The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has commenced an investigation into an alleged extortion incident involving a Customs officer stationed at the Accra International Airport.
The investigation follows a video circulated on social media by TikTok content creator Lady Rev. Adwoa Pretty, who alleged that a Customs officer collected GH¢600 from her without issuing an official receipt. Editorial Ethics & Independence
The allegation has attracted public attention and prompted the revenue authority to formally respond to the matter. In a statement, the GRA confirmed that it had taken note of the video and the claims made by the content creator.
According to the Authority, the investigation is intended to establish the facts surrounding the alleged payment before any conclusions are reached.
“The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has taken note of a video circulating on social media by a TikToker called Lady Rev. Adwoa Pretty. In the video, she alleges that a Customs Officer stationed at the Accra International Airport collected GH¢600 from her without issuing a receipt,” the Authority said.
The GRA assured the public that it would communicate the findings of the investigation once the process is completed. It has, however, not disclosed the identity of the Customs officer allegedly involved or provided further details about the circumstances surrounding the payment.
The Authority also reiterated its commitment to maintaining integrity, accountability and professionalism in the operations of the Customs Division.
The development has renewed attention on the conduct of revenue officials at Ghana’s entry points, where Customs officers play an important role in revenue mobilisation, trade facilitation and border security.
The Customs Division is responsible for collecting revenue from imports and exports, facilitating legitimate trade and contributing to public security and safety at Ghana’s ports of entry and exit.
GRA’s own guidance to passengers also makes clear that travellers and other stakeholders should demand receipts for payments made to Customs.
The Authority further advises passengers to report officers who make undue demands for cash or other material benefits and to report any acts of indiscipline to a supervisor.
These procedures are intended to provide accountability in transactions between Customs officials and travellers, particularly where payments are required in connection with imported goods or baggage. Corrections Policy
The current allegation, however, remains an allegation and has not been established as fact.
The GRA’s decision to investigate means the circumstances surrounding the reported GH¢600 payment are still being examined.
No disciplinary action, arrest or criminal charge against the officer has been announced in connection with the latest incident.
The distinction is important because an allegation made on social media does not, by itself, establish wrongdoing.
The investigation will be expected to determine whether the payment occurred as alleged, whether it was connected to an official Customs obligation and whether the officer involved followed the Authority’s established procedures.
The case also highlights the importance of official documentation in revenue transactions. Receipts provide evidence that a payment has been made and help both taxpayers and institutions maintain transparent financial records.
For travellers, the GRA advises compliance with Customs requirements while also encouraging them to report concerns through official channels.
The Authority provides contact points for Customs-related assistance and complaints, including its toll-free number and other published telephone contacts.
The GRA’s response therefore places the focus on establishing the facts rather than drawing conclusions from the social media video.
Its assurance that the outcome will be communicated publicly could also help address concerns about transparency once the investigation is completed.
The incident comes against the wider background of efforts by revenue authorities to strengthen professionalism and accountability among officers responsible for collecting public revenue.
Any confirmed misconduct by an official can undermine public confidence in tax and Customs administration, while a transparent investigation can help protect both the institution and members of the public. Editorial Standards
For now, the GRA has asked the public to await the outcome of its investigation. The Authority says it remains committed to upholding integrity, accountability and professionalism in the discharge of its mandate.
The findings of the investigation will therefore be significant in determining what actually occurred at the Accra International Airport and whether any further administrative or legal action is warranted.