In Kumasi, commercial transport operators running routes from Kejetia to Suame, Suame Post Office, Magazine, Maakro Junction, Breman, Kronom, and Afracho have increased their fares by approximately 70%.
The fare for trotro (shared mini-bus) rides, which previously cost GH₵3.30, has now risen to between GH₵5 and GH₵10, particularly between 3:00 PM and 9:00 PM.
The drivers explain that this fare hike is necessary to offset operational costs and to cope with alleged extortion by police officers stationed along these routes.
Kwame Appiah, a driver on this route, told www.Kumasimail.com that “police officers stationed at Kejetia MTN roundabout and Kwame Antwi area constantly demand money from us as if it’s their entitlement.”
He added that every vehicle loading passengers must pay GH₵10 per trip to the police. “We don’t enjoy charging passengers extra, but the harassment by the police is forcing us into this position,” he lamented.
This issue, according to the drivers, is widely known within Kumasi, especially along the Kejetia-Suame corridor, where police demands have reportedly become increasingly blatant.
Some police personnel allegedly justify these actions by telling drivers they need to “gather money for Christmas” and that upcoming elections might soon put a temporary stop to motor checks.
Commuters in the area are urging government intervention to address this situation. Many are calling on the Ashanti Region’s Police Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) Commander to ensure that officers act professionally and put an end to this reported extortion creating economic discomfort for transport operators and passengers.
The police harassment on commercial transport operator particularly trotro operators extend to Tech Junction among others areas in Greater Kumasi metropolis .
Source: www.kumasimail.com
