Over 400 pistols, ammunition seized at Ghanaian port

October 12, 2020 Elwin Mandowa

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Ghanaian authorities have confirmed the seizure of some 436 pistols and ammunition at the country’s major port in Tema.

A 20-footer container containing 26 packs of 50 pieces of ammunition and 1(40millimetre) piece of pepper spray was also impounded by officials.

Ghana’s Revenue Authority said the weapons were illegally imported from Turkey.

The arms and ammunition were concealed in personal effects made up of clothing, shoes and bags.

The revenue authority in the statement said the arms were detected during a physical examination exercise at the Terminal Three facility by officials of the Tema Command of Customs.

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“The container described on arrival at the Tema port as containing Personal Effects, Household Goods and a Carding Machine was flagged as ‘Red Channel”.

After examination, eighteen (18) packages identified as restricted items were found in the container. These include 436 Pistols (Side Arms), 26 packs of 50 pieces of Ammunition and 1 (40ml) piece of Pepper Spray,” the statement noted.

The statement said that the items had been imported into the country without the necessary permits from the Ministry of Interior and the items had also not been declared to Customs on arrival.

The arms and ammunitions are currently being kept at the armoury of GRA to allow for investigations.

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The clearing agent at the centre of the seizure is also being interrogated.