Ghana Ranked 5th in Cocaine Seizures at Belgium Port

Fresh data from Belgian customs authorities reveals that Ghana is now the fifth largest origin country for cocaine seized at the famous Port of Antwerp. The new ranking puts Ghana right behind Latin American heavyweights like Ecuador, Costa Rica, Brazil, and Colombia.

This development makes Ghana the only African country in the top five transit spots entering Belgium.

Drug enforcement experts clarify that nobody cultivates cocaine in Ghana. Cartels source the substance from South American Andes regions and route shipments through West Africa to beat direct security checks in Europe.

Snooping syndicates hide illicit packages inside legitimate agricultural goods moving through Tema Port. Last year, Belgian officers uncovered over 2,800 kilograms of cocaine tucked neatly inside bags of cassava flour shipped from Ghana.

Security analysts warn that international drug cartels are exploiting busy trade routes across West Africa. When traffickers notice tight screening at traditional South American hubs, they divert cargo to regional ports with high export traffic.

Ghanaian Narcotics Control Commission officers are expanding joint operations with international partners to stop cartels from corrupting legitimate local businesses.

Local exporters fear these security gaps could cause extra delays for genuine Ghanaian goods going into European markets. Strengthened container scanning at local harbors remains critical to cleaning the national image.

Strict port security checks and clear maritime intelligence will help secure maritime routes while keeping Ghana safe from organized international crime.

Also Read: GRA officials face court over tema port cocaine scandal

Source: Ghana News Page