Police in the Volta Region have intercepted a fuel tanker suspected to be involved in a cocoa smuggling operation.
The vehicle, which was believed to be transporting petrol, was discovered to be carrying a large quantity of cocoa beans instead.
The interception took place on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, in the Peki enclave, following a tip-off. The tanker, registered GN 3801-13, was reportedly en route from Madina in Accra to Jasikan.
Police believe the cocoa beans were being smuggled out of Ghana into neighbouring Togo.
He added that a serious manhunt is underway for the owner of the tanker.
A police spokesperson, speaking to Graphic Online in Ho on Saturday, May 17, confirmed that the vehicle has been impounded and the driver—whose identity is being withheld—has been granted bail and is assisting with ongoing investigations.
The intercepted cocoa beans have since been handed over to the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) for proper handling.
Authorities have launched a manhunt for the owner of the tanker, who is currently on the run.
The incident highlights the growing concerns over cross-border smuggling of key commodities and the security risks associated with disguising such operations under the guise of legitimate transport.
Credit: 3news