File photo: The consignment was impounded at the Tema Port
The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has reportedly seized a 40-foot container filled with pharmaceutical opioids at the Tema Port that was destined for Niger.
According to a report by graphic.com.gh, the consignment, lacking proper labeling, did not include the details of the manufacturer, except for a “Made in India” inscription on the strips.
Further details from the report indicate that the consignment had not been properly declared to customs, an act that constitutes a customs offense, thus warranting the seizure.
The container, upon inspection, was found to contain Tapentadol 120mg, 40 cartons of Diazole Loperamide 3mg, and 190 cartons of Chlorpheniramine Maleate, along with 320 cartons of other pharmaceuticals.
A looming opioid crisis in Ghana
In February 2025, a BBC Africa Eye investigation exposed a looming opioid crisis in Ghana and other West African countries, spotlighting the illegal export of highly addictive, unlicensed opioids from India.
The investigation focused on Aveo Pharmaceuticals, a Mumbai-based company, which was found to be manufacturing and distributing a dangerous combination of Tapentadol (a potent opioid) and carisoprodol (an addictive muscle relaxant banned in Europe).
These drugs, sold under various brand names like Tafrodol, are not approved for use anywhere globally due to their severe health risks, including respiratory issues, seizures, and potential overdoses.
The exposé revealed how these cheap, widely available pills have fueled a growing public health crisis, particularly among Ghanaian youth, with street sales rampant in some cities across the country.
Amid the report, social media has been flooded with videos of some youth seemingly high on these highly addictive drugs.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health, alongside regulatory bodies, has vowed to crack down on the illicit trade.
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Meanwhile, watch as Otumfuo urges government to cancel or review Free SHS if students cannot be fed or accommodated