The police have detained 20 persons connected to double taxation and unauthorised revenue collection along the Enugu and Abakaliki-Ebonyi roads, ostensibly in an effort to combat economic sabotage and unlawful taxes and to promote the Federal Government’s stance on the ease of doing business.
This was announced in a statement on Wednesday by Assistant Commissioner of Police Muyiwa Adejobi, the force’s public relations officer.
He said, “The arrests mark a significant step towards eradicating illegal activities, promoting economic growth, and ensuring the free flow of industrial and agricultural produce on highways across the country.
“The operatives of the Nigeria Police Force made the first breakthrough on 24/08/24, with the arrest of 14 suspects at the Abakaliki and Ebonyi boundary at 3 a.m.
“Further arrests were made, including five suspects at Abumeje, Ogoja, and the last suspect at the Onuakpu area of Ebonyi. The five suspects have been charged with economic sabotage and illegal and multiple taxation on highways, while the other suspects, who are in custody at the Ebonyi Command, will soon appear in court.
“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to dismantling all illegal revenue collection points and illegal taxation, ensuring a safer and more secure environment for citizens, especially businessmen and women in Nigeria.”
In order to support Nigeria’s economic development, he continued, the operation represents a solid beginning for the police in intensifying and implementing the Presidential order on business facilitation and the battle against unauthorised roadblocks, revenue collection, and multiple taxation on the highways.
