Ghana Customs Commissioner Leads Team to Oti Region to Curb Smuggling

Ghana Revenue Authority's Customs Division Commissioner, Aaron Kannor, is on a working tour of the Oti Region. This visit aims to motivate officers and familiarize him with operational challenges at frontline duty posts. Kannor, recently confirmed as substantive Commissioner, is assessing realities at remote stations. He stated that the visit is not ceremonial, but to encourage officers and understand their difficulties firsthand.

Commissioner Kannor is accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Operations, Theresah Potaki, and Deputy Commissioner Birago Owusu-Ansah. The team visited established and remote stations, including Menusi, Tindjase, Poase Cement, and Ahamanso Check Points. In Dambai, they met with Regional Minister Kwadwo Gyapong and security agencies. This tour demonstrates Kannor's commitment to understanding and addressing officer concerns.

A significant aspect of the tour was a cross-border engagement with Togo. Kannor and his counterparts discussed strengthening cooperation on border security, revenue mobilization, and combating trans-border crimes. The meeting focused on collaboration among security services, support for Customs operations, and measures to improve trade facilitation while curbing smuggling. This engagement highlights Ghana and Togo's shared commitment to regional security.

During interactions with officers, Commissioner Kannor emphasized the importance of professionalism, discipline, and commitment to national revenue targets. He assured them that their welfare and working conditions are a priority for his administration. This visit has boosted officer morale and demonstrated the Commissioner's dedication to their well-being.

The tour also provided an opportunity for Kannor to assess operational difficulties at remote duty posts. By witnessing firsthand the challenges faced by officers, he can develop targeted strategies to address these issues. This approach will enhance the effectiveness of Customs operations in the Oti Region.

Commissioner Kannor's visit has sent a strong message to smugglers and those involved in trans-border crimes. The Ghanaian Chronicle reports that his administration is committed to curbing smuggling and ensuring that officers have the necessary support to perform their duties effectively. The days of smugglers are indeed numbered.

The success of this tour will be measured by the impact on smuggling activities and the improvement in officer morale. As Commissioner Kannor continues to implement his strategies, the Oti Region will likely experience enhanced border security and revenue mobilization. The collaboration with Togo sets a positive precedent for future cross-border engagements.

Key points

• Commissioner Kannor's tour aims to motivate officers and combat smuggling in the Oti Region.
• The visit included a cross-border engagement with Togo to strengthen cooperation on border security and revenue mobilization.
• Kannor emphasized the importance of professionalism, discipline, and commitment to national revenue targets among officers.