Customs Intercepts 97 Bales Of Imitation Wax Prints And 10 Yamaha Motorbikes Hidden Under Okro Powder

Story By: Zainab Ali

The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has intercepted 97 bales of imitation wax prints and 10 unpacked Yamaha Aerox motorbikes concealed in a Burkina Faso-registered cargo truck at the Techiman checkpoint.

The interception followed an inspection of a DAF XF cargo truck, with registration number BF2798G303, which was stopped by Customs officers on Thursday, November 5, 2026. During the search, officers discovered the textile products hidden beneath dry okro powder and empty glass bottles in an attempt to conceal the consignment.

The vehicle was subsequently escorted to the Sunyani Regional Office for a thorough examination. The inspection revealed 97 bales of imitation wax prints, representing approximately 58,200 yards of fabric, alongside 10 new, unpacked Yamaha Aerox motorbikes with 155cc engine capacity.
According to Customs, the goods were classified as uncustomed because the required import duties and clearance procedures had not been completed. The estimated duty on the textile consignment alone stands at GH¢465,186.90, based on a free-on-board value of US$52,962, in addition to freight, insurance, import duties, VAT and other applicable charges.

The seized items were covered by several notices of seizure issued on November 11 under provisions of the Customs Act, 2015 (Act 891), which classify the goods as liable to forfeiture.

The notices indicate that individuals wishing to challenge the forfeiture must submit written claims within one calendar month. Failure to do so could result in the goods being lawfully forfeited and disposed of as directed by the Commissioner.

The seized consignment has since been deposited at the Sunyani Regional Office state warehouse pending further action.

The development highlights ongoing efforts by Customs authorities to clamp down on smuggling, concealment of imported goods and the evasion of duties, which undermine government revenue and legitimate businesses.