GRA warns about impersonators

The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) said it has received reports of persons posing as staff of the body and the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA), demanding monies from taxpayers.

GRA said reports were received from taxpayers within Regions 3, 4, 5 and 6, that a group of persons are visiting the areas purporting to be conducting an official exercise on behalf of the bodies. The individuals it said, then proceed to count the heads of cattle and number of pets owned by farmers and pet lovers, before demanding $2,000 Value-Added-Tax (VAT) for each.

The body said it “has no such exercise in place” and anyone who encounters these individuals is advised to request proof of identification carried by all staff of the GRA.

Additionally, GRA pointed out that its officers are not authorised to collect monies from taxpayers since all payments of monies should be effected at GRA’s Regional offices or its Headquarters.

The Agency has also been taking measures through its Law Enforcement and Investigation Division (LEID) to address the issue.