A joint task force comprising the Tree Crop Development Authority, the Oil Palm Development Association of Ghana, the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, and National Security has successfully intercepted over 1,000 units of 25 litres of vegetable oil suspected to be smuggled.
The operation unfolded at a warehouse situated at CMB, revealing two truckloads containing 650 and 350 units, respectively. Additionally, 450 units were discovered in a shop within the same vicinity.
This significant seizure occurred during the second day of an anti-smuggling task force exercise conducted in the Greater Accra Region. The task force, covering various locations such as Madina, Dome Market, Okaishie, and CMB, aimed to clamp down on the illegal influx of smuggled goods into the region.
During interrogation, one of the truck drivers claimed that the suspected smuggled vegetable oil originated from a warehouse at Spintex. The seized oil containers bore labels indicating “Produced for Oki General Trading LLC Dubai (U.A.E)” and “Product of Indonesia,” prompting the joint task force to impound the items for further investigation.
While visiting Madina, the task force identified a warehouse engaged in legitimate business operations. However, it noted that the presence of suspected smuggled oil in the market adversely affected businesses offering locally produced vegetable oil, as smuggled products were sold at comparatively lower prices.
At Dome Market in Accra, the task force took decisive action by directing four shops to cease the sale of three brands of vegetable oil suspected to be smuggled. Sales were suspended until shop owners provided the necessary documentation proving the legitimacy of the products.
Paul Amaning, the coordinator of the task force, seized the opportunity to educate market women about the risks associated with selling unbranded oil. He commended the positive trend observed during the exercise, noting the availability of locally produced vegetable oil in many shops.
Amaning urged traders to continue supporting “Made in Ghana” vegetable oil, thereby promoting local products and contributing to economic growth.
The successful operation of the joint task force underscores ongoing efforts to combat smuggling activities, safeguard local industries, and ensure fair competition within the vegetable oil market. This seizure of suspected smuggled goods reaffirms the commitment to upholding the integrity of Ghana's economic landscape.
