The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has refuted "mischievous and premature information" that seeks to imply that some pistols and ammunition are being kept for onward release to some 'big men.'

In a statement issued by the GRA and signed by its Director of Communications and Public Affairs, Florence Asante, the Commission said the outcome of the investigations commenced into the seizure will be made public once concluded.

"The clearing agent is currently assisting the Tema Harbour Police
Command with the investigation. Meanwhile, the Customs Division has
provided the Police with the necessary information," it added.

Giving more details about the seizure of the pistols and ammunitions at the Tema Port, GRA said a container which was said to contain personal effects, household goods, and a carding machine, was flagged as ‘Red Channel”, thereby necessitating the need for a physical examination to be conducted on it.

"After examination, 18 packages identified as restricted items were found in the container. These include 436 Pistols (Side Arms), 26 packs of 50 pieces of Ammunition, and 40ml piece of Pepper Spray.

"These items had been imported into the country without the necessary
permits from the Ministry of Interior. The items had also not been declared
to Customs on arrival," the statement from GRA said.

Subsequently, an inventory of the items was taken in the presence of officers of the Preventive Wing of the Customs Division, the Bureau of National Investigations, National Security, and the Police.

"All representatives, including the clearing agent signed against
the total number of arms and ammunitions seized. A seizure notice was issued to the clearing agent and the seized consignment was placed in the custody of the Customs Division," GRA explained.

The statement also cautioned the public against the importation of arms and ammunition without the necessary permit from the Ministry of Interior.

"We also assure the general public that the Customs Division will not relent on its regulatory duties at the nation’s ports and other points of entry to ensure the safety of all citizens," it concluded.