Importers of poisonous rice in police grips

The Police in Akuse are holding five persons who allegedly imported unwholesome rice intended for the Ghanaian market.

The suspects are said to have sent the rice in paddy form to Akuse for processing.

Mr David Tetteh Asumeng, the Member of Parliament for Shai Osudoku wants the Agric Minister, Mr Kwesi Ahwoi to collaborate with the security agencies to thoroughly investigate the circumstance under which the rice was allowed into the country when it was clearly labelled 'poisonous.'

An obviously worried Asumeng – many of his constituents are rice farmers – is concerned that the security agencies could impound the poisonous product at the ports.

Joy FM's Benjamin Tetteh, reports that the over 3,000 bags of rice were conspicuously labeled 'poisonous and not fit for the consumption of even animals'.

The rice, believed to originate from India, was discharged from the Tema Harbour and carted to Akuse for processing.

However, rice farmers in Asutuari upon seeing the rice became suspicious and reported the matter to the police.

The woman who imported the rice, together with the owner of the mill that was supposed to process the rice is among the five currently in police custody.

Story by Malik Abass Daabu/Myjoyonline.com/Ghana