A coordinated intelligence‑led operation on the Kintampo‑Techiman highway uncovered a dangerous smuggling syndicate that hid 321 boxes of unregistered cigarettes and 100 containers of sodium cyanide beneath bags of millet, soya beans and groundnut husks in a Hyundai truck (registration UE 819‑26) at the Tanoboase toll booth.
How the Story Unfolded
The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), together with the Police Intelligence Department (PID), seized the vehicle after a routine inspection. Officers noted the cargo appeared to be a routine food consignment until a meticulous search revealed the illicit contents.
Items seized included:
- 321 boxes of unregistered cigarettes (brands such as ORIS, Royals, Gold Seal)
- 100 containers of sodium cyanide, a fast‑acting industrial poison
- 12 bags of soya beans
- 21 bags of millet
- 39 bags of groundnut husks
Health and Security Concerns
Regional Public Relations Officer of NACOC, Grace Broma Okweesi, warned that mixing toxic substances with consumable goods poses a severe risk of cross‑contamination. She stated,
"The worrying situation has to do with the way the unlicensed items were found shielded with food items. This definitely has an effect on the health of the people."
Next Steps
The driver and suspected accomplices are in police custody, while authorities investigate the origin of the cigarettes, the source of the cyanide and the intended final destination of the cargo. NACOC has urged citizens to report suspicious cargo movements and reiterated its commitment to dismantling smuggling networks that endanger public safety.
