GRA Launches Probe into Alleged Customs Extortion by Task Force in Ashanti Region

Stay informed on the Ghana Revenue Authority’s investigation into extortion claims against customs officials targeting importers in Kumasi. This guide breaks down the allegations, GRA’s response, and essential tips for compliant trade.

Introduction

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), the primary tax and customs agency in Ghana, has initiated a formal investigation into serious allegations of extortion by officials from its Customs Division Task Force in the Ashanti Region. Reported by the Traders Advocacy Group Ghana, the claims involve unjustified demands for payments from importers whose containers were intercepted en route to Kumasi. This development, published on November 29, 2025, by Life Pulse Daily, underscores ongoing efforts to uphold integrity in customs enforcement.

Keywords like “GRA probe customs extortion Ashanti Region” highlight public interest in transparent revenue collection. For importers and traders, understanding this case is crucial for navigating legitimate customs procedures while avoiding potential misconduct.

Background on GRA Customs Operations

The GRA’s Customs Division oversees import duties, valuations, and anti-smuggling activities. Task forces in regions like Ashanti, a key trading hub centered in Kumasi, conduct roadside checks to prevent undervaluation—a common issue where declared goods values fall below market rates, leading to underpaid duties.

Analysis

This GRA investigation into alleged customs extortion represents a proactive response to stakeholder complaints, emphasizing accountability in revenue mobilization. The Traders Advocacy Group Ghana accused task force officials of intercepting containers bound for Kumasi, claiming undervaluation, and demanding additional payments deemed unjustified by importers.

Understanding Undervaluation in Customs

Under Ghana’s Customs Act, 2015 (Act 891), goods must be declared at fair market value. Undervaluation erodes government revenue, estimated at billions of cedis annually. Legitimate checks involve physical inspections and reference to the WTO Valuation Agreement, which Ghana follows. However, allegations suggest officials bypassed due process, pressuring importers for cash settlements.

GRA’s Official Stance

In its statement, the GRA affirmed it treats such allegations seriously, launching an internal probe to verify facts. The authority committed to a thorough process, promising public disclosure of findings, and reiterated its dedication to integrity, transparency, and accountability.

Summary

In summary, the GRA probe addresses extortion claims against Customs Task Force members in Ashanti Region, stemming from importer complaints via Traders Advocacy Group Ghana. Officials allegedly demanded extra payments for “undervalued” goods during intercepts near Kumasi. The GRA vows a comprehensive investigation, public updates, and encourages reporting through official channels. This action reinforces trust in Ghana’s customs system amid rising trade volumes.

Key Points

Practical Advice

For importers facing customs checks in Ashanti Region or elsewhere, adhere to best practices to ensure compliance and deter misconduct.

Steps for Legitimate Customs Clearance

1. Accurate Declarations: Use transaction value method; provide invoices, bills of lading, and contracts verifiable against international standards.
2. Pre-Shipment Verification: Engage GRA-approved agents for valuation certificates.
3. Documentation Readiness: Carry copies of import permits, tax clearances, and insurance during transit to Kumasi.
4. Report Issues: Use GRA’s hotline (0800100100), email (info@gra.gov.gh), or the Traders Advocacy Group Ghana portal.

Responding to Inspections

Politely request inspection warrants, document interactions via photos/videos (with permission), and insist on official receipts for any duties. Escalate disputes to GRA’s Post Clearance Audit Unit.

Points of Caution

Importers must remain vigilant to protect against customs extortion risks in high-traffic areas like Ashanti Region routes.

• Avoid Informal Payments: Never pay cash without receipts; such demands signal potential corruption.
• Verify Officer Credentials: Check GRA IDs and badges during task force stops.
• Do Not Delay Reporting: Timely complaints via official channels strengthen probes like this GRA investigation.
• Watch for Red Flags: Pressure for quick settlements without full audits or threats of indefinite holds.

Broader Risks in Trade Hubs

Kumasi’s markets amplify scrutiny; undervaluation suspicions are valid but must follow protocol to avoid perceptions of abuse.

Comparison

This incident echoes prior GRA efforts against customs misconduct. For instance, in 2022, the GRA probed similar undervaluation scams at Takoradi Port, leading to officer dismissals and recoveries of GH¢5 million. Unlike port-based cases, this Ashanti probe targets mobile task forces, highlighting regional enforcement challenges.

Versus Standard Procedures

Legitimate checks involve GRA forms (e.g., Form MD1 for declarations) and appeals to the Commissioner-General. Alleged actions deviate, resembling isolated 2023 Tema complaints resolved via internal audits.

Legal Implications

Extortion by public officials is criminalized under Ghana’s Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), Section 149, punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment. Misuse of customs powers violates the Customs Act, 2015 (Act 891), risking fines, seizures, and prosecutions. The GRA’s probe could trigger Criminal Investigations Department involvement if substantiated, with affected importers eligible for refunds via administrative appeals.

Protections for Traders

The Trade Facilitation Agreement (ratified by Ghana) mandates transparent procedures; breaches enable WTO disputes or local High Court remedies.

Conclusion

The GRA probe into alleged customs extortion in Ashanti Region exemplifies commitment to ethical revenue collection, vital for Ghana’s economy reliant on imports fueling Kumasi’s commerce. By addressing Traders Advocacy Group Ghana’s concerns transparently, the GRA fosters trust. Importers should prioritize compliance, report anomalies, and await probe outcomes. This case serves as a pedagogical reminder: integrity safeguards trade efficiency.

Monitor GRA updates for resolutions, reinforcing “customs integrity Ghana” as a cornerstone of sustainable business.

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