The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has issued a stern warning to commercial drivers to stop charging unapproved transport fares or face legal action.

The caution follows the arrest of six commercial drivers during an enforcement exercise conducted on Wednesday evening.

The Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, personally led a task force operation to monitor fare compliance across key parts of the metropolis. The operation, which began around 5:30 p.m., moved from the COCOBOD section of Kwame Nkrumah Avenue through to the Farisco traffic light.

The exercise targeted these areas during peak hours, when commuter activity is highest, particularly for passengers travelling to destinations such as Kaneshie, Awoshie, Kasoa and Lapaz.

Although six drivers were apprehended during the sweep, they were cautioned and released.

Speaking in an interview on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, the AMA’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Gilbert Ankrah, explained that the Mayor granted a pardon because it was the first day of the enforcement drive.

However, Ankrah stressed that the period of leniency has ended.

“I want to state that we will no longer caution drivers. Moving forward, any driver arrested for charging unapproved fares will be prosecuted. The exercise will continue and will be intensified across the metropolis,” he said.

To prevent drivers from exploiting passengers, the AMA plans to intensify monitoring. The Mayor’s team will continue to intercept trotros and other commercial vehicles in heavy traffic to verify fares directly with passengers. The Assembly will also collaborate with other Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) within the Greater Accra Region to address the issue.

Ankrah emphasised that the exercise is not a “one-day wonder” and encouraged the public to report any drivers who demand illegal fares.