…Sector Commander Joseph Allan Fingered In Alleged Corruption
The Sector Commander of The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA)-Custom Division at the Aflao collection point, Joseph Allan has landed himself again in another troubling allegations which revolves around what has been described by traders as “mugging” tactics used at the Aflao border.
Several traders have reported that customs procedures under Allan’s watch have become unnecessarily hostile, with some claiming they were pressured into paying additional fees or bribes in order to avoid unnecessary delays.
Some traders have described their encounters with customs officers as intimidating, stating that they were often threatened with the impounding of their goods if they did not comply with certain demands.
These alleged tactics have raised significant concerns about the overall environment at the Aflao border.
Allan’s critics argue that his management style has fostered a culture of fear and corruption, where traders are subjected to aggressive inspections and unfair treatment unless they are willing to “cooperate” with customs officers in a manner that involves paying bribes or engaging in under-the-table negotiations.
These policies, described as both “reckless and despicable” by those affected, have reportedly made the Aflao border a difficult environment for honest businesses.
The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is now facing increasing pressure to investigate these allegations, as both local traders and business associations have called for an overhaul of the customs processes in Aflao.
Some have even gone so far as to demand that the border be closed temporarily to allow for a full audit and investigation into the division’s operations.
Joseph Allan is also alleged to be involved in unauthorized security meetings.
Reports suggest Allan has been organizing private gatherings with opposition political figures and key stakeholders, raising concerns about his role within the customs division and its impact on national security.
These meetings, held without official sanction, have sparked questions about Allan’s true mandate and whether he is leveraging his position for personal or political gain.
Sources claim that Allan used his influence in these meetings to discuss matters unrelated to his customs duties, including strategies that potentially bypass formal government oversight.
Security experts warn that such activities, if not addressed, could undermine public trust in the customs division and expose vulnerabilities in border control operations.
Alleged Mismanagement of Trucks and Goods
Perhaps the most high-profile accusation against Joseph Allan is tied to his involvement in the handling of three trucks allegedly carrying goods through the Aflao border without proper examination.
According to reports, some trucks, believed to be loaded with goods, were cleared at the Aflao border after undergoing what some witnesses have described as selective inspections.
Allan is accused of orchestrating these inspections to favor certain importers, a practice that allegedly allowed the goods to pass through without the required customs duties being paid.
Further investigation revealed that the customs headquarters in Accra, the office of the Deputy Commissioner Preventive, Mr Peter Ofori had ordered the trucks to be re-examined after receiving intelligence about possible irregularities in the inspection process.
However, Allan reportedly intervened, ordering his patrol team to intercept the trucks before they could be re-inspected by officers at the Dabala customs post.
The trucks were then brought back to Aflao, raising further suspicions about Allan’s role in covering up the irregularities.
The goods, which were initially cleared, are now subject to renewed scrutiny, with investigators looking into whether Allan deliberately allowed them to pass through to protect certain business interests.
There are allegations that Allan collected a bribe of GHS 50,000 from the importers to ensure the trucks were not stopped.
These allegations have fueled public outrage, with many calling for the GRA to remove Allan from his position pending a full investigation.
A Long History of Questionable Behavior?
This latest scandal is not the first time Joseph Allan has faced accusations of misconduct.
Several sources within the customs division have suggested that Allan has been involved in similar activities for years, dating back to his time in Tema’s customs valuation office.
During his tenure there, Allan allegedly developed close relationships with powerful importers, many of whom are believed to have benefited from preferential treatment under his leadership.
Witnesses claim that Allan’s move to Aflao only deepened these relationships, with certain importers continuing to enjoy favorable customs treatment.
While some traders are subjected to thorough inspections and delays, Allan’s preferred importers allegedly have their goods cleared swiftly and with minimal scrutiny.
Growing Calls for Accountability
As the scandal continues to unravel, many are calling for Joseph Allan to be suspended and for an independent investigation to be conducted into his activities.
Emmanuel Edjoxoxo Security expert argued that this case highlights broader issues of corruption and abuse of power within Ghana’s customs operations, particularly at high-traffic border points like Aflao.
He has expressed frustration at what they describe as the erosion of public trust in the Customs Division.
“This is not just about Joseph Allan,” one business leader remarked. “This is about restoring confidence in the entire customs system. We need transparency, and we need real reforms that go beyond removing a few individuals.”
As the investigation unfolds, all eyes are on the Ghana Revenue Authority and its leadership to take decisive action.
Many are now waiting to see whether Joseph Allan will be suspended and if criminal charges will follow should the allegations be proven.
Meanwhile, Aflao remains a crucial border point for goods moving in and out of Ghana, and any disruptions or delays caused by these investigations could have far-reaching effects on the economy.
With traders on edge and calls for reform growing louder, it remains to be seen how the GRA will address the situation and ensure that the customs division is free from corruption moving forward.
