In a significant move to curb the growing menace of vehicle theft and smuggling, the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service has launched a specialized task force aimed at identifying and impounding stolen vehicles smuggled into the country. The initiative underscores the department's commitment to tackling transnational vehicle theft syndicates and safeguarding Ghana's automotive industry from illegal activities.
The announcement was made by COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, the Director-General of the CID, during a press briefing held on Monday, August 4. Addressing the media, COP Donkor emphasized that this proactive measure is part of a renewed strategy designed to disrupt organized crime networks involved in vehicle theft across borders.
Formation of a Special Task Force
“To further boost the fight against vehicle crime, a special task force has been set up by the CID administration to conduct intelligence-based operations and impound suspected stolen vehicles brought into the country,” COP Donkor stated.
The task force has already made notable progress, seizing six vehicles believed to have been stolen from Canada. Among the impounded cars are four Toyota models, a Toyota RAV4, and a Range Rover. Investigations are currently underway to trace how these vehicles were smuggled into Ghana and to identify those responsible for the illegal trade.
Modus Operandi of Vehicle Theft Syndicates
Preliminary findings from CID investigations reveal that criminal groups involved in these operations have been exploiting international car rental systems to execute their schemes. According to intelligence reports, syndicates use forged identities to rent vehicles abroad, which are then clandestinely shipped out of their countries of origin while rental agreements remain active. This method not only conceals the theft but also complicates efforts to track the vehicles.
COP Donkor further highlighted that the choice of vehicle brands and models appears to be a deliberate attempt to obscure the origins of these stolen cars. This tactic makes it more challenging for authorities to trace the vehicles back to their rightful owners.
Appeal to Vehicle Dealers and Buyers
In light of these developments, the CID is urging vehicle dealers, importers, and prospective buyers to exercise caution and conduct thorough verification before purchasing or registering any vehicles. The department has emphasized the importance of due diligence in ensuring that vehicles are legally acquired and free from any criminal ties.
Collaboration with International Agencies
To dismantle the networks facilitating this illegal trade, the CID is working closely with international security agencies. Authorities have assured the public that efforts are underway to prevent Ghana from becoming a safe haven for trafficked vehicles. This collaboration is expected to bolster cross-border operations and enhance intelligence-sharing mechanisms.
Broader Success in Recovering Stolen Vehicles
In a related development, COP Donkor revealed that between January and July 2025, the police successfully retrieved 43 luxury vehicles as part of ongoing cross-border operations. These high-end cars, including Rolls-Royce, Porsche, BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz models, were traced back to Europe and North America. Their recovery demonstrates the effectiveness of international cooperation in combating vehicle-related crime.
Conclusion
The CID's intensified crackdown on vehicle theft syndicates marks an important step in addressing transnational crime and protecting Ghana's automotive market. With the formation of a dedicated task force and collaboration with global security agencies, authorities are sending a strong message that Ghana will not tolerate illegal activities involving stolen vehicles.
As investigations continue, the public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to vehicle sales or imports. The CID's efforts serve as a reminder that combating organized crime requires collective action and unwavering commitment from all stakeholders.
-Adomonline
Curated by Tetteh Belinda| GhanaCrimes
