The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has officially handed over 17 seized gold bars valued at $1.7 million to the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), reinforcing efforts to clamp down on illegal gold smuggling across Ghana’s borders.
The gold was intercepted by the Upper East Regional Command of NACOC at the Paga Border Post. Two Burkinabe nationals, who were attempting to smuggle the bars out of the country, were arrested and have since been charged with offences relating to the illegal transportation and dealing in gold.
Speaking at the event, Minister for the Interior, Alhaji Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, commended NACOC for its vigilance and pledged the Ministry’s continued support to GoldBod in safeguarding Ghana’s mineral resources.
He emphasized that government is committed to strengthening institutional cooperation to ensure that Ghana’s gold sector operates with transparency and accountability.
GoldBod’s Chief Executive Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, expressed his appreciation to NACOC’s Director-General and all officers involved in the operation. He noted that the successful seizure was a testament to the effectiveness of cross-agency collaboration in protecting the nation’s gold assets.
“This is a major win in the fight against illicit gold trade. We urge all stakeholders, security, regulatory, and border authorities to continue working together to ensure no ounce of gold leaves this country unaccounted for,” Mr. Gyamfi said.
He also highlighted the economic impact of gold smuggling, noting that unregulated exports deprive the country of crucial revenue needed for development.
The development underscores a growing national effort to secure Ghana’s gold value chain and close loopholes that enable smuggling and tax evasion.
