Police bust cocoa smuggling ring, arrest 4 with 118 bags bound for Togo

The North East Regional Police Command in Ghana has apprehended four individuals suspected of smuggling 118 bags of cocoa beans weighing a total of 11,800 kilograms. The suspects, whose ages range from 19 to 35, were identified as Dickson Asante, Gideon Tab, Mohammed Mumin, and Ernestina Akugre. Authorities believe the contraband cocoa was destined for Togo through the Bunkpurugu-Togo border.

The arrest took place on August 9th, 2026, after police received intelligence about a suspicious Hyundai Rhino truck, registered AS-3272-25, carrying plantain and cocoa on its way to the Togo border. A police patrol team intercepted the vehicle at the Bunkpurugu Police Snap Check Point. Upon closer inspection, the Ghana Police Service, Ghana Immigration Service, Defence Intelligence, GRA Customs Division, and National Security collaborated to search the truck. The investigation revealed that the plantain was serving as a decoy to conceal the cocoa beans.

The four suspects are currently in police custody and are assisting with the ongoing investigation. They are expected to face court proceedings to be held accountable for their alleged criminal activities.