FDA Seizes Massive Haul of Illicit Tobacco Products in Accra Crackdown

Accra, Ghana – The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has conducted a large-scale enforcement operation in Accra, leading to the seizure of an extensive cache of illicit tobacco products, including unregistered shisha, cigarettes, and smokeless tobacco items.

The raid, carried out by the FDA’s Surveillance and Enforcement Unit, targeted several distribution points and retail outlets in hotspots across the capital. Authorities report that the confiscated products did not meet regulatory standards and posed serious risks to public health.

“These products are unregistered, illegally imported, and often contain harmful levels of nicotine and other toxic substances,” said Mrs. Delese Mimi Darko, CEO of the FDA. “We are acting swiftly to protect the public and dismantle the networks distributing these dangerous goods.”

Illicit Trade on the Rise

The FDA warns that illegal tobacco trade is on the rise, fueled by black-market importation and the growing popularity of flavored tobacco among youth. The seized items included counterfeit foreign brands and locally packaged products without proper health warnings or ingredient disclosures.

“What’s most alarming is that some of these products are directly marketed to young people through flashy packaging and misleading health claims,” a senior enforcement officer noted.

Legal Action & Public Awareness

The FDA says those behind the illicit operations will be prosecuted under the Public Health Act and other relevant laws. Retailers found selling unapproved tobacco items could face fines, imprisonment, or revocation of licenses.

Simultaneously, the Authority is ramping up public education campaigns, urging consumers to verify the FDA registration status of tobacco products before purchase.

A Call for Community Vigilance

Health advocates have lauded the FDA's crackdown but are calling for broader cooperation with Customs, Police, and community watchdogs to stop the flow of illegal tobacco at entry points and in informal markets.

“Enforcement is crucial, but so is awareness. The community must help expose dealers who value profit over human lives,” said Dr. Nana Aba Mensah of the Ghana Health Service.