Vision for Accelerated Sustainable Development (VAST Ghana) has lauded the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and its Customs Division for their recent high-impact operations that led to the seizure of illicit tobacco products and opioid drugs valued at over GH¢40 million.
In a strong show of support, VAST Ghana praised the GRA for its unwavering commitment to protecting public health and upholding national laws.
The organization highlighted two major busts — one in Tamale involving illicit cigarettes and tapentadol tablets worth GH¢20.6 million and another at the Tema Port where opioid drugs valued at approximately GH¢20 million were intercepted in a joint operation with security agencies.
“This bold and commendable action demonstrates the GRA’s dedication to shielding our communities from harmful and illegal products,” said a statement issued by VAST Ghana.
Tackling illicit trade in tobacco
Labram Musah, Executive Director of VAST Ghana, recognized the GRA’s continued efforts in tackling the illicit trade in tobacco and pharmaceuticals — industries notorious for their risks to both public health and the national economy.
However, he emphasized the need for improved transparency, particularly regarding how seized items are handled post-confiscation.
“While we applaud these decisive seizures, there is growing concern about the lack of public information on the fate of previously intercepted products — including a GH¢7.95 million consignment of illicit tobacco seized in November 2023. Transparency around these processes is critical for accountability and public trust,” Musah noted.
VAST Ghana reiterated that as a signatory to the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC), Ghana is bound to ensure the environmentally safe destruction of seized tobacco products and to prevent their reintroduction into the market.
The organization is urging the GRA, together with the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and other relevant agencies, to publicly disclose detailed reports on seizures, disposal procedures, and any alternative methods considered.
Such reports, they argue, would reinforce confidence in the enforcement and regulatory framework while offering insights into the effectiveness of ongoing anti-illicit trade measures.
“Publishing these reports not only enhances transparency but also strengthens collaborative efforts with civil society and public health advocates,” Musah added.
VAST Ghana reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside government institutions to promote responsible governance, sustainable enforcement, and improved public health outcomes for a safer, healthier Ghana.