Mahama ‘very upset’ over alleged transit diversion as gov't vows tough sanctions

Deputy Minister for Finance Thomas Nyarko Ampem has disclosed that John Dramani Mahama was “very upset” after being briefed on the interception of articulated trucks allegedly involved in a transit diversion and revenue evasion scheme at Ghana’s borders.

The disclosure follows a major enforcement operation by the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, which intercepted several trucks declared as transit cargo from Akanu in the Volta Region and reportedly destined for Niger through Kulungugu.

Preliminary findings from the operation revealed multiple alleged breaches of customs regulations, including the movement of transit goods without the mandatory customs human escort. The development has heightened concerns about possible internal collusion and deliberate attempts to circumvent state revenue systems.

Speaking on Citi FM’s Breakfast Show, Mr. Ampem said the President demanded an immediate briefing after officials returned from the border operation.

“When we returned from the border, the President was waiting for us for feedback. He was so upset, and there is no way anybody involved in this is going to be treated with kid gloves,” he stated.

The Deputy Minister emphasised that government is determined to deal decisively with anyone found culpable, stressing that customs officers occupy a critical position in safeguarding Ghana’s revenue and border security.

“We want to send a very strong signal that our customs officers have the responsibility to ensure revenue and protect our borders. They should not be complicit in this,” he said.

Mr. Ampem was, however, careful to note that the alleged wrongdoing does not reflect the conduct of all officers within the Customs Division. He acknowledged that some personnel played a key role in exposing the suspected scheme and supporting the interception exercise.

“There are good ones who assisted us in this exercise. We want to reward good behaviours of customs officers and punish bad behaviours,” he added.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing, with government sources indicating that disciplinary and legal actions will follow once responsibility is firmly established. The administration says the case will be used as a test of its resolve to clamp down on revenue leakages and restore integrity within border management systems.