Two arrested in cocoa smuggling bust in Elmina

Police in the Central Region have arrested two men in connection with an attempted cocoa smuggling operation involving 250 bags of beans.

The arrests were made on Sunday, June 8, 2025, during a targeted intelligence-led operation in Elmina, following a tip-off received two weeks earlier. Authorities had been monitoring a suspected smuggling syndicate believed to be trafficking both cocoa beans and illicit drugs to neighbouring countries.

According to a statement from the police, the operation culminated in the interception of a Hyundai Mighty truck with registration number CR 726-25. The vehicle, loaded with 250 bags of cocoa beans, was being driven by one of the suspects, Andy Kwofie.

Upon questioning, Kwofie disclosed that the shipment was meant for Francis Armah, who was allegedly responsible for exporting the cocoa by sea. Armah was arrested later that evening, and the truck was impounded and taken to the Regional Police Headquarters in Cape Coast.

Both suspects are currently in police custody and assisting with ongoing investigations.

The Central Regional Police Command has reaffirmed its commitment to clamping down on smuggling networks and protecting the country’s critical agricultural resources.