The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has raised alarm over a growing influx of stolen vehicles into Ghana, warning that some popular car brands are increasingly linked to international theft syndicates.
According to EOCO, Honda CR-Vs, Ford F-150s, Range Rovers, and Dodge Rams are the most frequently intercepted vehicles in its anti-car trafficking operations. The revelation follows intensified collaborations with global security bodies, including Interpol, which has flagged Ghana as a rising destination for stolen vehicles, particularly from North America.
“There are certain types of vehicles that are suspicious. The Honda CR-V, Ford F-150, Range Rover, and Dodge Ram are consistently the top four in our recoveries. If you’re purchasing one of these, it should immediately raise concerns,” cautioned Leo Anthony Siamah, Head of EOCO’s Legal Unit, in an interview with JoyNews on August 23.
Mr. Siamah advised prospective car buyers to exercise extra vigilance when dealing with these high-risk brands. He highlighted a troubling trend in which unusually pristine 2023 and 2024 models often without any accident history are appearing on the local market, a pattern inconsistent with Ghana’s typical vehicle import profile.
“If you’re looking at a 2023 or 2024 model that looks brand new and hasn’t been in an accident, you need to pause. That should trigger verification steps such as checking the car’s status with Interpol,” he stressed.
While the spotlight is on the four most intercepted brands, EOCO clarified that its investigations are not limited to them. Other frequently recovered vehicles include Toyota Highlanders, Honda Accords, and Toyota Corollas.
The agency has urged the public to prioritize proper verification processes when purchasing vehicles to avoid falling victim to stolen car syndicates.
