Officers of the Preventive Unit of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Customs Division have intercepted and seized 560 units of CHANG FANG diesel engines at the Golden Jubilee Terminal at Tema Port, in what authorities suspect to be equipment intended for illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) operations.
The seizure was made during a routine cargo inspection after vigilant customs officers flagged the consignment for further examination.
According to officials, the engines, powerful industrial diesel units commonly used to power water pumps and dredging equipment at illegal mining sites — were concealed within a container shipment believed to be destined for unlawful mining activities across parts of the country.
The Commissioner-General of the GRA, Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, commended the officers involved for their integrity and commitment to protecting the national interest.
“Some good behaviour like this from my officers is rewarding and must be recognised by Ghanaians. They chose national interest and preventive duty ahead of personal gains,” he stated.
He further indicated that a full investigation has been launched to identify the importer, clearing agents, and the intended destination of the engines.
“We will investigate the importer and the agents involved. Ghana’s ports will not be used as a gateway for equipment that fuels environmental destruction,” the Commissioner-General added.
Authorities say the interception forms part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on supply chains that support illegal mining, which continues to pose a major threat to Ghana’s rivers, forests, and ecological stability.
Customs officials at Tema Port have intensified cargo screening measures as government agencies step up the fight against galamsey logistics networks operating through the country’s ports.