Customs officers attached to the Golden Jubilee Terminal at Tema Port intercepted a dangerous consignment of undeclared weapons originating from the United States.
The discovery occurred at approximately 5:15 p.m. on Friday, September 25, 2026, when two vigilant Customs officers subjected a package to further examination during a routine inspection.
Hidden among items declared merely as personal effects, officers uncovered an assault rifle, two pistols, and 610 rounds of ammunition, alongside related accessories.
Official details of the seizure were shared by Florence Asante, Deputy Commissioner in charge of Communications and Public Affairs at the GRA, during a press briefing on Monday, September 28, 2026.
Asante explained that the interception forms part of an intensified physical examination and scanning regime across Ghana's entry and exit points aimed at preventing the illegal importation of prohibited and restricted items.
Following the seizure, the firearms and ammunition were promptly handed over to the Ghana Police Service for further investigation and legal action.
Beyond the immediate seizure, the incident serves as a crucial warning to freight forwarders, clearing agents, and individual importers across the country.
Under Ghana's Arms and Ammunition Act, 1972 (NRCD 9), as amended, firearms and ammunition are classified as restricted goods, requiring explicit prior authorization and a permit from the Ministry of the Interior before importation or exportation.
Addressing individuals who accept consignments on behalf of third parties, Asante cautioned importers to inspect and verify package contents prior to shipping.

She emphasized that claiming ignorance regarding the contents of a container will not necessarily exempt an importer from criminal liability under Ghanaian law.
Urging full transparency and legal compliance, Asante instructed importers:
Make sure that you have a licence to import those items and make sure you declare them correctly so that you will not fall foul of the law.
This case serves as a timely reminder for all Ghanaians—especially those receiving personal effect packages from abroad—to exercise due diligence and respect national security protocols.
The interception of assault rifles and ammunition at Tema Port underscores the dedication of Ghana Customs officers in protecting our communities from unlawful weapons.
As port security measures continue to tighten, importers and clearing agents must prioritize legal compliance, proper licensing, and honest declarations.
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