The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has confirmed the arrest of six commercial drivers on Wednesday, December 17, during a task force operation led by the Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, aimed at enforcing compliance with approved transport fares across the city.

According to a Facebook post shared by the Assembly, the exercise which commenced at about 5:30 p.m., began at the COCOBOD section of the Kwame Nkrumah Avenue in Accra’s Central Business District and proceeded to the Farisco traffic light.

The area was particularly busy, with peak-hour congestion and a high volume of commuters boarding vehicles bound for destinations including Kaneshie, Awoshie, Kasoa, and Lapaz.

Mayor Allotey, accompanied by the taskforce, personally navigated the heavy traffic, stopping trotros and other commercial vehicles to inspect fare practices.

Drivers were questioned about the fares they charged, while passengers on board were asked to verify whether the fares aligned with the approved rates.

The checks reportedly revealed mixed compliance. While several drivers charged fares in accordance with the approved schedule, six drivers were found demanding higher-than-approved amounts.

These drivers were subsequently arrested by the taskforce for violating transport fare regulations.

A spokesperson for the AMA taskforce emphasised that such operations would continue across the metropolis to safeguard commuter rights and maintain order in the city’s transport system.

The arrests come amid growing concerns over fare irregularities in Accra’s commercial transport sector, particularly during peak hours when commuters are most vulnerable to overcharging.

The AMA has urged all drivers to cooperate with authorities and reminded passengers to report any instances of fare violations.