Drivers connive with criminals to rob passengers?

Tema, Dec. 06, GNA -- The Tema Regional Police Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Jonathan Yakubu on Wednesday called on taxi drivers to exhibit utmost professionalism while at work to save the lives of passengers from criminals.

He said drivers contribute largely towards the growth of Ghana's tourism industry as they are the first to come into contact with tourists and this requires good human relations and courtesy.

He therefore cautioned drivers not to connive with criminals to rob unsuspecting passengers and other residents of their belongings in order not to tarnish the image of the profession.

Mr Yakubu, gave the warning at an educational forum for taxi drivers in Tema and also advised against the practice of giving their vehicles to spare drivers since they are not conversant with driving regulations. Spare drivers caught for committing driving offence would be prosecuted together with their drivers on the charge of abetment or compounding crime.

He underscored the need for drivers to observe the attitude and behaviour of passengers to detect any suspicious characters and cause their arrest, especially during the Christmas festivities. The Commander advised drivers to adhere strictly to traffic regulations and avoid excessive speeding, unnecessary overtaking, overloading as well as driving under the influence of alcohol, practices that contribute largely to accidents.

Mr Yakubu asked car owners to ensure the welfare and security of their passengers by allowing them to close early to rest to avoid stress, pay them reasonable wages and also ensure constant maintenance of the vehicles, which is a prerequisite to safe driving. Mr Prosper Ayisi, Tema Regional Police Commander of the Motor Transport and Traffic Unit (MTTU) urged drivers to muster courage to report police personnel who behave unprofessionally on the road, assuring them of protecting their identity.

The drivers called for continuous public road safety educational campaign saying, it should not be limited to only festivities.