A significant consignment of dried cocoa beans, reportedly intended for smuggling, has been intercepted by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) in Dambai, situated in the Krachi East Municipality of the Oti Region.
The three truckloads, disguised as crates of minerals, are believed to have traveled from the Ashanti Region, passed through the Eastern Region, and crossed the Volta River from Afram Plains into Oti before being stopped by NIB officials.
According to information gathered by the Ghana News Agency (GNA), the drivers and their assistants are currently in custody, aiding in the investigation.
This incident raises concerns regarding smuggling and other cross-border crimes occurring in the Oti Region. Reports indicate an increase in cocoa smuggling activities in areas like Guan, Kadjebi, Nkwanta North, and Nkwanta South Municipality.
Additionally, it has been reported that cocoa smugglers are increasingly using northern routes in the Oti Region to transport illicit cocoa beans to neighboring Togo.
Officials from the cocoa industry have voiced concerns over this illegal trade, suggesting it is facilitated by unscrupulous individuals and networks.
They noted that the rising cocoa smuggling from Ghana to Togo, where marketing is unregulated, is driven by attractive prices offered by Togolese buyers, exacerbating the problem.
Officials from the Ghana Cocoa Board have urged the public to report any cocoa smuggling activities to security agencies, suggesting that rewards should be given to those who provide information leading to the arrest and prosecution of offenders.
“We encourage all Ghanaians to join the fight against cocoa smuggling; your information can help protect Ghana’s cocoa industry and economy,” they stated.
The GNA has reported that cocoa smugglers have adopted new tactics to evade arrest, using assorted drinks as concealment to pass through police barriers with their contraband undetected.
Residents have reacted to the cocoa smuggling incident, stating it undermines Ghana’s economy and threatens farmers’ livelihoods, urging the government to prioritize equipping the NIB to address these issues.
Mr. Shadrach Badekebo James, a Dambai resident interviewed by GNA, appealed to the government to reward the Oti Regional Command of the NIB for their dedication and sacrifices to national duty.
According to GNA, the police have yet to take over the case.
