Several trotro drivers and their mates have reportedly been arrested by authorities over alleged unauthorized increases in transport fares across parts of the country.
The arrests come amid growing complaints from commuters who accused some commercial drivers of charging passengers fares far above the approved rates despite no official announcement authorizing an increment.
According to reports, security officers and transport regulators launched an operation after receiving multiple concerns from passengers about sudden fare hikes at various transport terminals. Some commuters claimed they were forced to pay inflated prices or risk being left stranded, especially during peak hours.
Authorities say the drivers and mates arrested are suspected of defying existing transport fare directives by imposing arbitrary charges on passengers. Officials insist that any adjustment in transport fares must go through the appropriate consultations and receive approval from the relevant transport unions and regulatory bodies before implementation.
The operation reportedly targeted busy transport hubs where passengers had repeatedly complained about exploitation and inconsistent pricing. Some drivers are alleged to have justified the increases by citing rising fuel prices, vehicle maintenance costs, spare parts, and daily operational expenses.
However, officials maintain that transport operators cannot independently announce or enforce fare increments without official approval. They warned that continued violations could lead to more arrests and possible sanctions against offending drivers and station managers.
Some passengers welcomed the crackdown, arguing that illegal fare hikes place additional financial pressure on ordinary Ghanaians already struggling with the rising cost of living. Others called for stronger monitoring systems at lorry stations to ensure passengers are protected from unfair charges.
Meanwhile, transport unions are expected to engage government and stakeholders in discussions over concerns being raised by commercial drivers regarding operational costs and economic pressures affecting the transport sector.
Authorities have assured the public that measures are being put in place to enforce compliance while maintaining order within the commercial transport system. Investigations into the alleged illegal fare hikes are ongoing.
Source
https://www.myjoyonline.com/trotro-drivers-mates-arrested-over-alleged-illegal-transport-fare-hikes/
