Wa Cambuu Drivers Allege Daily Extortion at Police Checkpoints
Commercial tricycle operators in Wa, popularly known as Cambuu drivers, are calling on authorities to investigate what they describe as the compulsory collection of money by police officers at checkpoints.
The drivers allege that officers demand GH¢5 from each operator at designated barriers. Mr Hamza, a Cambuu driver, said the payments could amount to about GH¢50 a day for some drivers who pass through several checkpoints.
He described the alleged demands as a serious financial burden, particularly as operators contend with declining business.
Another driver, Mr Hakim, told Info Radio at the Wa Central Market that the payments were reducing drivers’ already limited profit margins. He alleged that drivers who refuse to pay are threatened with arrest and being taken to the charge office.
The operators say the alleged practice, coupled with low sales, has forced some drivers out of business.
They are urging the Upper West Regional Police Command, the Upper West Regional Minister and the Wa Municipal Chief Executive to investigate the claims and take steps to prevent any improper collection of money from tricycle operators.
Info Radio has not independently verified the allegations and has yet to obtain a response from the Upper West Regional Police Command.
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