The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) taskforce has arrested six drivers operating on the Sowutuom, Kwashieman and Odorkor routes in Accra for allegedly splitting journeys into segments and charging passengers multiple fares.
Speaking to Citi News, the National GPRTU Guard Commander, Drumond Ekow Gaisie, said the arrested drivers will be handed over to the police for prosecution.
“We will be taking them to the Odorkor Police Station for prosecution. I entreat drivers involved in such acts to stop else we will fish them out,” he warned.
Meanwhile, some of the drivers, who spoke to Citi News, blamed their actions on what they described as high daily sales targets imposed by vehicle owners, the rising cost of spare parts, and frequent payments to police officers along their routes.
They, however, pleaded for forgiveness, appealing to the taskforce to consider their challenges.
“Our intention is not to cheat. We are pleading with the taskforce and the government to forgive us and help address our concerns especially with regards to the price spare parts,” a driver said.
On his part, the Odorkor Main Branch Chairman of the GPRTU, Nii Adama II, called on Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies to grant permits for commercial vehicle operations only after drivers provide proof of membership with a local GPRTU union.
He explained that most drivers caught splitting journeys into segments are “floating drivers” who do not belong to any recognized union, making it difficult for the GPRTU to discipline or correct them.
