Customs steps up surveillance to address missing-container concerns at Tema Port

The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has announced measures to strengthen security and surveillance at Ghana’s ports as part of efforts to address concerns over missing containers and prevent illicit activities within the country’s maritime trade sector.

The measures include tighter monitoring of container movements and enhanced surveillance at key operational points, with the Tema Port receiving particular attention.

The development comes amid heightened scrutiny of operations at the Tema Port following the arrest of customs officers in connection with a cocaine interception and concerns raised over alleged missing container consignments and bribery.

The GRA leadership, together with Customs Commissioner Aaron Kanor, subsequently visited the Tema Port to engage customs officers, port operators and other stakeholders as part of efforts to strengthen confidence and reinforce the authority’s commitment to secure and transparent port operations.

Customs tightens security measures

Addressing customs officers and other port stakeholders during the visit, Commissioner Kanor emphasised the need for stronger controls to ensure that containers entering and leaving the country’s ports are properly accounted for.

He said the Customs Division was strengthening its monitoring systems and operational controls to minimise security breaches and protect government revenue.

The measures are also intended to improve the tracking of cargo movements and reduce opportunities for unauthorised diversion or interference with consignments.

Commissioner Kanor stressed that operational efficiency must go hand in hand with strict adherence to security procedures, particularly as customs authorities continue to confront increasingly sophisticated forms of transnational crime.

He said the authority would continue to take appropriate action against breaches of its procedures and any conduct that undermines the integrity of Ghana’s customs operations.

Scrutiny follows cocaine interception

The increased attention to security at the Tema Port follows the interception of cocaine and the subsequent arrest of customs officers reportedly linked to the incident.

The development has heightened concerns about security and accountability within the port environment, while allegations relating to missing container consignments and bribery have also generated concern among some stakeholders.

However, allegations against individuals or institutions have not, in themselves, established criminal liability, and any persons arrested in connection with the cases are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court.

The Customs Division has maintained that officers who act professionally and within the law will continue to receive its support, while personnel found to have breached established procedures will be subject to the appropriate sanctions.

GRA engages port stakeholders

During the visit, the GRA delegation engaged operational personnel and other stakeholders on measures aimed at strengthening controls across the port.

The delegation also inspected areas involved in container processing and physical examination as part of efforts to assess existing security arrangements and identify areas requiring further improvement.

The enhanced monitoring is expected to strengthen the ability of customs authorities to track containers and identify irregular movements within the port and related operational facilities.

The use of digital systems, surveillance infrastructure and existing customs controls is expected to play an important role in improving accountability throughout the cargo clearance process.

The Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS), which supports customs declaration and clearance processes, remains a key component of Ghana’s efforts to digitise customs operations.

Efforts to restore confidence

The GRA’s engagement with customs officers and port stakeholders is also expected to strengthen confidence in the security and integrity of operations at the Tema Port.

Freight forwarders, clearing agents and other maritime stakeholders depend on predictable and secure port operations to facilitate the movement of legitimate trade.

The latest measures are therefore intended not only to protect government revenue but also to ensure that legitimate cargo is handled in accordance with established procedures.

The Customs Division has reiterated its commitment to accountability and professional conduct while warning against activities that could compromise port security or facilitate the unauthorised movement of containers.

As investigations into the recent incidents continue, the effectiveness of the strengthened surveillance measures will be closely watched by stakeholders seeking greater transparency and accountability in Ghana’s maritime trade sector.