The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has launched an investigation into a Customs officer stationed at Kotoka International Airport following allegations of extortion. A TikToker, Lady Rev. Adwoa Pretty, posted a video claiming she was made to part with GH¢600 without a receipt. GRA has taken note of the allegations and commenced investigations, reaffirming its commitment to integrity, accountability, and professionalism among its staff.
The alleged incident occurred at Kotoka International Airport, Ghana's busiest point of entry and exit, handling thousands of travellers each week. Unreceipted cash demands by officials raise the cost and anxiety of travel for ordinary Ghanaians and visitors, undermining confidence in the agencies meant to safeguard the airport's integrity. The incident has sparked concerns about extortion at the airport, despite measures introduced to curb such conduct.
In August 2026, Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) suspended two Port Health officers and transferred a Ghana Immigration Service officer over similar extortion complaints. These incidents prompted a High-Level Stakeholder Facilitation Meeting, where airport agencies agreed on measures to curb extortion, including a "mystery shopping" initiative and a dedicated hotline for travellers to report extortion attempts.
The latest allegation suggests that despite the hotline and mystery-shopping measures introduced in August, concerns about extortion at the airport have not gone away. GRA has not disclosed the identity of the officer involved or offered further details on the circumstances surrounding the alleged payment. The Authority has promised to update the public once the investigation is completed.
The investigation is ongoing, with GRA yet to give a timeline for its conclusion. The Authority's statement did not indicate whether the case will be referred to any other body or handled solely through GRA's internal disciplinary process. The public is awaiting the outcome of the investigation, which will likely have implications for the airport's efforts to curb extortion.
Extortion at Kotoka International Airport has significant implications for travellers, who may face increased costs and anxiety due to unreceipted cash demands by officials. The incident highlights the need for sustained efforts to curb such conduct and ensure the integrity of airport agencies. The GRA's investigation is a step towards addressing these concerns.
The GRA's commitment to integrity, accountability, and professionalism among its staff is crucial in addressing concerns about extortion at the airport. The outcome of the investigation will be crucial in determining the next steps to take in addressing this issue. The public is expecting a thorough investigation and decisive action to prevent future incidents.
Key points
- GRA investigates alleged GH¢600 extortion by Customs Officer at Accra Airport
- Measures introduced to curb extortion at Kotoka International Airport
- Investigation outcome to determine next steps in addressing extortion concerns
