The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has reintroduced official identification badges for Customs Officers, with the move aimed at strengthening professionalism, accountability and public confidence at Guyana’s borders.
The badges, which were previously part of the Customs uniform before being discontinued following changes to the dress code, are now being issued to officers assigned to Customs, Excise and Trade Operations.
According to the GRA, the reintroduction followed about two years of planning and was guided by international standards established by the World Customs Organization.
The badges are intended to give members of the public a simple way to identify and confirm that someone is an authorised Customs Officer.
The move also comes as Guyana sees increased economic activity and more people entering the country through its airports, ports and other points of entry. Customs Officers are often among the first government representatives encountered by arriving passengers.
The GRA said the badges could also help address concerns about persons impersonating Customs Officers to carry out fraud or other illegal activities.
At a commissioning and distribution ceremony at GRA Headquarters on September 8, Commissioner-General Godfrey Statia urged officers to wear the badges with pride while recognising the responsibility attached to representing the Authority.
Comptroller of Customs Rohan Beekhoo reminded officers that their conduct while on duty is critical, stressing that the badge represents not only the individual officer but also the professionalism and integrity of the Customs Administration.
Officers receiving the badges have also been given guidelines on their proper use, handling and care.
Source: NEW ROOMS SITE
