By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

There are indications that the Anambra State Governor, Willie Obiano, may ban the operation of tricycle (Keke NAPEP) in the state following the increasing crime rate.

The recent increase in crime has led to daylight shooting by people suspected to be members of a cult.

News Express gathered that within a week, no fewer than 12 persons were killed in Awka, the state capital, in cult-related activities attributed to Keke NAPEP operators.

Out of the number, one was shot to death at the Kwata area of the state in the afternoon, another at Udoka Estate junction in the early hours of the morning while the location of the killing of the rest is yet to be ascertained.

To this end, the state government on Wednesday held a meeting at the Alex Ekwueme Square with Keke operators in Awka, where it expressed concern over the rising spate of crime in the state perpetrated by tricycle operators.

The Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, said that the “security reports received over the last few weeks indicated that tricycles were also used to commit crime, including kidnapping, shooting, pilfering, among others.

“If you fail to identify the bad eggs among you, the government will have no other alternative but to ban the operation of tricycle in the state,” he said.

A government source also said: “The governor is thinking about banning Keke NAPEP operation in Awka because of security reports linking them with cult activities.”

According to him, the shuttle buses will be provided in their place for commuters.