THE LAW Enforcement and Investigation Division (LEID) of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has seized almost $20M in goods, and has detained a number of vehicles which were used to transport the seized items.According to the GRA in a press release, the agency has been relentless in its pursuit of smugglers; and acting on information received, and with the use of coordinated patrols, LEID has, for the month of January 2016, had reason to seize a large quantity of uncustomed goods.

The tax agency said the countrywide enforcement campaign has netted a quantity of frequently smuggled items, with the most notable items being foreign chicken and mosquito coils which have not been approved for use in Guyana.

“For a number of these offences, the offenders have been identified for the first time. However, in some cases, it has been noted that the perpetrators are repeat offenders; in which case, the penalties levied as payment is triple the value of the duties,” GRA stated “ It is important to note that the cross-border trade has reduced due to the establishment of in-transit bonds in Suriname. This has resulted in the need for importers to containerize cargo, which gives more control as it relates to the importation of goods.”

The GRA noted that the Law Enforcement and Investigation Division will continue to work with the Task Force on Fuel Smuggling and Contraband in ensuring that the issue of smuggling is effectively addressed.

Moreover, the GRA will continue to put systems in place to ensure its enforcement activities are enhanced. The effectiveness of this, however, is dependent on cooperation from the public as it relates to sharing information on incidents of corruption and illegal activities that are geared at depriving the State of revenue, or results in unfair competition with the local manufacturing sector and legitimate importers.

As such, persons with information can utilize various methods of providing information to the GRA.