FDA intercepts GH¢11.5m worth of tapentadol tablets at Ghana’s Kpoglu border

In the Volta Region, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has seized a consignment of Tapentadol Hydrochloride tablets, popularly known as “Red,” valued at GH¢11.5 million at the Kpoglu border.

The interception, made on 14 August 2025, involved about 7,700 tablets of 250mg Tapentadol hidden in sacks aboard a truck with registration number TG 6891 BI. The vehicle was entering Ghana from Nigeria.

Confirming the operation, Volta and Oti Regional Head of the FDA, Mr. Gorden Akurugu, revealed that the consignment was intercepted during a routine surveillance exercise.

The driver, identified as Oliver Takra of Go Express Transport Company, along with an agent, was immediately taken into custody and handed over to the police.

Two other suspects, a Nigerian man and a woman believed to be the intended recipients, are currently cooperating with the investigation.

According to the FDA, the seizure violates Section 122 of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), which prohibits the importation of medicines, herbal products, medical devices, cosmetics, or chemical substances without the requisite authorization.

Mr. Akurugu emphasized that medicines are prohibited from entering Ghana through inland borders, noting that Kotoka International Airport and Tema Harbour are the only legally sanctioned entry points. He cautioned that offenders would face severe penalties, including prison terms of up to 25 years.

He assured the public that the suspects would be prosecuted and commended the collaborative efforts of the Customs Excise and Preventive Service (CEPS), the National Investigations Bureau (NIB), the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), and National Security for their role in the successful operation.

“This interception is a clear signal that we are committed to protecting public health and ensuring the safety of Ghanaians,” Mr. Akurugu said.

Source: GNA