Abia Taskforce Arrests Fake C Members for Extorting Traders and Keke Operators in Aba
story written by okafor joseph october 10,2025
The Abia State Harmonized Taskforce (ASHTF) has arrested four suspected fraudsters posing as officials of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) for allegedly extorting money and intimidating residents in Aba and nearby communities.
The suspects were apprehended on Thursday at the Flyover Junction around Ugwunagbo area following a coordinated operation approved by the Aba Area Coordinator of ASHTF, Mr. Uche Wogu.
In a statement issued by Miracle Chukwunenye, spokesperson of the Harmonized Taskforce, the arrests followed multiple complaints from market women, tricycle (Keke) operators, and traders, who reported that a group led by one Mr. Ahuama had been illegally collecting levies and harassing residents under the guise of being NURTW members.
“Upon arrival, the Taskforce, working with the police, arrested Mr. Ahuama and three of his accomplices while they were extorting money from unsuspecting traders and Keke riders under false pretenses,” Chukwunenye stated.
Further investigations revealed that the suspects had already impounded about 20 tricycles earlier that morning, extorting cash from the owners before they were intercepted by security personnel.
Chukwunenye added that the suspects resisted arrest and attempted to attack Taskforce and police officers, but were eventually subdued and taken into custody.
He reminded residents that Abia State operates a strict “No Cash Collection” revenue policy, emphasizing that no legitimate government officer or agency is permitted to demand or receive cash payments directly from citizens.
“We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or illegal collections to the nearest Taskforce office or police station,” he added.
The Abia Harmonized Taskforce reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order, warning that anyone caught impersonating government or union officials to exploit residents will face prosecution.
