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Ghana Police Crack Down on 'Trotro' Drivers

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  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Thursday, January 29th 2026 at 9:04 GMT by Ghanaweb.com
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Accra, Ghana - January 29, 2026 - The Ghana Police Service is currently executing a nationwide operation targeting 'trotro' (shared taxi) drivers accused of exploiting passengers through inflated fares. The intensified enforcement effort, launched earlier this week, has already resulted in multiple arrests at key transport terminals across the country, responding to a significant increase in public complaints.

The crackdown stems from a period of rising fuel costs, which drivers have attempted to leverage to justify substantial fare increases. While acknowledging the economic pressures faced by transport operators, authorities assert that any fare adjustments must be approved by the relevant transport regulatory bodies and cannot be unilaterally imposed on passengers. The current action specifically focuses on drivers blatantly exceeding established and approved fare structures.

"We have received a considerable number of reports from citizens regarding unfair and excessive fares being charged on 'trotro' routes," stated Superintendent Ama Serwaa, spokesperson for the Ghana Police Service, during a press briefing this morning. "These actions constitute a clear violation of regulations and a deliberate attempt to profit from the hardship faced by ordinary Ghanaians. We are committed to ensuring fair pricing and protecting the rights of commuters."

The operation isn't simply limited to arresting drivers in flagrante delicto. Police are actively monitoring transport terminals, conducting random fare checks, and engaging with passengers to gather evidence. Undercover officers have also been deployed to identify and document instances of overcharging. Furthermore, the police are emphasizing proactive enforcement, urging drivers to adhere to the approved fare list and warning of severe consequences for non-compliance.

Those arrested face charges related to fraudulent practices and violations of transport regulations, potentially leading to fines and/or imprisonment. The police have confirmed that the arrested drivers will be brought before the courts to answer for their actions.

This recent surge in enforcement is building on existing regulatory frameworks. The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and other transport associations are officially responsible for setting and publishing approved fares. The Police, alongside the relevant transport authorities, are now working more closely to enforce these agreed-upon rates. The collaboration seeks to create a more transparent and accountable system for fare determination and implementation.

However, the situation is complex. Drivers argue that the officially approved fare adjustments often fail to adequately cover rising operational costs - including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and insurance. Some drivers suggest the current framework for reviewing and adjusting fares is too slow to respond to rapidly fluctuating fuel prices, leaving them with little choice but to seek additional income.

"We understand the police are doing their job, but they also need to understand our challenges," said Kwame Mensah, a 'trotro' driver operating on the Accra-Tema route. "Fuel prices have gone up dramatically in recent months. The approved increase just isn't enough to cover our expenses. We're not trying to cheat anyone, we're just trying to make a living."

Passengers are encouraged to actively participate in the process by reporting instances of overcharging directly to the police through dedicated hotlines or at any police station. The police have also launched a social media campaign, #FairTrotroFares, to raise awareness and facilitate reporting.

Superintendent Serwaa added, "We urge passengers to request a receipt for their fare and to report any discrepancies immediately. Your cooperation is crucial in helping us address this issue effectively. We are committed to restoring fairness and transparency to the public transport system."

The police have indicated that the operation will be sustained until a significant reduction in overcharging incidents is observed and a culture of compliance is firmly established within the 'trotro' transport sector.