The Edo State Taskforce has arrested two suspected illegal revenue collectors at the Uwelu Spare Parts Market in Egor Local Government Area, following complaints of alleged extortion from traders and customers.
Key Highlights:
- Two suspected illegal revenue collectors arrested in Uwelu Spare Parts Market.
- Traders accused suspects of extorting business owners through unauthorised levies.
- Suspects allegedly issued fake revenue tickets despite the state government’s ban.
- Taskforce warns illegal revenue collectors to stop or face prosecution.
- Investigation underway to uncover others linked to the alleged operation.
The suspects were apprehended after market traders and customers reported that unidentified individuals were demanding illegal payments from people carrying out legitimate business activities.
Speaking to journalists after the operation, the Station Officer of the Edo State Taskforce, Johnbull Rufus, said the arrests followed credible intelligence received from the market.
According to him, the suspects were allegedly issuing unauthorised tickets and collecting illegal levies in violation of the Edo State Government’s directive banning illegal revenue collection across the state.
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“We received complaints from traders and customers at the Uwelu Market that some individuals were extorting people carrying out their legitimate businesses. Based on those reports, the Edo State Taskforce immediately swung into action and arrested two suspects,” Rufus said.
He reiterated the commitment of the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration to protecting businesses from extortion and illegal taxation, warning that anyone involved in unauthorised revenue collection would be arrested and prosecuted.
Rufus added that the government remains determined to create a business-friendly environment by eliminating all forms of illegal ticketing, harassment and multiple taxation.
The suspects, identified as Tony Amayo and Thompson Okun, claimed they were acting under the instruction of their employer, Kingsley Ikhimwin, who allegedly told them the revenue collection had the approval of the local government council.
The suspects are currently in custody and are expected to face further investigation as authorities intensify the crackdown on illegal revenue collectors across Edo State.
