- He noted that the initiative was aimed at complementing ongoing efforts by security agencies to improve safety across Onitsha
- , members of the association have witnessed improvements in their operations following the reduction of police checkpoints
- addressing the issue would help restore order in the transport sector and reduce the burden on commercial tricycle operators
Commercial tricycle operators in Onitsha and Ogbaru Local Government Areas of Anambra State have pledged to work closely with security agencies to combat criminal activities, particularly the growing menace of “one-chance” robberies carried out by individuals posing as transport operators.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the commitment was made by members of the Anambra Keke Drivers Forum during a press briefing held in Okpoko, Ogbaru.
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Speaking on behalf of the group, coordinator Ugochukwu Adiele said operators were determined to support law enforcement agencies in identifying and exposing criminals who use tricycles to rob unsuspecting passengers and residents.
He noted that the initiative was aimed at complementing ongoing efforts by security agencies to improve safety across Onitsha, Ogbaru and neighbouring communities.
The forum also commended Ikioye Orutugu and Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo for measures taken to strengthen security in the area.
According to Adiele, members of the association have witnessed improvements in their operations following the reduction of police checkpoints, which he said had previously affected their daily earnings.
He praised the police commissioner for directing the removal of officers allegedly involved in extortion along major routes, describing the move as a relief for tricycle operators.
The forum expressed readiness to provide information to security agencies and help identify operators engaged in criminal activities, insisting that those using tricycles as a cover for robbery and other offences would no longer be tolerated.
The group also urged security agencies to treat intelligence provided by members confidentially to encourage greater cooperation in the fight against crime.
While appreciating the efforts of security personnel and the leadership of the Anambra State Anti-Touting Agency, the operators raised concerns about the activities of alleged illegal park operators and touts in parts of Onitsha and Ogbaru.
They claimed that drivers are compelled to pay multiple daily levies at unauthorised parks despite already meeting government tax obligations.
The association called on Governor Soludo to investigate and dismantle illegal motor parks operating in several locations across the two local government areas, alleging that the activities of touts and unlawful revenue collectors continue to place financial pressure on drivers.
According to the group, addressing the issue would help restore order in the transport sector and reduce the burden on commercial tricycle operators.
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