Tanker Drivers Union Demands Action: The Ghana National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union is raising the alarm over a series of violent incidents involving police outriders attacking its members.

At a recent press conference in Tema, Union Chairman George Teye Nyaunu described the escalating situation, citing frequent and severe encounters that have resulted in injuries to drivers and growing concerns over their safety on the roads.

Details of the Incidents

The Union reported a disturbing trend where police outriders have resorted to aggressive tactics, including throwing stones at tanker drivers who do not comply with demands to stop at specific locations. One particularly severe incident left a driver with grave injuries following a physical assault by police outriders. The Union claims that these confrontations have put both the tanker drivers and other road users in significant danger.

Nyaunu expressed frustration over the lack of engagement from law enforcement authorities, despite several attempts to address these safety issues. The Union has made repeated efforts to bring the matter to the attention of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), but no response or acknowledgment has been received from the police leadership.

Tanker Drivers Union Demands Action: Union’s Frustration with Police Inaction

The Union’s frustration centers on what they perceive as neglect by the police authorities. “We have made several attempts to discuss these issues with the Inspector General of Police, but there has been no response,” Nyaunu stated at the press conference.

“This neglect is alarming and unacceptable.” The Union’s concern is heightened by the fact that tanker driving is already a high-risk profession, and the hostile behavior from police outriders only exacerbates the dangers associated with their work.

Growing Concerns Among Tanker Drivers

The frequency and severity of these incidents have sparked widespread concern within the tanker driving community. Many drivers have shared their harrowing experiences, describing a growing sense of vulnerability while on the job. The heavy trucks they operate already pose significant operational risks, and the added threat from hostile police encounters only increases the danger. Drivers fear for their safety, and the Union is calling for urgent measures to protect them from further harm.

The Union’s Call for Immediate Action

In response to the escalating situation, the Union is demanding that authorities take immediate action to address the violent behavior of police outriders. The Union is advocating for a safer working environment for tanker drivers, insisting that the authorities prioritize their safety. Nyaunu emphasized that without prompt intervention, the Union may be forced to take matters into its own hands to safeguard its members, which could lead to further unrest on the roads.

The Union’s demands include:

1. Immediate cessation of violent actions by police outriders: The Union wants clear directives to be issued to the police to stop the aggressive behavior toward tanker drivers.
2. Engagement with law enforcement authorities: The Union is seeking direct communication with the IGP and other relevant authorities to discuss the issue and find a long-term solution.
3. Enhanced protection measures for drivers: They are calling for policies that ensure the safety of tanker drivers, especially when dealing with law enforcement on the roads.

Potential Consequences if No Action is Taken

The Ghana National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union warns that if the situation continues unchecked, it may lead to further escalation. The Union has indicated a willingness to pursue other means to protect its members if their concerns are not addressed promptly. This could potentially involve industrial actions or protests, which may disrupt petroleum distribution and result in significant economic consequences for the country.

Advocacy for Drivers’ Rights and Safety

The Union remains committed to advocating for the rights and safety of its members, emphasizing that tanker drivers deserve the same level of protection as other road users. The organization has called on all stakeholders, including the government and civil society, to support their efforts in demanding accountability from the police and ensuring that drivers can perform their duties without fear of violence or harassment.

The Union’s actions highlight broader issues surrounding the relationship between law enforcement and commercial drivers in Ghana, with the hope that increased public awareness and pressure will prompt authorities to take meaningful steps toward resolving these conflicts.

Also read: Ghana Police Launch Manhunt for Gunmen in Accra Shooting Incident

Conclusion

Tanker Drivers Union Demands Action: The Ghana National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union’s warning comes amid growing concerns over the safety of commercial drivers in the country. The Union’s call for immediate action and dialogue with law enforcement officials aims to prevent further incidents and ensure a safer working environment for tanker drivers. As the Union pushes for accountability and protective measures, the outcome of this situation may set a precedent for how road safety issues involving commercial drivers and police are handled in the future.

Tanker Drivers Union Demands Action

Source: 3news.com