The authority said a preliminary investigation found that the GH¢807.68 duty assessed on Gifty Osei Bonsu’s goods was eventually paid into its revenue account, with the delay attributed to a temporary technical problem with the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS).
According to the GRA, Bonsu arrived on an Egypt Air flight on October 3 and was referred to the Red Channel for further examination of her luggage. Officers discovered new shoes, dresses, shirts and wigs, with duty of GH¢807.68 assessed on the 20 pairs of shoes.
The authority said Bonsu paid GH¢600 towards the bill, while a friend contributed GH¢200. After the system was restored, the full amount was paid into the GRA’s account at Ecobank Ghana at about 4:57 p.m. The customs officers reportedly covered the GH¢7.68 shortfall from their personal funds.
Although the GRA maintained that the transaction was conducted in good faith, it acknowledged the lengthy wait and apologised to Bonsu for the inconvenience.
The authority said it was reviewing customs procedures, improving alternative payment arrangements during system disruptions and intensifying public education on duty assessments, approved payment channels and official receipts. It urged travellers to request assessment notices, use approved payment channels and insist on receipts for all customs payments.
