Accra – The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has announced the launch of a full‑scale internal investigation into allegations of extortion against officers of the Customs Division Task Force operating in the Ashanti Region. The claims were brought forward by the Traders Advocacy Group Ghana (TAGG), a body that represents the interests of traders across the country.
According to TAGG, some officers allegedly intercepted containers en route to Kumasi, claimed undervaluation of goods, and demanded additional payments which the importers described as unjustified and coercive.
The group highlighted that such practices not only harm the business climate but also erode public trust in GRA’s ability to enforce tax laws fairly.
In response, GRA in a press statement issued on Thursday, 17th November, 2025 affirmed that it treats the allegations with the utmost seriousness. “GRA wishes to inform its stakeholders, especially traders and importers, that it takes these allegations seriously and has commenced an internal investigation into the matter to ascertain the facts,” the statement read.
It added that the investigation will be *comprehensive*, and the general public will be briefed on the outcome as soon as it is concluded.
The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability among its staff. “GRA remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity of its staff and transparency in our operations to ensure accountability and fairness,” the statement emphasized.
GRA also urged all stakeholders, including traders, importers, and the general public, to support the probe by reporting any suspected malpractices through its established channels such as the GRA Whistle-blower Hotline, online portal, and regional offices.
The Ashanti Region, being a major commercial hub with the Port of Tema and Kotoku International Airport feeding into its markets, has in recent years witnessed increased customs activity. While GRA has intensified efforts to curb revenue leakages, incidents of alleged misconduct threaten to undermine these reforms and harm Ghana’s ease‑of‑doing‑business rankings.
The outcome of the investigation is expected to shape GRA’s future policies on customs enforcement and internal conduct, with possible disciplinary actions against any officers found guilty of wrongdoing.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
