The Forestry Commission has seized 3,967 dried shark fins, weighing 488 kilograms, at the Swissport Cargo Centre at the Kotoka International Airport, in a major interception of illegal wildlife trade.
The consignment, packed in 14 wrapped jute bags, commonly known as “Ghana Must Go”, was intercepted by officers of the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission stationed at KIA. The fins are estimated to have a street value of between US$300,000 and US$400,000, with Mauritania believed to be the final destination.
The operation followed a tip-off from the Veterinary Services Directorate at KIA, after the shipment was initially declared as dried fish. However, further inspection revealed the contents to be dried shark fins, contrary to the declaration provided.
Investigations showed that the consignment lacked the mandatory export permit and accompanying documentation required for the exportation of wildlife products, in violation of the Wildlife Resources Management Act, 2023 (Act 1115). Section 22(2)(a) of the Act stipulates that a permit is required to export, re-export, or import wildlife and wildlife products.
Preliminary identification indicates that the fins were harvested from the following shark species:
- Prionace glauca (Blue Shark)
- Alopias vulpinus (Common Thresher Shark)
- Carcharhinus falciformis (Silky Shark)
- Sphyrna mokarran (Great Hammerhead Shark)
All the listed species, including their parts and derivatives, are protected under Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), requiring an export permit to ensure that trade is legal, regulated, and sustainable.
The seized shark fins are currently being held by the Forestry Commission, while the primary suspect has been handed over to the Airport Police Station for further investigations and possible prosecution.
The Forestry Commission has reiterated its commitment to enforcing Ghana’s wildlife protection laws and combating the illegal trade in endangered species.
By paqmediagh/Peter Quao Adattor
