Officials of the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission have intercepted a large consignment of dried shark fins at the Swissport Cargo Centre at Kotoka International Airport (KIA), which has dealt a major blow to the illegal wildlife trade.

The operation led to the confiscation of 3,967 shark fins, weighing about 488 kilograms in total.

The fins were concealed in 14 jute sacks, commonly known as “Ghana Must Go” bags, and are estimated to be worth between $300,000 and $400,000 on the international market. Authorities say the shipment was destined for Mauritania.

The seizure was triggered by intelligence provided by the Veterinary Services Directorate at KIA. Although the consignment was declared as dried fish, a detailed inspection revealed that the contents were shark fins, raising immediate red flags.

Investigators established that the exporters failed to obtain the mandatory permits and accompanying documentation, in breach of Section 22(2)(a) of the Wildlife Resources Management Act, 2023 (Act 1115), which regulates the movement of wildlife and wildlife products across Ghana’s borders.

Further examination identified the fins as belonging to Blue sharks, Common threshers, Silky sharks and Hammerhead sharks.

All species are listed under Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which means their trade is strictly controlled to prevent overexploitation.

The Forestry Commission has since taken custody of the seized items.

At the same time, the main suspect connected to the consignment has been transferred to the Airport Police Station to assist with investigations and possible prosecution.