Concerns have been raised over the alleged use of dispatch riders to transport illicit substances, with an operator in the sector claiming that some riders are approached to deliver unknown packages to various locations.
Speaking with TODAY FM correspondent, Ayibapreye Ogunu, a bike manager with a private dispatch company, Joy Nwigbo, said logistics services are designed to make the movement of goods easier and reduce the inconvenience associated with transportation.
She, however, noted that monitoring dispatch riders can be challenging, particularly because some dispatch motorcycles are not equipped with tracking devices.
According to her, the absence of tracking systems could allow a rider to divert from an assigned delivery without the company immediately becoming aware.
Nwigbo attributed the willingness of some riders to accept questionable deliveries to the large sums of money offered for such services, adding that riders are sometimes approached while on their way to deliver other packages.
On measures to prevent the transportation of unknown substances, she said customers are usually required to disclose and confirm the items they intend to send before a rider accepts a delivery.
She explained that where a rider arrives at the collection point and discovers that the item differs from what was initially declared, the delivery may be rejected unless the customer provides a valid explanation for the change.
Nwigbo further alleged that some dispatch riders caught transporting illicit substances are sometimes able to evade arrest by allegedly paying money to police officers on the road.
She also expressed concern over the absence of a specific regulatory body overseeing dispatch operations, calling for improved monitoring and regulation of the sector.
