The Ghana Revenue Authority Customs Division of the Koforidua Command has intercepted 40 uncustomed vehicles for flouting various sub-sections of the Customs Act 891 after its enforcement exercise in the Koforidua zone.
In 2023, a total of 110 uncustomed vehicles were intercepted. Two months into 2024, 40 uncustomed vehicles have been intercepted, totaling 150.
The Sector Commander of Koforidua Collection, Customs Division, Mary-Anne Okunor, says the blatant disregard to the Customs Act 891 by vehicle owners was worrying.
Mary-Anne explained the violation of various sub-sections under the Customs Act 891 are in three folds; abuse of the ECOWAS Protocol on free movement of persons which allows residents of member states visiting or transacting business to bring duly registered vehicles for 90 days in the case of private vehicles and 15 days for commercial vehicles.
He explained vehicle owners failing to exit such vehicles after the required date, attracts seizure and prosecution.
Also, being abused is the transit regime where importers are diverting vehicles meant for neighbouring country Burkina Faso to Ghana and affixing Ghana number plates thereby smuggling it and avoiding payment of duties.
The misuse of the exemption policy which excuses the presidency, ministries, diplomats, disabled persons, free zones, and other government initiatives from paying taxes is also been abused.
Mary-Anne warned that persons found culpable will face the law.
By: Kofi Adjei | Metrotvonline.com | Ghana
