Massive Tramadol Bust at Tema Port Linked to Hayaq Logistics

Authorities at Tema Port have intercepted a substantial quantity of high-potency Tramadol tablets and capsules hidden within a shipment associated with Hayaq Logistics.

The operation, jointly conducted by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Customs Division, uncovered two separate consignments of KIMAKING-branded Tramadol—a strong opioid often linked to abuse and illegal distribution.

In total, over 500,000 units of the controlled drug were discovered. Officials revealed that the shipment had been deliberately misdeclared in an effort to bypass inspection protocols, violating several sections of the Revenue Administration Act and the Customs Act.

“This seizure demonstrates the evolving tactics of smugglers and underscores the need for tighter control at our ports,” a GRA official noted. “We are intensifying efforts to detect and dismantle these operations that endanger public health and support criminal enterprises.”

Tramadol is strictly regulated in Ghana due to its high risk of misuse and addiction. Importing it legally requires explicit authorization from the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), which the intercepted shipment lacked.

Authorities have detained the cargo as investigations continue. Legal proceedings are expected to follow against those responsible for the illicit importation.

In response to the incident, the GRA and Customs Division reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing surveillance, intelligence-sharing, and cooperation among regulatory bodies to stem the tide of unauthorized pharmaceutical imports and safeguard public health.