A lack of “substantial evidence” is hindering investigations of corruption in the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA).
This is according to the GRA, which said on Thursday that although it is prepared to deal with allegations of corruption against its workers, “sufficient information and evidence” are needed to substantiate the relevant claims.
However, in a statement, GRA said some of the complaints lack clarity and the information reported is often distorted. “This has resulted in our investigations being hindered due to the lack of substantial evidence and difficulty in obtaining information from sources,” it explained.
According to GRA, allegations of corruption stem mostly from complaints received from the public relative to misconduct of the agency’s officers. It also said that since its inception, the GRA has been implementing measures geared at addressing allegations of corruption against its workers and it highly regards information received and acts upon complaints in a timely manner.
“…The GRA would like to advise the public that for in formation to be useful, persons must clearly identify the GRA staff allegedly involved in the acts of misconduct,” the agency said, while noting that persons making complaints should also provide detailed information about the allegation and, although it is not mandatory, contact information in the event that there is need for further clarification.
GRA, which said it appreciated the public’s efforts in assisting with the fight against corruption, added that all complaints pertaining to corruption should be directed to its intelligence hotline: 225-6687.
