Anambra agency suspends three traffic officers fighting over bribe

The three traffic officers were recently caught on camera publicly fighting with police traffic personnel over money purportedly given to them by a motorist.

Recall that a video circulated on social media a few days ago, showing four female traffic officers (comprising three ARTMA officials and one police traffic officer) throwing punches at each other while still in their uniforms at their duty post at Aroma Junction, Awka.

It was gathered that the incident caused gridlock as the fight occurred in the middle of the road, thereby attracting a large crowd to the scene and motorists slowed down to watch as the fight was going on.

The footage which showed the four officers exchanging punches over monetary disputes and sharing formula while on duty has sparked widespread condemnation on social media after the video went viral.

However, reacting to the development in a press statement on Thursday, the Managing Director and CEO of ARTMA, Emeka Okonkwo, expressed regret over the incident, stating that such did not reflect the agency’s standards and values.

Okonkwo said the three officers involved have been placed on immediate suspension pending further disciplinary measures.

The statement read in part, “The Anambra State Road Traffic Agency acknowledges the recent incident involving three of our personnel, who were filmed engaging in a physical altercation over monetary disputes with a member of another traffic agency at Aroma Junction while on duty.

“We wish to assure the public that we have conducted a thorough investigation into the matter. As a result, the personnel involved have been placed on immediate suspension pending further disciplinary actions.

“ARTMA has long been recognised for its dedication to maintaining order and ensuring effective road and traffic management in Anambra State.

“This incident does not reflect the standards and values upheld by our agency. We deeply regret the conduct of these individuals and understand the negative impact it may have had on public trust.”

He maintained that the agency remains firmly committed to its mission of delivering reliable and professional traffic management for the state.