Officers from the Preventive Unit of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) have intercepted and confiscated about 560 Chanfang diesel engines at the Golden Jubilee Terminal of the Tema Port.
Authorities suspect the engines were being imported for use in illegal small-scale mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey.
This marks the second interception of Chanfang machines at the port within two days. On March 3, officials from the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) discovered approximately 1,070 Chanfang machines hidden in separate containers at Tema Port.
According to officials of the GRA, the engines—industrial diesel machines often used to power water pumps and dredging equipment at illegal mining sites—were concealed in a container shipment believed to be heading to unlawful mining locations across the country.
The Commissioner-General of the GRA, Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, praised the officers involved for demonstrating integrity and dedication in safeguarding the country’s interests.
He noted that such conduct deserves recognition, emphasizing that the officers chose to prioritize their duty to the nation over any personal benefit.
Mr. Sarpong also disclosed that investigations have begun to trace the importer, the clearing agents involved, and the intended destination of the seized engines.
He stressed that Ghana’s ports would not be allowed to serve as entry points for equipment that contributes to environmental destruction.
Authorities added that the seizure forms part of broader efforts to break supply chains supporting illegal mining operations, which continue to endanger Ghana’s rivers, forests, and overall ecological balance.
Customs officials at Tema Port have since stepped up cargo inspections as government agencies intensify measures to dismantle logistics networks that facilitate galamsey through the country’s ports.
