In a remarkable demonstration of international collaboration, the Ghana Police Service has successfully recovered 10 stolen vehicles trafficked into the country from the Netherlands. The operation, conducted in partnership with the Netherlands Embassy and international security firm Digitpol, underscores the critical role of cross-border cooperation in combating transnational crimes.
The announcement was made by COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), during a press conference held on Saturday, September 20, 2025. She highlighted the success of the joint operation and its significance in addressing vehicle trafficking.
“Recently, the Police collaborated with the Netherlands Embassy and Digitpol, a security company that works closely with the Netherlands Police, to track and recover stolen vehicles trafficked into Ghana,” COP Donkor stated.
Details of the Operation
The operation, which took place between September 15th and 17th, led to the recovery of 10 vehicles. Among them were eight Toyota RAV4s and two Toyota CH-Rs, all reported stolen from the Netherlands. These vehicles were traced to various locations in Accra, including Kantamanto, Nima, and Cantonments.
“This successful recovery operation demonstrates the importance of international cooperation in addressing transnational crimes such as vehicle trafficking,” COP Donkor emphasized. “These operations highlight the importance of international cooperation in fighting vehicle-related crimes.”
A Call for Vigilance Among Vehicle Buyers
In light of these developments, the Ghana Police Service has issued an advisory to the public regarding vehicle purchases, particularly second-hand imports. Prospective buyers are strongly encouraged to exercise caution and verify ownership details before finalizing any transactions.
“Prospective buyers are strongly advised to demand proof of ownership from the country of origin. Vehicle details can also be verified with INTERPOL Accra before finalising any purchase,” COP Donkor warned.
This advisory is especially pertinent given the increasing prevalence of vehicle trafficking across borders. By taking these precautions, buyers can minimize their risk of inadvertently purchasing stolen vehicles.
Strengthening International Partnerships
The successful recovery operation marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s efforts to combat transnational crimes. It also reaffirms the commitment of the Ghana Police Service to protecting citizens from falling victim to such activities.
The Police assured the public that efforts to collaborate with international partners would be intensified. “We remain steadfast in our resolve to protect the public and will continue to work closely with our international counterparts to combat these crimes,” COP Donkor concluded.
Conclusion
The recovery of these stolen vehicles serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and international cooperation in addressing complex criminal networks. As globalization continues to facilitate both legitimate trade and illicit activities, partnerships between nations and security organizations will become increasingly vital.
The Ghana Police Service’s efforts in this case not only highlight their dedication to upholding law and order but also set a precedent for future collaborations in combating transnational crime. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed and take proactive measures when purchasing vehicles, ensuring that their transactions are lawful and secure.
-Citinewsroom
Curated by Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
