Tema: The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Tema Sector, has cautioned the public, especially importers, to desist from bringing unmanifested vehicles to the port. Assistant Commissioner Theresa Potakey, the Customs Tema Sector Commander, said the practice was unacceptable and, when found out, would be dealt with.
According to Ghana News Agency, Assistant Commissioner Potakey gave the caution during her outfit's first Joint Consultative Committee meeting held to deliberate on issues in the sector and to review port operations for the previous year. She noted that particularly at the Meridian Ports Services (MPS) Terminal Three, importers were bringing in unmanifested vehicles, as many of these vehicles were not found on the manifest or the bill of lading.
She explained that such vehicles are often hidden in a way that suggests the primary aim is to evade taxes, which is unacceptable. Customs has been seizing these vehicles, and she stressed the importance of the public refraining from this practice as the scanners are capable of detecting them.
When such vehicles are detected, importers are typically required to pay a penalty for restoration. Assistant Commissioner Potakey mentioned her intention to advocate for an increase in these penalties with the Customs Commissioner and the Commissioner General of the GRA to serve as a stronger deterrent.
She raised concerns about the legality of the vehicles, questioning why a vehicle would be brought in without being manifested on the bill of lading. She emphasized that a manifest is crucial for detailing all cargo on a vessel for a specific voyage, which customs use to verify cargo, assess duties and taxes, and ensure compliance with import and export regulations.
