GRA says lawful procedures were executed in Lethem raid

In light of reports in the media and social media in connection with the recent raid at Lethem, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) on Saturday noted that lawful procedures were properly executed in the joint operation.

In a missive to the media, the revenue body noted that on Thursday last, a team of officers attached to the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) while performing duties at the Lethem Multi-Purpose Complex observed a Brazilian-registered cargo truck illegally exiting the location without the requisite examination being conducted by the proper officers.
“This action prompted suspicions about the contents therein, and as a consequence thereof, the team of officers followed the consignment to the premises where a joint search was conducted by CANU and officers of the Revenue Authority.”
The release added that the officers properly identified themselves, as is the standard operating procedure (SOP) and stated the purpose of the visit.
The officers, the GRA stated, were, however, met with acts of aggression, insults and hostility by persons within the said premises who denied the team of officers from gaining access to the premises, as is required by law.
However, after a brief stand-off, the team of officers finally gained entry to the premises where they were met with further acts including aggression and ferocious dogs.
“Despite several requests for the ferocious dogs to be secured, these were aggressively denied. The dogs were however secured based on more intense approach taken by the officers, and thereafter, the premises was searched in accordance with Section 209 of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01, which led to a large quantity of uncustomed items being found concealed. This allowed for the individual who subsequently claimed ownership being cautioned and arrested, and placed on station bail. The investigation continues.”
On this note, the GRA is reminding persons involved in smuggled and unlawful activities that the Authority will continue to maintain a “zero-tolerance approach” to such activities in accordance with the laws administered by the Authority.
Meanwhile, the Police have arrested the CANU rank after he was caught on camera assaulting the brother of one of the men who were busted with the illegal items. He remains in custody while the two men who were arrested during the operation were released on bail.
In addition, the weapon which the CANU rank used to discharge a round at the dogs was handed over for ballistic testing.
It was reported that 30 cases of Black Stone Whisky, four cases of Skarloff Beers and nine cases of Blend Seven Whiskey were seized.