BIRS Staff, others arraigned for operating Illegal checkpoints, fake receipts

More than 50 individuals, including BIRS staff, have been brought before the courts for running illegal checkpoints and producing counterfeit receipts. The concerted efforts of the Benue State Internal Revenue Service (BIRS) and various security agencies to eliminate unlawful revenue collection practices are yielding significant results.

According to records from the enforcement and legal departments of the BIRS, under the leadership of Acting Executive Chairman Emmanuel Agema, FCTI, CNA, over 50 individuals have been apprehended and are facing prosecution in 23 cases across Chief Magistrate Courts (CMC) in the state. These individuals face charges ranging from forgery and impersonation to criminal conspiracy and armed robbery. Among those arrested are members of the infamous “Federal Haulage” group, led by Bernard Iornongu.

Acting Chairman Agema’s firm stance against these acts of sabotage and criminality is evident in the recent arrest of a BIRS staff member, Philemon Kwaghkondo, accused of involvement in a counterfeit receipt racket. Kwaghkondo is currently undergoing trial at CMC 1.

Upon assuming office, Mr. Agema initiated a comprehensive overhaul of the revenue collection structure, including the establishment of a Taskforce team under the Director of Enforcement. This initiative aims to effectively combat illegal checkpoints and other illicit revenue collection practices that have been detrimental to the state’s economy.

Chairman Agema has fostered productive collaborations with key security agencies in the state, contributing to the notable achievements in curbing these unlawful activities. Recognizing the need for collective action, he has also engaged traditional leaders and community groups, urging them to dissuade youths from engaging in criminal activities and to expose those involved in illegal practices within their communities.

Acknowledging the support received from the leadership of the 10th Benue State House of Assembly, particularly the Assembly Committees on Finance and Public Accounts, Chairman Agema urges swift action on pending bills aimed at imposing stricter penalties on tax evaders and operators of illegal checkpoints.