The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has taken a firm stance against fare gouging, arresting 15 drivers caught charging excessive fares to passengers. This bold action underscores the union’s commitment to protecting commuters amid rising transport costs in Accra and beyond. Public Relations Officer for GPRTU, Alhaji Abass Morro, confirmed that all those apprehended are bona fide members of the union, signaling that no one is above the rules.
Alhaji Morro emphasized that these arrests serve as a stark warning to other drivers. We are using these members as a deterrent, he stated, adding that any driver found engaging in exorbitant pricing will face swift arrest and disciplinary action. This crackdown comes at a time when passengers have voiced frustration over inflated fares, often exceeding approved rates set by the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) following recent fuel price hikes.
Currently, operations are being carried out exclusively by GPRTU’s internal task force, with arrested drivers promptly handed over to the police for further processing. Morro revealed that the union is seeking approval from the Transport Minister to bolster their efforts by incorporating assembly members and additional police personnel into the task force. This potential expansion aims to intensify monitoring and enforcement across major transport hubs.
GPRTU’s proactive measures highlight the union’s role in self-regulation within Ghana’s trotro and commercial transport sector, which serves millions daily. As fuel costs and inflation pressures mount, commuters welcome the initiative, hoping it restores fairness to the system. Union leaders have urged members to adhere strictly to approved fare structures, promising continued vigilance to maintain public trust.
Story by: Ohemaa Adusi-Poku