The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has issued a stern warning to commercial drivers to stop charging unapproved transport fares or face legal action.
This caution follows the arrest of six commercial drivers during an enforcement exercise on Wednesday evening.
Mayor of Accra, Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, personally led a task force operation to monitor fare compliance across key parts of the metropolis. Starting around 5:30 p.m., the team moved from the COCOBOD section of Kwame Nkrumah Avenue through to the Farisco traffic light.
The operation targeted these areas during peak hours when commuter activity is highest for those traveling to destinations such as Kaneshie, Awoshie, Kasoa, and Lapaz.
Zero Tolerance Moving Forward
While six drivers were apprehended during the sweep, they were ultimately cautioned and released.
Speaking in an interview with Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, AMA Public Relations Officer Mr. Gilbert Ankrah explained that the Mayor granted a pardon because it was the first day of the enforcement drive.
However, Mr. Ankrah made it clear that the period of leniency has ended: ”I want to state that we will no longer caution drivers. Moving forward, any driver arrested for charging unapproved fares will be prosecuted. The exercise will continue and be intensified across the metropolis.”
To ensure drivers do not exploit passengers, the AMA plans to: “Intensify Monitoring. The Mayor’s team will continue to intercept “trotros” and other commercial vehicles in heavy traffic to verify fares directly with passengers. The AMA will partner with other Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) within the Greater Accra Region to tackle the issue.”
Mr. Ankrah emphasised that this is not a “one-day wonder” and encouraged Ghanaians to report any drivers who demand illegal fares.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
