Abia Taskforce Nabs Fake Revenue Collectors Impersonating NURTW Officials in Aba

The Abia State Harmonized Taskforce (ASHTF) has arrested four suspects posing as officials of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) for engaging in acts of extortion, intimidation, and illegal enforcement along the Port Harcourt Road axis of Aba.

The suspects were apprehended on Thursday at the Flyover Junction in Ugwunagbo following an operation authorized by the Aba Area Coordinator of ASHTF, Mr. Uche Wogu.

According to a statement issued by Miracle Chukwunenye, the spokesperson for the Taskforce, the arrests followed multiple complaints from market women, tricycle (Keke) operators, and traders about the group’s unlawful activities. The syndicate, led by one Mr. Ahuama, was caught extorting money from unsuspecting residents under the false claim of being NURTW officials.

“Upon arrival, the Taskforce, in joint effort with the police, arrested Mr. Ahuama and three accomplices who were caught extorting traders and tricycle operators. Investigations revealed that they had already impounded about 20 tricycles earlier that morning and collected money from the owners before being intercepted,” Chukwunenye stated.

The suspects reportedly resisted arrest and even attacked Taskforce operatives and police officers, but were eventually subdued and taken into custody.

Chukwunenye used the opportunity to remind residents that Abia State operates a strict No-Cash-at-Hand revenue policy, emphasizing that no legitimate government agent is permitted to collect physical cash from citizens.

The ASHTF reiterated its commitment to sanitizing Aba and ensuring that all revenue activities are conducted transparently through approved government channels.