VAT offender sentenced to a maximum fine of 10 million cedis

The Takoradi Regional Tribunal has sentenced a Takoradi-based wholesaler and retailer of general goods, Nana Owusu Ankomah, to a maximum fine of 10 million cedis for issuing his own invoice instead of the VAT invoice.

In default he is to spend five years in prison to serve as a deterrent to others. The court, presided over by Justice Emmanuel Dzakpasu said that the accused, Director of O & O Limited, failed in his obligation as VAT registered trader to issue a VAT invoice as contained in section 19 of the VAT Law, 1998 (Act 546).

Presenting the case for the prosecution Assistant State Attorney, Mr. George Kpodo said the VAT office made a test purchase at the shop and the shop assistant failed to issue a VAT invoice. "Subsequently, a team from the Local VAT Office Enforcement unit paid a visit to the premises on August five last year to check on the trader's compliance.'' It however found that at the retail section, a VAT invoice was not available. Mr. Amua Sakyi, Counsel for the accused, said the accused committed the offence out of ignorance of the VAT law and should, therefore, not be found guilty of the offence.