Truck drivers allege intimidation, extortion along northern transit routes

The Ghana Secretariat of the Joint Association of Port Truckers (JAPTU) has reportedly received a number of complaints from truck drivers over alleged intimidation, harassment, prolonged delays and extortion at some police checkpoints along major northern transit corridors.

The concerns, which have reportedly emerged in recent weeks, are particularly linked to sections of the Tamale–Walewale route, as well as parts of the Upper East and Upper West Regions.

According to complaints received by the association, some truck drivers are allegedly subjected to lengthy stops after refusing to comply with demands for unofficial payments purportedly made during routine police checks.

The drivers further allege that vehicles travelling between Walewale and Tamale are sometimes stopped in large numbers, resulting in significant delays.

Some complainants have also raised concerns about the treatment of drivers using driving licences issued by Burkina Faso.

They allege that, in some instances, the licences are declared fake or invalid by officers, after which drivers are allegedly asked to pay amounts ranging from GH¢600 to GH¢1,000 before being permitted to continue their journeys.

Drivers who reportedly refuse or are unable to make such payments are alleged to face further delays, detention or, in some cases, handcuffing.

The complaints also extend to the inspection of items contained in vehicle first-aid kits. Drivers allege that some officers demand access to materials such as alcohol, scissors and other emergency supplies.

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In another allegation, some drivers claim that police personnel have sought to inspect personal items, including condoms, during roadside checks.

The alleged practices are said to be contributing to prolonged transit times, additional financial burdens and difficulties for truck operators and passengers using the northern corridors.

JAPTU is concerned that, if established, such practices could undermine efforts to improve Ghana’s reputation as a preferred transit destination and adversely affect trade facilitation between Ghana and its landlocked neighbouring countries.

The concerns come at a time when the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) and the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) are pursuing initiatives aimed at attracting more cargo from landlocked and neighbouring countries through Ghana’s ports and transit corridors.

A video reportedly supplied by one of the complainants, showing several vehicles stopped along the route, has also been cited as supporting material. The footage could form part of further verification into the allegations.

The claims have not been independently verified, and the conduct described cannot be attributed to the Ghana Police Service as a whole without evidence establishing the involvement of specific officers.

The allegations nonetheless raise concerns about the need for transparency, accountability and professionalism in the management of Ghana’s major transit routes, particularly where roadside enforcement has implications for trade and regional commerce.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith