The Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has refuted allegations made by the Member of Parliament for Assin South, Rev. Ntim Fordjour, linking drug activities and money laundering to two aircraft that landed in Ghana.
In a detailed explanation, Mr Kwakye Ofosu clarified that the two aircraft arrived in Ghana for legitimate purposes and underwent thorough security inspections, with no unlawful substances found on board.
First Aircraft: Antonov 12 VK
He explained that the first aircraft, an Antonov 12 VK with registration number CVK 7037, arrived in Ghana on March 12, 2025, after securing a landing permit (GAF/TMAO/25/7863). The cargo plane, originating from Rwanda and Angola, was carrying oil-drilling equipment and lubricants destined for the European Union market.
According to Mr Kwakye Ofosu, the aircraft required a technical stop in Ghana for RA3 scanning and screening, a certification necessary for entering the EU, which Rwanda lacks. The Swiss cargo facility at Kotoka International Airport is certified to perform this inspection.
However, while in Ghana, the plane developed an engine blade fault and suffered severe oil leakage, necessitating a replacement aircraft (URCEZ, registration number CDK 7007) to evacuate the cargo. The damaged aircraft remained at Kotoka International Airport for 13 days, from March 12 to March 25, 2025.
Throughout its stay, he noted that the aircraft was inspected by Aviation Security, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), National Security, and the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), adding that “no contraband or illegal substances were found.”
Second Aircraft: Hawker 800XP
The second aircraft, a Hawker 800XP with registration number N823AM, was operated by AirMed International, a U.S.-based air ambulance service. The aircraft, handled in Ghana by Tropicana Airlines, arrived from Gran Canaria, Spain, after passing through Rwanda and Angola.
Its purpose for landing in Ghana on March 20, 2025, was a technical stop for refueling and crew rest. However, upon landing, the aircraft suffered a tire burst and issues with its landing gear, requiring servicing before it could take off again, Mr Kwakye Ofosu indicated.
He continued, “On March 22, 2025, another aircraft (registration number N864) arrived with replacement tires and flight engineers from Rwanda. The necessary repairs were made, and the aircraft departed Ghana on March 25, 2025.
As with the first aircraft, the Hawker 800XP was subjected to security inspections by NACOC, National Security, Aviation Security, and the NIB, and no illegal substances were discovered.”
Kwakye Ofosu, therefore, criticised Mr Ntim Fordjour for spreading falsehoods, accusing him of attempting to undermine public confidence in the government.
“The facts are clear. Both aircraft had legitimate reasons for being in Ghana. They were thoroughly inspected, and no unlawful substances were found. Reverend Ntim Fordjour cannot prove his allegations, which is why he is now refusing to cooperate with investigative bodies,” he stated.
The government has urged the public to disregard the Assin South MP’s claims, emphasising that security agencies remain vigilant in ensuring the integrity of Ghana’s airspace and port-of-entry procedures.
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