Guyana Revenue Authority sends staff home after uncovering licensing racket

The Guyana Revenue Authority, (GRA) Monday confirmed it has dismissed an undisclosed number of employees and had also taken disciplinary action against others after uncovering a license sales racket.

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IN a statement, the GRA said it recently uncovered a number of fraudulent practices involving persons applying for various categories of licenses and collusion with some staff members.

GRA said stern actions will also be taken against members of the public who colluded with the officers to provide services outside of the normal procedures of the GRA.

“In an effort to prevent such practices, the authority is cautioning members of the general public against colluding with individuals including GRA officers, to perpetuate fraud in the course of conducting a transaction. Persons found guilty of such unlawful actions are liable on summary conviction to fines and imprisonment,” the GRA warned.

The GRA has over the years been dogged by accusations of fraud involving its staff members. Last year, several staff members who were involved in a fake cheque racket were dismissed and the GRA said it continues to make alternative payment options available for persons who cannot come to its office.

“The Authority also wishes to remind the public that GRA staff are not authorized to collect monies from taxpayers for any transaction or offer to complete transactions in exchange for gifts. Taxpayers must make all payments at the cashier sections where they will receive,” the GRA said, urging people to come forward with information if they have had to pay its staffers to conduct businesses.

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