GRA Customs seize 560 diesel engines suspected to be bound for Galamsey operations

Officers from the Preventive Unit of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Customs Division have intercepted 560 CHANG FANG diesel engines at the Golden Jubilee Terminal, in what authorities suspect was an attempt to supply equipment for illegal small-scale mining activities.

The engines were discovered during a routine inspection at Tema Port after customs officers flagged the container for further checks.

According to officials, the powerful industrial diesel engines—commonly used to power water pumps and dredging machines at illegal mining sites—had been concealed within a shipment believed to be intended for operations linked to Galamsey.

The Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority, Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, praised the customs officers for their professionalism and commitment to protecting the country’s natural resources.

“Some good behaviour like this from my officers is rewarding and must be recognised by Ghanaians. They chose national interest and preventive duty ahead of personal gains,” he said.

Mr. Sarpong disclosed that authorities have begun investigations to trace the individuals behind the shipment, including the importer and the clearing agents involved.

“We will investigate the importer and the agents involved. Ghana’s ports will not be used as a gateway for equipment that fuels environmental destruction,” he stated.

Officials say the seizure forms part of broader efforts to dismantle supply networks that support illegal mining activities, which continue to threaten the country’s rivers, forests and ecological balance.

Customs officers at Tema Port have since intensified cargo screening as government agencies strengthen measures to block equipment and logistics linked to illegal mining operations from entering the country.