CEPS warns personnel against alleged extortions

Accra, Sept. 4, GNA - Mr M.E.R.K Lanyon, Acting Commissioner of the Customs Excise and Preventive Service (CEPS), has warned personnel at the Foreign Exchange Control Seat at the Airport, against reported cases of extortions.

A statement issued and signed by Mr Kwamena Ewusi-Brown, Chief Collector in charge of Public Relations said Mr Lanyon "warned that the practice should cease forthwith because any personnel caught in the act would be sanctioned appropriately." "The situation is worrying and has the potential to drive investors away as well as create negative perception about the Service," Mr Lanyon said during his maiden visit to the Airport Collection in Accra. He pointed out that the performance of the Service would be judged by the annual revenue collected, adding "we have no option but to perform".

Mr Lanyon appealed to personnel to endeavour to achieve set targets to facilitate national growth, live above reproach and be disciplined in their work.

"Be diligent, punctual at work and meticulous in the examination, description and classification of goods as enshrined in the Customs Code of Instruction and other regulations," he said. He advised personnel to broaden their knowledge and skills on the job, since professional service delivery created a favourable public image for the Service.

Mr Lanyon said management was aware of the numerous challenges confronting the personnel and gave the assurance that stringent measures were being instituted to address the problems. Mr. J.K. Oklu, Sector Commander noted that the Airport Collection of CEPS had exceeded its target for the first half of the year by 2.75 per cent through prudent revenue mobilization measures and dedicated service by the personnel.

He was optimistic that the revenue target would be exceeded by the end of the year, despite the global recession and gave assurance of the full support and cooperation of the personnel. The personnel expressed concerns about lack of resources and logistics, delayed promotions and the need to establish a Customs Club House. 4 Sept. 09