Imo State Government has smashed a criminal syndicate specialized in selling and distributing unauthorized tickets of various States at the Imo borders.
The operation was carried out through the office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Monitoring and Compliance, via a coordinated operation targeting illegal revenue collection networks operating within and around the borders of the State.
The SA, Nze Chinasa Nwaneri, said that the syndicate were caught in possession of multiple fake documents, permits and certificates purportedly issued by different State Governments and agencies.
Items recovered from them included vehicle and trade permits, haulage clearance papers and membership certificates bearing insignias of several States.
The suspects have since been arrested and currently undergoing investigation by the Nigeria Police, Imo command, for possible prosecution.
Following the development, Nze Nwaneri reiterated Government’s resolve to rid the State of revenue diversion and illegal issuing of tickets by groups who exploit transporters, traders and motorists under false pretenses.
He warned that those engaging in similar acts should desist immediately, as the watchful eyes of the government would continue to uncover and dismantle such illegal operations.
He emphasized that Uzodinma’s administration remained committed to ensuring a transparent, accountable and lawful revenue collection system in the State, urging citizens to report any suspicious issuance of tickets or extortion activities to the relevant authorities.
“No individual or group has the right to exploit government institutions for personal gain.
“Anyone found sabotaging the system will face the full weight of the law,” he said.
