Forestry Commission sues Cheddar over illegal tiger importation

The Forestry Commission of Ghana has filed a suit at the High Court against Nana Kwame Bediako, popularly known as Cheddar, over the alleged illegal importation of two tigers into the country.

According to the Commission, the businessman acquired the tigers in 2024 from a private breeder abroad and subsequently arranged for their shipment into Ghana. The animals were reportedly transported by air cargo and delivered into his custody without the prior approval and documentation required under Ghana’s wildlife regulations.

The Commission maintains that no valid import permits, wildlife ownership licences or clearance certificates were obtained before the animals entered the country. It argues that under Ghanaian law, the importation of endangered or exotic species requires advance authorisation from the appropriate state agencies.

In its suit, the Forestry Commission is seeking an order for the immediate seizure of the animals and their transfer into state custody, insisting that compliance with established procedures is mandatory regardless of the owner’s status. The case is now before the High Court for determination.