.By Chinaza Osigwe
The Director of the Anambra State Special Anti-Touting Squad (SASA), Mr. Chukwuebuka Onwuemene, has reaffirmed the agency’s zero-tolerance stance on illegal revenue collection, warning that there will be no exceptions for anyone involved in touting across the state.
Onwuemene issued the warning on Thursday while addressing journalists in Onitsha after joining a day-long joint patrol involving SASA operatives and the Anambra Vigilante Services (AVS). The patrol targeted known flash points across several communities as part of renewed efforts to rid the roads of illegal toll collectors.
“There are no sacred cows in this operation,” Onwuemene said. “Anyone involved in illegal revenue collection, no matter how highly connected, will face consequences. The law applies to everyone.”
He clarified that the agency’s mission is not to stop all forms of revenue collection but to specifically clamp down on those operating outside the bounds of legality. He acknowledged that some government-licensed revenue agents may be mistaken for touts by the public, urging citizens to verify the legitimacy of collectors before making accusations.
“Our mandate is to eliminate illegal revenue collection,” he explained. “That doesn’t mean everyone collecting levies is a tout. There are those licensed by the government to collect revenue. If you see anyone collecting fees illegally, report them. We will act swiftly.”
Responding to allegations of selective enforcement and brutality—particularly the rumored use of force by the group known as Aka Odo—Onwuemene defended SASA’s methods, stating that the agency operates strictly within legal limits and only takes action based on credible intelligence.
“We do not go around arresting people without cause or invading homes,” he said. “Many of those who claim to be victims have long records of extortion and violence against innocent traders and commuters. If the public knew their full history, they’d be shocked.”
Describing SASA as a necessary force against impunity, Onwuemene likened the agency to “a strong tree by the roadside”—often targeted, but firmly rooted in its mission to protect the people.
The patrol underscores the state government’s commitment to sanitizing revenue collection processes and ensuring that public spaces are safe from harassment and extortion. Residents have been encouraged to cooperate with SASA by reporting illegal activity and verifying the status of revenue agents operating in their areas.
