Ghana’s Ministry of Health and the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) have led a joint operation to destroy 230 cartons of seized opioid pharmaceuticals worth GH₵20 million. The consignment, containing Tafrodol, Rahol Tapentadol, and Timaking 120mg and 250mg, was impounded at the Tema Port on March 14, 2025, and later incinerated at the Vigour DW Enterprises incinerator in Katamanso New Land.
The operation was carried out by a team of officials from the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), FDA, Customs, and joint security operatives. Initially, the consignment was declared as transiting from Ghana to Nigeria, but investigations revealed that the importer was not a Ghanaian and was destined for Niger.
Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, emphasized that Ghana will not allow its ports to be used as a transit point for illicit drugs. He stressed that only the Kotoka International Airport and Tema ports are authorized for drug import and export, and security agencies have been instructed to impound any drugs entering the country through land borders.
The Chief Executive of the FDA, Dr. Delese A. Darko, highlighted the dangers of opioid use, citing potential health effects such as nausea, vomiting, hypertension, hypotension, and tachycardia. The destruction of the seized consignment is a significant step in Ghana’s efforts to combat the opioid crisis and protect public health.
Key Details of the Seized Consignment:
- Tafrodol: 128 cartons
- Timaking Tapentadol: 92 cartons
- Rahol Tapentadol: 10 cartons
The government plans to further investigate the agent and importer involved in the seized consignment and is in discussions with the Niger government to determine whether they authorized the shipment.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
