MOTORIST ALLEGES HARASSMENT BY KASTELEA OFFICERS IN KAFANCHAN, CALLS FOR INVESTIGATION. (PHOTO).

 Motorist Alleges Harassment By KASTELEA Officers In Kafanchan, Calls For Investigation

A motorist, Musa Boniface, has called on the Kaduna State Government and relevant authorities to investigate allegations of misconduct by officials of the Kaduna State Traffic and Environmental Law Enforcement Authority (KASTELEA) stationed at the NEPA Roundabout in Kafanchan.

In a public appeal addressed to Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, Boniface recounted an encounter with KASTELEA officers following a recent repair on his vehicle, which had been involved in an accident.

According to him, he was stopped by officers while returning from a wheel alignment service after collecting his vehicle from a panel beater. He stated that after presenting his vehicle documents and driver's licence, which he said were valid, he was instructed to park and informed that he would be penalized for a damaged headlamp allegedly resulting from the accident.

Boniface claimed that despite attempts to explain the circumstances surrounding the vehicle damage, including contacting the panel beater, the officers insisted on issuing a penalty. He further alleged that comments were made suggesting that motorists travelling from Abuja did not respect local authorities.

The motorist said the situation was only resolved after he contacted an individual who knew a senior military officer in Kafanchan. However, he alleged that he still paid ₦5,000 before being allowed to continue his journey.

Boniface also claimed to have witnessed other incidents involving road users at the checkpoint. He alleged that an elderly man and his son transporting clothing items experienced delays, while an okada rider transporting his wife, who was reportedly in labour, was allegedly detained over a faulty indicator light and asked to pay a fine.

He specifically called for an investigation into the conduct of an officer attached to the KASTELEA unit operating at the NEPA Roundabout.

Boniface urged the Kaduna State Government, the leadership of KASTELEA, and other relevant authorities to examine the allegations and ensure that law enforcement officers carry out their duties with professionalism, fairness, and respect for citizens' rights.