriate licences and accurately declare all restricted items to Customs.
Source: Wesleyannews.com
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