FRSC arrests 280 drivers for bribery in Cross River

Cross River FRSC Arrests 280 Drivers for Bribery Attempts

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Cross River State has arrested 280 drivers for attempting to bribe its personnel. These incidents occurred at various checkpoints across the state between June and October 2025.

Sector Commander Mr. Innocent Tommy Etuk confirmed the arrests. He spoke during a live programme on HIT FM in Calabar, focusing on road safety measures for the Ember Months. Etuk urged drivers to resist the temptation to offer bribes, warning that both givers and takers would face legal sanctions.

Cracking Down on Road Corruption

Etuk explained that the arrests are part of a broader effort to discourage drivers from encouraging extortion by FRSC officers. He stated that this campaign sends a strong message that corruption will not be tolerated within the corps. The commander advised motorists to legally record any extortion attempts and report them. He assured the public that all such reports would be thoroughly investigated.

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The FRSC maintains a zero-tolerance policy for road corruption, extortion, or assault involving its personnel, Etuk emphasized. He noted that internal mechanisms exist to deal with any officer found culpable.

Public Complaints and Call for Reform

During the radio program, several callers voiced serious complaints about alleged extortion and harassment by FRSC officers, particularly in Calabar and surrounding areas. They listed problematic routes and appealed to the commander to conduct discreet monitoring to check these excesses.

Some callers shared specific experiences. They recounted how officers impounded vehicles or assaulted motorists who refused to pay bribes, even when their vehicle documents were complete. One caller alleged that officers often invent excuses to extort money. Another caller, Joshua Imo, narrated how he was beaten by officers along Atimbo Road after he refused to pay more than ₦500.

In response, Commander Etuk acknowledged the complaints. He appealed for mutual respect and a better understanding between motorists and FRSC personnel, reiterating that both are partners in ensuring safer roads for everyone.