Latest update February 5th, 2025 8:33 AM
GRA probes errant officers
– Corriverton Mayor condemns their use of excessive force
The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has launched an investigation into the allegations against several
The Mayor of Corriverton, Ganesh Gangadin.
officers attached to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) by members of the Upper Corentyne business community.
The Agency has assured that when the investigation is concluded, the findings will be made available to the public.
According to reports from Berbice, several GRA Officers recently carried out raids in the area. Some businesses were told that they needed to have their relevant licences renewed.
However, some business owners are convinced that they are being intentionally targeted while pointing out that no explanation is being given by the officers who cart off large quantities of goods.
Yesterday, the Mayor of Corriverton, Ganesh Gangadin, said that there have been some complaints being made by the business community accusing GRA of the use of excessive force.
He added that while smuggling should not be condoned, the GRA should act in a professional manner. Gangadin made reference to an incident where officers had allegedly barged into the home of a Line Path, Skeldon woman – a US resident –in search of her nephew who apparently has outstanding fines for the Agency.
After efforts to locate the man were futile, Gangadin stated that officers allegedly took away the woman’s passport and demanded that she accompany them to the GRA Office in Springlands. The woman was subsequently detained.
The Deputy Mayor and President of the Upper Berbice Chamber of Commerce, Krishnand Jaichand.
“I am condemning, totally, any use of excessive force by GRA and I am also saying that we do not support smuggling. There are legitimate ways of doing business. We want to encourage people to do so but at the same time if GRA is pursuing any fines that are owed to the agency, it should be more tactful in their intervention.”
Meanwhile, the President of the Upper Berbice Chamber of Commerce and the Deputy Mayor, Krishnand Jaichand, stated that he is unaware of any matter regarding GRA officials and the business community in Upper Berbice. However, he revealed that a delegation of top GRA officials will be visiting the area next week and will be happy to engage the team.
He is calling on the business community not to act hastily. He urged that contact be made with the Chamber so that they can examine and determine the way forward.
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