By GhanaNewsPage COCOBOD Seizes Trucks Attempting Cocoa Smuggling in Bono Region
The Bono Regional Office of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has seized three heavy-duty trucks suspected of smuggling cocoa and lumber to neighboring countries such as Burkina Faso, Togo, or Côte d’Ivoire. The seizure occurred at Nkrankwanta in the Dormaa West District of the Bono Region, following a tip-off.
COCOBOD Seizes Trucks Attempting Cocoa Smuggling in Bono Region
Also Read: National Food Suppliers Ready to Deliver to SHSs
Details of the Seizure
The trucks, identified as Man Diesel vehicles, carried registration numbers:
- GR 7237-21
- AS 5278-23
- GR 314-24
According to Mr. Michael Paddy Kwasi Asumanu, Bono Regional Administrator of COCOBOD, the drivers had cleverly concealed the cocoa bags beneath lumber in an attempt to evade detection. However, the plan was foiled, and the trucks were impounded.
Despite the successful interception, the drivers fled the scene and remain at large. The impounded trucks are currently in the custody of the Bono Regional Office of the Forestry Commission (FC) in Sunyani.
Also Read: Haruna Iddrisu to Submit Recommendations on LGBTQ Bill to Mahama
Legal and Administrative Measures
COCOBOD is now working to secure a court order to take full possession of the confiscated cocoa bags, ensuring they are properly accounted for and integrated into legal trade channels.
Mr. Emmanuel Ntiako, Deputy Bono Regional Manager of the Forestry Commission, confirmed that his office is awaiting detailed information regarding the lumber found alongside the cocoa.
The Growing Threat of Cocoa Smuggling
Cocoa smuggling remains a significant challenge for Ghana, which is one of the world’s largest cocoa producers. Smugglers often exploit border regions to illegally transport cocoa to neighboring countries, where they can fetch higher prices or avoid local taxes.
Impacts of Smuggling:
- Economic Losses: Smuggling undermines Ghana’s cocoa export revenues and disrupts the supply chain.
- Industry Challenges: The illicit trade threatens the livelihoods of licensed cocoa farmers and the sustainability of the cocoa industry.
- Security Concerns: Smuggling operations often involve organized networks, posing broader risks to regional security.
Also Read: Government to Fulfill All DDEP Repayments: Ato Forson Assures
COCOBOD’s Commitment to Combating Smuggling
COCOBOD has intensified efforts to curb cocoa smuggling by:
- Strengthening collaborations with security agencies to monitor and intercept smuggling activities.
- Encouraging the public to provide anonymous tips on suspicious activities.
- Launching awareness campaigns to educate communities near border areas about the consequences of cocoa smuggling.
The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving cocoa smuggling to local authorities. By working together, stakeholders can help protect Ghana’s cocoa industry and ensure its continued growth and sustainability.
Stay tuned for updates on this case as COCOBOD and the Forestry Commission proceed with investigations and legal actions.
Also Read: Road Tolls to Return, Finance Minister Designate Confirms
Tags:
- Ghana Cocoa Smuggling News
- Bono Region Cocoa Seizure
- COCOBOD Smuggling Interception
- Ghana Cocoa Board Anti-Smuggling Efforts
- Cocoa and Lumber Smuggling Ghana
