Accra Metropolitan Assembly arrests six transport operators over unapproved fares

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) arrested six commercial transport operators in Accra’s Central Business District on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, for allegedly charging unapproved fares. The group includes three drivers and three conductors, known locally as “mates.”

The enforcement action followed a public warning from Accra Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey regarding arbitrary fare hikes. The arrests were conducted under the AMA (Operation of Commercial Vehicles) By-laws, 2017, which mandate that fares must be approved by the Assembly in consultation with transport unions. The law also prohibits forcing passengers to alight and re-board mid-journey to collect multiple fares.

Specific violations included a Mercedes Benz Sprinter on the Awoshie route charging GH¢15 instead of the approved GH¢7.50, and Toyota Hiace vehicles on the Kasoa and Madina routes also charging rates above the official limits. The suspects were handed over to the police for legal proceedings.