The Police Motor, Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) would be clamping down on commercial tricycle and motorcycle operators in the Ashanti Region.

Regional MTTD Commander, Superintendent Emmanuel Adu Boahen, described as unacceptable the rate of road crashes involving motorcycles and tricycles in the region.

Road crashes in the region increased from 2,974 in 2019 to 3,137 in 2020.

A total of 518 persons have been killed in road accidents as at December 10, 2020 compare to 409 in 2019 over the same period.

Out of this figure, 167 representing 32 per cent of cases were killed by motorcycles and tricycles.

Out of 518 persons killed, 420 were males, while 97 were females.

"From January to December 10, 2019, we recorded 2,974  cases in Ashanti region alone and then this year, we would have expected that because of the Covid-19 and the lockdowns and the restrictions that came thereof, that the traffic crashes will also reduce.

"Unfortunately, we have recorded 3,137 crashes within the Ashanti Region. We cannot be proud of this figure," he said.

In 2019 same period, 409 people lost their lives and this year same period, 518 which is alarming," said Supt Adu Boahen.

Mr Adu Boahen tells JoyNews the police will strictly enforce road traffic regulations, including a series of sensitization campaigns to educate the public on the menace.

"How long shall we sit down for innocent souls to be lost on these preventable crashes," he quizzed.

"That's why we are here today to sensitize the public-both the pedestrians, the drivers, passengers and everybody, including the media so that we all come together so we all arrive alive.

"Whilst we are doing the education, then we also back it with enforcement."

Accidents involving motorbikes and motorcycles in the Ashanti region increased by 20 per cent, from 872 cases in 2019 to 1,017 in 2020.

"Twenty per cent is not a small figure. That's why we have been hammering on tricycles and motorbike users.

"We are not saying that people should not use them. But if you are using the motorbike, make sure you have your crash helmet on," Mr Adu Boahen said.

Total number of persons killed by motorcycle, tricycle and knockdowns stand at 306, representing  59 per cent of the figure.

The police MTTD has been meeting leadership of transport unions at Tech Junction and other lorry terminals as part of an educational drive ahead of the yuletide.

Mr. Adu Boahen wants all hands on deck to reverse the trend.

"I want to caution those of us who are a fan of using these tricycles as passengers. The vehicle is not constructed in a way that is comfortable and it's safe to be used as commercial vehicles," he warned.

Meanwhile, the KNUST District MTTD Commander, ASP Bernice Konadu wants drivers to stay away from drink-driving, over-speeding, overloading , among others, to make this year's festive season accident free.