The Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), COP Lydia Donkor, has announced the successful recovery of 10 stolen vehicles from the Netherlands, tracked down in Ghana between September 15 and 17, 2025.
Speaking at a press briefing in Accra today, COP Donkor revealed that the recovered vehicles included eight (8) Toyota RAV4s and two (2) Toyota CH-Rs, all of which were reported stolen from the Netherlands and subsequently smuggled into Ghana.
The vehicles were located and seized in various parts of Accra, including Kantamanto, Nima, and Cantonments.
“This operation is a significant step in our efforts to combat transnational vehicle theft, which has become an increasing concern not only for Ghana but for our international partners as well,” COP Donkor stated.
The CID’s operation was carried out in collaboration with several national stakeholders — including the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority — and international partners such as the Netherlands Embassy and Digitpol, a private security firm working in close coordination with the Netherlands Police.
According to the CID, vehicle theft is more than just a financial crime. It not only causes substantial economic losses to victims but also undermines Ghana’s international image and often fuels other organised criminal networks.
COP Donkor emphasized the importance of international cooperation in such operations, noting that without the assistance of global partners, tracking and recovering stolen vehicles across borders would be significantly more difficult.
In light of this development, the Police Service has issued a strong advisory to the public, especially prospective vehicle buyers, to exercise caution.
Buyers are urged to request proof of ownership from the country of origin and verify vehicle details with INTERPOL Accra before completing any transaction.
“The Ghana Police Service remains committed to protecting the public from becoming victims of transnational crimes and will continue to work closely with international partners to ensure stolen vehicles do not find safe haven within our borders,” COP Donkor assured.
Investigations are ongoing, and efforts are underway to identify and prosecute individuals or syndicates involved in trafficking the stolen vehicles into Ghana.
