Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) seizes uncustomed alcohol and chicken parts in East Coast Demerara

The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) organized an operation at East Coast Demerara yesterday, which led to the seizure of uncustomed alcohol and foreign chicken parts in massive quantities. According to reports released by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), officers stopped a large wooden boat and minibuses which were laden with contraband in Annandale.

The authorities seized the boat, the minibuses, as well as the contraband in a large-scale operation. They have also arrested four individuals who are said to be assisting them with the investigation at this point.

The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has warned people against smuggling contraband into the nation, considering the detrimental effect such activities have on local businesses and the revenue that is lost by the government in the process.

The authority issued a statement on the matter, “GRA wishes to remind the public that smuggling is illegal and anyone who attempts to import or export goods with intent to defraud the Revenue Authority of any duties is guilty of an offense and is liable for such offense to fines and or imprisonment in accordance with Section 218 of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01.”

The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has asked citizens to support their efforts against smuggling by contacting the authorities or the police if they have any information which might help them in their investigations or operations.

The Government of Guyana and multiple relevant agencies in the nation have been focusing on smuggling and making a concerted effort to counter the issue. Attempts have also been made to spread awareness amongst people to get them to step away from such practices as they harm both local communities and the economy of the nation as a whole.

Despite these efforts, as is the case in other parts of the Caribbean and Latin American region, Guyana has had to deal with its fair share of smugglers and traffickers, who have been known to carry various kinds of contraband through its waters and land routes.