Ghana: Two boats seized with 4.7 tons of suspected cannabis

The cargo was discovered on November 5th in the Ada estuary, after the people on board had fled.

Two abandoned wooden boats and a cargo of 117 bags: the Ghanaian navy announced a major seizure in the Ada estuary. The operation took place on Thursday, November 5, 2026.

The discovered substances, dried leaves packaged in numerous bundles, are suspected to be cannabis. Their total weight is estimated at approximately 4.7 tons. This classification remains that of the authorities at the time of the announcement.

The occupants abandon their cargo

According to the official report, the operation was launched based on intelligence. Upon seeing the soldiers pursuing them, the people on board abandoned the boats and fled.

The navy recovered the boats and their cargo. Its statement made no mention of any arrests during the interception.

Each bag contained more than 80 packages, according to the armed forces. Authorities estimate the resale value of the entire haul at over one million dollars. This is an estimate, not the actual amount of money recovered at the scene.

A shipment destined to leave the country?

Initial reports suggest the goods were to be transported out of Ghana. The official statement does not specify the destination country.

During a press briefing in Ada, Captain Festus Osei Brobbey, director of naval operations, recalled the role of river units in monitoring Lake Volta and neighbouring communities.

Local officials have also called on residents to report any suspicious activity. The exact nature of the substances and the identity of those who organized the shipment remain to be determined following the seizure.