Motorcycle couriers petition IGP over alleged police harassment and roadblocks

The Motorcycle Couriers Union of Ghana (MCUG) has officially petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, over what it describes as persistent police harassment and excessive roadblocks targeting its members across the country.

In a detailed petition signed by the General Secretary, Abugri Timothy Agengri, the union expressed deep frustration with ongoing police operations that they say have become “disruptive and discriminatory,” especially against motorcycle couriers who provide essential delivery services in major cities.

According to the petition, riders are frequently subjected to arbitrary stops, prolonged questioning, and in some instances, unlawful demands for money. The union argued that while it supports efforts to ensure public safety and enforce traffic regulations, the intensity and frequency of these operations have gone beyond reasonable policing.

“Our members are being treated as if every rider on the road is a criminal. These constant stops delay deliveries, cause financial losses, and expose riders to mistreatment and extortion,” the petition stated.

The MCUG emphasized that its members are registered operators who adhere to safety standards, pay taxes, and contribute significantly to Ghana’s growing logistics and e-commerce sector. The group maintained that couriers play a vital role in urban mobility and the supply chain, especially in sectors such as food delivery, pharmaceuticals, and parcel distribution.

To address the situation, the union has proposed a number of measures, including:

A review of police operational guidelines to ensure that enforcement actions do not unfairly target motorcyclists.

Creation of formal communication and complaint channels through which riders can safely report cases of police misconduct or extortion.

Training and sensitisation of police officers on the socio-economic importance of motorcycle couriers and the need for professional engagement with them on the road.

A roundtable dialogue between the Ghana Police Service and courier associations to build mutual understanding and design realistic safety frameworks.

Mr. Abugri added that the union has already documented several incidents involving harassment and unlawful seizure of bikes, which will be presented to the police administration for investigation.

“We are not against law enforcement, but we are calling for fairness and respect. Courier riders are helping to drive the digital economy, and we deserve to work in an environment free from intimidation,” he said.

The MCUG also appealed to the Ministry of Transport and the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) to support the dialogue process and help develop clear national guidelines for regulating the courier industry without stifling its growth.

Meanwhile, sources within the Police Administration have indicated that the IGP has acknowledged receipt of the petition and directed the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) to review the concerns and engage relevant stakeholders.

The union says it remains open to collaboration and hopes the engagement will lead to reforms that promote road safety, professionalism, and mutual respect between the police and motorcycle operators.