Inquiry for officers, CCTV for port

The corruption at Tema port will be dealt with “firmly and uncompromisingly” said George Blankson, commissioner general of the Ghana Customs Authority (GRA).


A video by AA Anas of Ghana’s Crusading Guide newspaper showed customs officials in collusion with importers to devalue the declared worth of goods, instances of bribery and a rift between the GRA and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority over revenue collection.


Following this, the government has now announced plans to install CCTV's at key areas of the port to monitor daily activities, according to local news agencies.


So far the GRA has interdicted 11 of its officers captured on the tapes. However, Mr Blankson said he “also recognises to encourage and sustain the morale of the many customs officers who do their work professionally and have resisted the enticement of corruption”.


The GRA will also attempt to retrieve lost revenue: Mr Blankson added that notices demanding payment have been issued to “a number of importers” who have been confirmed as having evaded taxes and duties.
(Source:http://www.portstrategy.com)