AMA apologises to driver, refunds money over alleged extortion by City Guard

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has formally apologised to private pickup driver Mr Kingsley Boateng and refunded the money allegedly collected from him through an extortion incident. Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey addressed the matter in a press conference on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, assuring the public that the officer's actions did not represent the institution or its approved enforcement procedures.

AMA officials clarified that there was no provision in their by-laws requiring privately registered vehicles used for personal purposes to pay vehicle stickers, and the allegedly demanded fee was not sanctioned by the Assembly's procedures. The officer involved has been apprehended and is currently subject to further action in accordance with the law and AMA's internal disciplinary processes.

Mayor Allotey emphasized that any abuse of authority by City Guards, Task Force members, or other officers would not go unchecked and warned personnel against demanding unauthorized payments from motorists and other members of the public. In response to the incident, the Assembly vowed to strengthen its accountability mechanisms, launching a "See Something, Say Something" initiative to encourage residents to report misconduct involving AMA officers.

The public is urged to report any suspected extortion, misconduct, or inappropriate behavior by AMA officers to 0544 916 4628 or directly to the AMA headquarters for prompt action. Mayor Allotey stressed that enforcing the Assembly's by-laws professionally and lawfully was the sole responsibility of AMA officers, who must not negotiate penalties privately or collect money for personal benefit.

He also advised the public to demand official receipts for every official transaction involving AMA officers to ensure transparency and accountability. Mr Boateng, who attended the press conference, accepted the Assembly's apology and commended the Mayor and management for their swift response, expressing hope that such responsiveness would improve public confidence in state institutions.