Tema Port GRA Customs Officers Urged To Tighten Port Securoty And Boost Rrvenue Collection.

The Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority, Anthony Sarpong, has urged Customs officers to intensify efforts to protect Ghana’s ports and borders while strengthening revenue collection.

He made the call during a working visit to the Customs Long Room in Tema, where GRA leadership engaged officers on revenue targets, discipline and port security.

The visit, led by Commissioner-General Anthony Sarpong and Commissioner of Customs Aaron Kanor, was aimed at commending officers for their work, boosting morale and encouraging them to remain focused on achieving the Authority’s revenue targets.

Mr. Sarpong also reminded Customs officers of their critical responsibility to prevent the trafficking of narcotics and other prohibited goods through Ghana’s ports and borders.

He expressed concern over recent reports of quantities of cocaine passing through the country’s ports, warning that such incidents could damage Ghana’s reputation as well as the image of the GRA and its Customs Division.

The Commissioner-General urged officers to uphold the dignity of the Customs uniform by remaining vigilant, disciplined and committed to their duties.

He stressed that illicit drugs pose a serious threat to national development, particularly the welfare and future of young people.

As part of the visit, the GRA leadership inspected the export scanning facility in Tema to obtain first-hand information on its operations and the challenges confronting officers.

Anthony Sarpong assured the officers that management was working to provide the necessary investment to improve operational facilities, equipment and other tools needed for effective service delivery.

According to him, the GRA is implementing a broader programme to improve Ghana’s cargo inspection architecture.

The programme will cover scanning facilities, weighbridges and command centres, while introducing greater automation into the examination of goods.

Mr. Sarpong reaffirmed the GRA’s commitment to mobilising revenue, facilitating legitimate trade and safeguarding Ghana’s economic and social interests.

He said the Authority would continue to support the government’s national development efforts under the Reset Agenda of President John Dramani Mahama.

REPORTER: AHIABOR AUGUSTINE.