Influx of Illegal Cooking Oils Sparks Concern: National Security Task Force Issues Alert

Mr. Paul Amaning, the coordinator of the National Security Task Force, leading a joint operation with the Oil Palm Development Association of Ghana and the Tree Crop Development Authority, has raised alarm over the proliferation of illegal and unapproved cooking oils flooding Ghanaian markets.

During a raid on fake oil stores in Kasoa and parts of Accra, Mr. Amaning emphasized that only four brands of cooking oils are approved for consumption in Ghana: Kings Oil, Frytol, Hayat, and Golden Drop.

The collaborative task force's operation began early Tuesday within the Mallam-Gbewa municipal assembly as part of a nationwide initiative targeting smugglers of unapproved vegetable oil sellers.

Their efforts led to the closure of Perfect End Logistics, where thousands of gallons of vegetable oil labeled as "Virgin Chef" were seized. Despite claims of local production, investigations revealed the oil was illegally imported from Malaysia.

The operation extended to Kasoa New Market, resulting in the closure of various shops selling unauthorized brands such as Choice, Aicha, White Lilly, Ami, Kingsam, and Mr. Cursin from Golden Future Impex at Adabraka. Several sellers were apprehended for non-compliance.

Mr. Amaning expressed concern over the prevalence of smuggling, citing a threat to over 8,000 jobs in the industry. He stressed that only the approved brands are safe for consumption in Ghana.

However, during the operation, none of the approved brands were found in Kasoa, Mallam Market, and Adabraka in Accra, indicating a significant influx of smuggled oils in the market.

"I was so surprised not to see even one made-in-Ghana vegetable oil, which tells us that the market is flooded with smuggled oil," Mr. Amaning stated. He called for increased vigilance from security agencies and customs to curb the smuggling activities jeopardizing both the economy and public health.

Eight shops closed during the operation will be handed over to the Ghana Revenue Authority for legal action, emphasizing the need for consumers to avoid smuggled vegetable oils due to potential health risks.