National Sand, Stone and Tipper Drivers Oppose 70% Increase In Sand And Gravel Loading Charges

The National Sand and Stone and Tipper Drivers Association (NSSTD) has strongly opposed a proposed 70% increase in sand and gravel loading charges by the NASSTTU Sand Winners.

In a communique dated September 11, 2026, and issued for immediate release, the association described the increment as unfair and arbitrary.

According to the NSSTD, it was agreed at a previous meeting attended by representatives of the Ghana Police Service, National Security and the Minerals Commission, that in the spirit of cooperation and mutual understanding, any proposed increase should first be discussed at a round-table meeting involving all relevant stakeholders. The meeting reached a verbal understanding among the parties.

The association said it is therefore calling on relevant authorities to intervene swiftly to prevent the situation from escalating.

The NSSTD also expressed deep concern over reports that some of its members have allegedly been assaulted and harassed by NAIMOS officers while performing their lawful duties.

It called on the Minerals Commission to conduct a thorough audit and review of the pricing structure being imposed by NASSTTU Sand Winners to protect the public from excessive charges.

The association stressed that it remains committed to protecting the rights and interests of its members, customers and end users, and will continue to pursue all lawful and peaceful avenues to challenge what it considers unfair treatment, unjustified increases, intimidation and harassment of tipper truck drivers.

*Demands*

The NSSTD is respectfully calling on the appropriate authorities to:

- Suspend and review the proposed 70% increase in sand and gravel loading charges.

- Investigate reports of assault, intimidation and harassment of tipper truck drivers.

- Conduct an audit of the pricing structure imposed by NASSTTU Sand Winners.

- Ensure all charges imposed on truck drivers and customers are lawful, transparent and reasonable.

- Take appropriate measures to prevent unlawful harassment and extortion of tipper truck drivers.

- Ensure all stakeholders return to the round-table discussion process to resolve the matter peacefully and fairly.