The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has intercepted an attempt to divert diesel products valued at about GH¢2.3 million, preventing what could have been a major loss to the state in tax revenue.
According to the Authority, the foiled diversion involved a network of individuals and oil marketing companies who allegedly planned to evade import duties and excise taxes on large quantities of diesel.
In a statement, the GRA said its enforcement team acted swiftly following intelligence reports that some fuel tankers had diverted from their approved delivery routes. The trucks, which were being monitored through the Authority’s electronic tracking system, were intercepted before the illegal transaction could be completed.
“This interception prevented an estimated GH¢2.3 million in potential revenue loss to the State,” the statement noted.
The Acting Commissioner-General of the GRA, Anthony Sarpong, commended the officers involved for their vigilance and reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to curbing tax evasion within the petroleum sector.
“We will continue to strengthen our monitoring systems and intensify surveillance to protect government revenue,” he emphasized.
The GRA further disclosed that investigations have begun to identify all individuals and companies linked to the diversion attempt. Those found culpable are expected to face prosecution in accordance with Ghana’s tax and petroleum laws.
The Authority also cautioned transporters and oil dealers against engaging in any form of diversion or under-declaration of petroleum products, warning that such actions would be met with severe sanctions.
Observers have applauded the GRA’s quick intervention, describing it as a boost to the fight against illicit fuel trade and revenue leakages in the sector.
