The Cross River State Police Command has warned its personnel against demanding or collecting money from commercial drivers and tricycle operators during stop-and-search operations, following allegations of roadside extortion along Calabar Road and adjoining areas.
The warning came after a recent report by The Punch alleged that commercial drivers and tricycle operators were being extorted along the Calabar Road to Watt Market axis.
The Command, in response, held a meeting with transport stakeholders at the Atakpa Police Division on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, to address the allegations and strengthen collaboration between the police and transport operators.
The meeting was held in line with the policing vision of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, particularly his emphasis on discipline, accountability and community-oriented policing.
The Commissioner was represented by the Divisional Police Officer of Atakpa Police Division, CSP Azenda Peter, whose division has jurisdiction over the area where the alleged extortion was reported.
Among those present were executives of the Unified Commercial Drivers Association of Cross River State, led by its State Chairman, Nta Henshaw, and representatives of the Tricycle Owners Association of Nigeria, led by the Calabar South/Municipality Chairman, Chief Pastor Ekpenyong Ewa.
The police command made it clear that no police officer is authorised to demand, solicit or compel motorists or riders to make payments during stop-and-search operations or other lawful police dutie