AMA Mayor apologises to alleged extortion victim, orders refund

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has expressed regret to a resident who claimed that certain Assembly officials extorted money from him. AMA Chief Executive Michael Kpakpo Allotey has ordered the return of the alleged extortion money from Kingsley Boateng. During a press conference in Accra on Wednesday, August 19, Allotey addressed complaints about the behavior of some AMA staff.

He emphasized that City Guards and task force personnel are not permitted to demand unauthorized payments from the general public. The Mayor cautioned that any AMA official found guilty of extortion would face legal repercussions. He encouraged residents to report similar incidents to the Assembly, promising that the AMA would not shield personnel who misuse their positions or exploit members of the public.

Boateng, who attended the meeting, acknowledged the Mayor's apology. This comes after a series of concerns over alleged extortion involving law enforcement and other officials in Accra. Allotey also discussed the regulations for aboboya and tricycle operators in the city. He stated that all such vehicles must be equipped with reflectors and must use outer lanes of roads where alternative routes are available, instead of the inner lanes of major highways.

The Mayor stressed that these measures aim to enhance visibility, reduce traffic accidents, and promote order on Accra's roads. He also urged trotro and taxi drivers to comply with legally approved fare structures, warning against imposing arbitrary charges on passengers. The AMA pledged to strictly enforce its regulations and take disciplinary action against officials found to have abused their authority. Residents were also urged to report any misconduct by AMA staff to facilitate appropriate action.