Guyana Revenue Authority appeals $800M luxury car tax ruling

The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has filed an appeal against a High Court ruling that overturned nearly $800 million in tax assessments imposed on Hana Mohamed and Bibi Mohamed. The dispute centers on a 2020 Ferrari 488 and a 2023 Rolls-Royce Cullinan, which the GRA and police attempted to seize from the residence of Azruddin Mohamed, a US-sanctioned businessman and Opposition Leader.

In its Notice of Appeal, the GRA contends that Justice Gino Persaud erred in law and fact when he quashed the tax demands, which totaled G$799,807,731. The authority argues that the High Court failed to consider proper statutory remedies available under the Customs Act and incorrectly assessed the GRA's enforcement powers regarding remigrant concessions. The GRA is seeking to have the High Court's orders reversed, the injunctions preventing the seizure of the vehicles lifted, and the dismissal of the judicial review applications.

Simultaneously, the defense has filed a cross-application on behalf of Hana Mohamed, alleging that the High Court miscalculated portions of the tax assessment.