Security Agencies iron out differences over smuggled cocoa in Bawku
Bawku, Ghana - October 10, 2024 - A potential crisis was averted yesterday October 9, 2024 at the Missiga security checkpoint in Bawku, Upper East Region, after a misunderstanding involving the Ghana Armed Forces, Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, and the Ghana Police Service.
The issue centered around a truck carrying smuggled cocoa bags intercepted at the checkpoint, with each agency having differing interpretations of their roles and actions.
The Ghana Police Service clarified that they had intercepted the smuggled consignment based on intelligence and were escorting the truck to the Bawku Divisional Police Command. The plan was to hand over the smuggled cocoa to the Ghana COCOBOD for investigation and prosecution, as per established procedures.
This incident follows two recent successful interceptions of smuggled cocoa beans by the police in the region, where the cocoa consignments were handed over to COCOBOD, and the suspects were prosecuted. The police rejected claims suggesting they were involved in aiding smuggling operations at the checkpoint, reaffirming their commitment to law enforcement.
To resolve the tension, the leadership of the Ghana Armed Forces, Customs Division, and Police Service intervened swiftly. They addressed the misunderstanding at the national level, ensuring cooperation between agencies would be restored and differences resolved amicably. This intervention maintained harmony and operational efficiency among state security institutions.
At the regional level, the Regional Security Council (REGSEC), chaired by the Upper East Regional Minister, engaged in discussions with personnel involved. These efforts promoted dialogue and collaboration to prevent future misunderstandings and ensure coordinated operations.
Source: Lead News Online
