A high-speed chase along the Nanton-Gushegu road has led to the interception of a massive consignment of illicit goods, as customs officials in the Northern Region cracked down on smuggling operations.

Acting on intelligence, a task force from the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) set up a checkpoint on February 11, 2025, to halt a suspected smuggling vehicle. However, rather than stopping, the driver sped past, triggering a swift pursuit.

When officials finally intercepted the vehicle, registered GS 7592-13, the driver refused to disclose any details about the cargo, claiming only the owner could provide such information.

Shortly after, an individual arrived on a motorbike, identifying himself as the owner, yet he too remained tight-lipped.

With no cooperation from the suspects, authorities impounded the vehicle and transported it to the Tamale Collection Regional Headquarters for further examination.

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A formal inspection was scheduled for the next day, but both the driver and the supposed owner failed to appear.

A subsequent search on February 19 confirmed suspicions—the vehicle was carrying 450 boxes of Business Royal Cigarettes and five boxes of Tapentadol tablets, restricted goods requiring proper import permits.

With no valid documentation presented, customs officials officially seized the consignment under Notice of Seizure Number 248806 on February 25, 2025.

Brigadier General Zibrim Bawah Ayorrogo, Commissioner of Customs, visited the regional headquarters to assess the situation and emphasized the need for collaboration in combating smuggling.

“We have intensified efforts with National Security, the Narcotics Control Commission, and other agencies to curb the smuggling of illicit goods,” he stated.

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