Illegal Importation Of Rice Threatening The Economy

The Revenue Protection Information Bureau (RPIB), a centre for information gathering on revenue leakages is calling for a national war on the illegal importation of rice by a syndicate, which is denying the state the needed revenue.

The illegal importation of rice smuggling has become a national problem which needs to be addressed, the RPIB said in a statement issued in Accra on Thursday.

The statement signed by Isaac Narh, a member of the Bureau on behalf of the Executive Director said investigations reveals that the illegal importation of the commodity from the neighbouring countries through the borders undermines the payment of duty and encourages money laundering.

It said the illegal activity is affecting genuine rice importation as well as the local rice industry.

The RPIB cautioned the importers involved in the criminal acts including truck drivers and their agents to desist from the criminal activity to avoid prosecution.

The statement said the Bureau is collaborating with the public, civil society groups and the security agencies to support the authorities to clamp down on the nefarious activities, which has become revenue and an economic threat.

“Anybody found in the act has him or herself to blame for we (RPIB) will make sure that such persons are dealt with according to the law.

“The RPIB is calling on the Government to institute tough measures against people in responsible positions who are aiding such acts instead of preventing them.