Tema Port Authorities Seize Tramadol and Counterfeit Drugs in Major Smuggling Bust
Tema Port officials have successfully intercepted a major pharmaceutical smuggling operation involving Tramadol and counterfeit drugs. The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, in collaboration with the Food and Drugs Authority and national security operatives, is investigating the source and intent behind the illicit shipment.
Tema, Greater Accra Region – June 10, 2025 –
In a significant crackdown on pharmaceutical smuggling, Tema Port authorities have seized a large consignment of illegally imported Tramadol and counterfeit drugs, exposing a sophisticated smuggling network targeting Ghana's pharmaceutical market.
The illicit shipment was intercepted during routine inspections by the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), in collaboration with the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), and National Security operatives.
According to sources at the port, the drugs were hidden within falsely labeled cargo containers meant to disguise their contents as generic household items. Among the seized items were high-dose Tramadol tablets—banned due to their abuse potential—as well as fake antibiotics, painkillers, and supplements suspected to be manufactured under unsafe conditions.
“This is a serious public health risk. The circulation of such unapproved and fake medicines can have deadly consequences,” an FDA official stated during a media briefing.
Authorities have since detained individuals linked to the import documentation and are expanding investigations to uncover the broader network behind the operation.
The seizure comes at a time when Ghana continues to battle the illicit trade in pharmaceuticals, which not only undermines the health system but also endangers lives, particularly among the youth who often abuse drugs like Tramadol.
The GPHA has reaffirmed its commitment to tightening inspection protocols and enhancing collaboration with regulatory agencies to curb drug smuggling.
“We will not allow Tema Port to be used as a conduit for illegal and dangerous pharmaceutical imports. This seizure is just the beginning,” a port authority spokesperson added.
The FDA is urging the public to avoid purchasing drugs from unlicensed vendors and report suspicious products to help fight the spread of counterfeit medicines.
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