National Security operatives stationed at Circle Market in Accra have arrested a commercial driver and his conductor for charging passengers unauthorised transport fares, in violation of approved pricing regulations.
The arrest, which took place in the full view of journalists from Kasapa FM and Agoo TV, forms part of intensified enforcement actions against arbitrary fare hikes by some commercial transport operators.
Speaking to Kasapa FM News, the Commander in charge of operations of the National Security Monitoring and Evaluation Team at Circle said the exercise is aimed at protecting commuters from exploitation.
According to him, despite repeated warnings and public education, some drivers have continued to impose self-determined fares, particularly during peak hours and in busy commercial hubs such as Circle, Kaneshie, and other major terminals.
He revealed that just three days ago, the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) formally petitioned the National Security office over the growing indiscipline among some of its members who have refused to comply with approved fares.
The officer in charge of operations, John Sey, warned that enforcement actions will be sustained and that drivers and transport operators who flout fare regulations will face sanctions, including arrest and prosecution.
Background: Widespread Fare Abuse by Some Drivers
The arrest comes against the backdrop of widespread illegal fare practices by some commercial drivers across the country.
In recent months, commuters have complained of unilateral fare increases, often without approval from transport unions or regulators. Drivers frequently cite factors such as traffic congestion, poor road conditions, fuel costs, or vehicle maintenance—despite the absence of any official fare adjustments.
This conduct has been particularly pronounced in urban centres, where passengers are often forced to pay inflated fares or risk being stranded. In some cases, drivers allegedly alter fares mid-journey or demand extra charges for short distances.
Transport authorities have consistently maintained that only approved fares announced through the appropriate channels are lawful, and any deviation constitutes an offence.
Government Questions Justification for Fare Hikes
The Head of the National Security Circle Station, Nene Ofotsu, questioned the rationale behind the continued fare hikes, especially in light of recent reductions in fuel prices by the government.
He stressed that there is no justification for charging passengers beyond approved rates and urged drivers to act responsibly or face the full force of the law.
National Security has assured the public that monitoring and enforcement operations will continue across major transport terminals to ensure compliance and protect commuters from exploitation.
By paqmediagh/Peter Quao Adattor
