Ghana Police arrest two after seizing cigarettes and suspected cyanide

The Bono East Regional Police Command has arrested two individuals following the interception of a vehicle allegedly carrying contraband, including foreign cigarettes and 100 containers of a substance suspected to be sodium cyanide.

The interception occurred at Jema on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, during an intelligence-led operation. The driver, identified as Fusini Danaa, was traveling from Nalerigu toward Kumasi in a Kia Rhino when the vehicle was stopped. A search of the vehicle, which was also carrying maize, soya beans, groundnut husks, and millet, uncovered 321 boxes of foreign cigarette brands, specifically Royals, Oris, and Gold Seal.

Police noted that the transportation of the suspected cyanide alongside food products poses a significant public health risk. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) have collected samples of the suspected chemical for laboratory examination. The driver and his mate are currently in custody assisting with investigations to determine the source of the consignment and identify other connected individuals.