Officers from the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority intercepted a suspicious vehicle at the Aflao border crossing on suspicion of smuggling precious minerals. According to reports from MyJoyOnline and GhanaWeb, the search of the vehicle revealed approximately five kilograms of unrefined gold bullion hidden within the transport. The driver failed to produce valid export permits or documentation required by the Minerals Commission of Ghana.
A report from the Ghana News Agency states that the seizure occurred during routine security checks conducted by border officials. The gold was confiscated as part of coordinated efforts to prevent the illegal extraction and subsequent exportation of national resources without proper taxation and regulatory oversight. The Customs Division indicated that the seized bullion would be handed over to the appropriate authorities for valuation and further investigation.
Official statements from the Ghana Revenue Authority suggest that the persons involved in the shipment are currently assisting with inquiries. Citinewsroom reports that the suspect attempted to bypass the main scanning systems before being flagged by alert personnel. No formal charges have been announced yet as investigators work to verify the origin of the seized minerals and identify the intended recipient across the border.
This interception follows recent directives from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to intensify surveillance at all exit points. Graphic Online reports that the government is focused on tracking gold movements to ensure compliance with the Precious Minerals Marketing Company guidelines. The Customs Division maintains that all mineral exports must undergo official assaying processes before being cleared for departure from the Republic of Ghana.