Security agencies in the Bono East Region have intercepted a vehicle allegedly transporting sodium cyanide, a hazardous chemical often associated with illegal mining activities, along with a large quantity of unregistered cigarettes.
The intelligence-led operation was conducted at about 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 2, at the Tuobodom barrier in the Techiman District.
The operation was carried out jointly by personnel from the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), the Police Intelligence Department and the Bureau of National Investigation.
According to the Public Relations Officer of NACOC, ANCO Grace Bromah Okweesi, the agencies acted on intelligence that led to the interception of the vehicle, which was carrying registration number UE-819-26.
A search of the vehicle uncovered the suspected contraband concealed beneath sacks of sorghum and groundnut husks, apparently in an attempt to prevent the items from being detected.
The vehicle was reportedly travelling from Nalerigu in the North East Region towards the Bono East Region when it was stopped at the Tuobodom barrier.
Explaining the operation, ANCO Grace Bromah Okweesi stated, “An intelligence-led operation led us to a vehicle suspected to be carrying unregistered cigarettes and sodium cyanide. The vehicle was intercepted right before the Tuobodom tollbooth.”
She added, “The vehicle was suspected to be coming from North East Region to Bono East Region, investigations are still ongoing as I have said and the necessary information will be brought to the media.”
No arrests or suspects have so far been publicly identified in connection with the shipment. Investigations are continuing to establish the source, destination and individuals behind the transportation of the suspected illegal goods.
By: Prince Martey-Sogar