GRA intercepts vessel with large quantity of alcohol, chicken at Annandale

Four persons are in custody following the interception of a wooden vessel laden with a quantity of spirituous liquor, Heineken Beers and Rockingham Chicken at Annandale, East Coast Demerara (ECD).
The operation was executed by Customs Law Enforcement Officers of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) on Wednesday.

In addition, two minibuses were seized. The four persons are currently in custody assisting with investigations.
In a release on its website, the GRA stated that it continues to carry out operations in its continuous efforts to curb smuggling and other such illegal activities, thereby allowing for a level playing field for legitimate businesses and the collection of associated revenue.
“The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) wishes to remind the public that smuggling is illegal and anyone who attempts to import or export goods with intent to defraud the Revenue Authority of any duties is guilty of an offense and is liable for such offense to fines and or imprisonment in accordance with Section 218 of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01,” the release added.
However, the revenue authority urged the public to report any illicit, unlawful or smuggling activities on telephone number 227-6060, Extensions 3201, 3204, 3205, 3206, 3211, 3212, or 3408.
“All information provided will be dealt with strict confidentiality and such persons may be rewarded.”
Back in August 2022, GRA intercepted and seized three motor vehicles that were each carrying a large quantity of uncustomed chicken at Cane Grove, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara. Four persons were arrested and charged.
Earlier in that month, a motor vessel laden with a large quantity of foreign liquor and other uncustomed items was intercepted and seized at the Abary foreshore in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice). That vessel was being operated by three men, who were arrested even as they attempted to evade the law enforcement authorities.
Apart from that incident, another motor vessel and a minibus, both laden with large quantities of foreign alcoholic beverages, cigarettes and other uncustomed items, were intercepted and confiscated at the koker at Number 43 Village, Corentyne, East Berbice. Five persons were arrested in that operation, and they were later charged.