Accra, Ghana – In a significant breakthrough, the Ghana Police Service’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has recovered 43 high-end luxury vehicles stolen from abroad and smuggled into Ghana between January and July 2025. The recovered vehicles include Rolls-Royce, Audi, Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz models, valued in the millions.
According to COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, Director-General of the CID, the vehicles were stolen from countries across Europe and North America, including the Netherlands, Spain, Belgium, Canada, the USA, Germany, Italy, and France. The CID’s investigation revealed that the vehicles were smuggled into Ghana through a major international crime syndicate.
Key Findings:
– Vehicles Recovered: 43 luxury vehicles, including Rolls-Royce, Audi, Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz
– Countries of Origin: Netherlands, Spain, Belgium, Canada, USA, Germany, Italy, and France
– Repatriation Status:
– 8 vehicles already repatriated
– 10 vehicles awaiting repatriation
– 25 vehicles still under investigation
COP Donkor emphasized that paying customs duties in Ghana does not legitimize the ownership of a stolen vehicle. She urged prospective car buyers to exercise due diligence and demand proof of ownership or purchase from the country of origin.
CID’s Efforts:
The CID has established a special task force to conduct intelligence-led operations targeting stolen vehicles. This task force has already impounded six additional vehicles, including four Toyota Tundras, one Toyota RAV4, and one Range Rover, all linked to thefts in Canada.
The CID’s success in recovering the stolen vehicles is attributed to enhanced collaboration with national and international agencies, including the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, INTERPOL, and the FBI.
Warning to Potential Buyers:
COP Donkor cautioned potential buyers to be vigilant when purchasing imported vehicles, advising them to verify proof of ownership and be wary of suspicious deals. She emphasized that the CID remains committed to fighting organized crime and protecting innocent citizens from falling prey to illicit vehicle transactions.