Hon George Kwame Aboage Mp Asene Akroso Manso: We should launch a comprehensive investigation into the disappearance of the ECG containers

The member of Parliament for Asene Manso Akroso Hon George Kwame Aboagye has suggested on the floor of Parliament on Friday 28th March, 2025 that The issue of missing ECG containers at the ports is a serious one that requires both immediate actions and long-term structural changes to prevent future occurrences.

Mr. Speaker. Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) is charged with managing, maintaining, operating, and controlling all ports in Ghana, including providing efficient port facilities and services, handling large portions of external trade and serving as a regional transit hub.

“The process of Clearing Goods from Ghana’s ports is a multi-step procedure that involves proper documentation, payment of duties and fees, customs inspections, and finally, the physical release of the goods. While the process is designed to ensure that all goods entering the country comply with the necessary regulations, it can be complex and time-consuming. The key agencies responsible for clearing of goods from the ports include Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA): Responsible for customs clearance, assessment of duties and taxes, and ensuring compliance with Ghana’s import laws, Ports Authority: Oversees the operations at the ports, including managing the handling of goods, port charges, and facilitating the physical release of goods, Shipping Lines/Freight Forwarders: Shipping companies and freight forwarders are responsible for transporting goods and issuing Delivery Orders, National Security and Customs Officers: Ensure the security of the ports and inspect shipments for compliance with regulations.

An investigative report chaired by Prof Innocent Senyo Acquah discloses that One Thousand Three Hundred and Twenty-Eight (1,328) containers out of Two Thousand Four Hundred and Ninety-One uncleared containers belonging to the Electricity Company of Ghana at the Ghana ports and harbor cannot be accounted for.

This is a major regulatory and security concern, and an indication that all the security department and government agencies charged with efficient running and accountability at the port are not working effectively.

Resolving the issue of missing ECG (Electricity Company of Ghana) containers at the ports requires a combination of immediate corrective actions and long-term strategies to ensure accountability, security, and effective management.

Strict Penalties for Theft or Tampering: The introduction of stricter penalties for businesses or individuals caught tampering with, stealing, or mishandling of containers in any way. This would act as a deterrent and encourage responsible behavior.

Conduct Thorough Investigations: launch a comprehensive investigation into the disappearance of the ECG containers. This should involve port authorities, ECG officials, and law enforcement agencies to track down the missing containers and determine whether they were stolen, tampered with, or misplaced.

Hold Responsible Parties Accountable: If the investigation uncovers negligence, fraud, or criminal activity, responsible parties whether individuals within ECG, port officials, or businesses—should be held accountable.

Strengthen Coordination with Police: The port and harbor should collaborate closely with law enforcement to address the criminal aspect of the missing containers. He stated.