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The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has uncovered a suspected cross-border transit fraud scheme involving forged trade documents, under-declared cargo, and possible identity fraud following an investigation into an intercepted consignment of cooking oil.
The discovery emerged after customs officials launched a detailed investigation into a shipment that had been declared as transit cargo destined for Niger.
Speaking at a media briefing on July 7, 2026, Commissioner-General Anthony Kwasi Sarpong revealed that preliminary findings indicate the shipment was never intended to reach its declared destination.
According to the GRA, an investigative committee examined reports submitted by arresting officers, statements from Customs personnel, truck drivers, escort officers, transit bond issuers, and E-Track officials. The investigation also involved collaboration with relevant authorities in Togo and Niger to verify the shipment’s movement and supporting documentation.
The investigation established that the cooking oil originated from Malaysia and Indonesia before being shipped through the Port of Lomé in Togo. However, contrary to the declarations made in Ghana, the cargo was consigned to two companies located in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, rather than to a consignee in Niger.
The Commissioner-General disclosed that the documentation presented during customs processing at the Akanu border post did not correspond with the original shipping records.
“The declaration processed at Akanu was not supported by the actual bill of lading or export documents,” Sarpong stated.
The GRA said the findings point to a coordinated attempt to manipulate transit documentation, raising concerns over potential customs fraud, revenue leakage, and broader risks to regional trade integrity.
The Authority noted that investigations remain ongoing as it works with regional counterparts to identify all parties involved and strengthen measures aimed at protecting the integrity of Ghana’s customs and transit systems.
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