Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno has summoned the Volta Regional Police Commander over allegations that certain police personnel have been harassing, intimidating and allegedly extorting local traders on the Aflao – Accra major road.
The allegations, which surfaced through a viral social media post, have triggered an internal response from the Ghana Police Service as authorities seek to establish what happened and whether any officers breached professional standards.
The affected checkpoints include the Tokor Barrier, the Ativuta Toll Booth, the Weta–Afiadenyigba Junction Barrier and others heading to Sogakope.
The allegations centre on claims that some officers demand receipts or other documentation from traders transporting goods. Traders who allegedly fail to produce the requested documents are said to face delays and demands for money.
At this stage, the claims remain allegations. The Police Administration has not established that the accused personnel committed the alleged acts.
The Volta Regional Police Commander DCOP Wisdom Akorli has convened a meeting with all Divisional and District Police Commanders in the area after his recent meetings with the IGP.
The Joint Association of Port Transport Unions (JAPTU) has urged top police officers to intervene. The group said its worries extended beyond the sheer number or presence of police checkpoints along the route. They say the claimed delays, intimidation, and extortion encountered by dealers are important concerns to be addressed.
The issue has wider implications because the Aflao–Accra corridor is an important route for the movement of people and goods. Complaints about unnecessary delays or misconduct at checkpoints can therefore affect traders and transport operators who depend on the route for their businesses.
The Ghana Police Service has already cautioned personnel deployed to the affected locations against misconduct.
It is also setting up an inspection team to identify and investigate officers who may have been involved in the alleged conduct. The Police Administration says disciplinary action will be taken if the allegations are substantiated.
