The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has made significant strides in combating car theft syndicates in Ghana, recovering over 60 stolen vehicles in collaboration with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. These vehicles, valued in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, were part of a larger batch of over 300 suspected stolen cars identified since 2022.
The Scope of the Problem
According to EOCO, the stolen vehicles are primarily high-end models, including Honda CR-Vs, Ford F-150 pickups, Range Rovers, and Dodge vehicles. These luxury cars are often shipped into Ghana and sold to unsuspecting buyers. EOCO’s investigations suggest that the problem may be more extensive, with estimates indicating that up to 10,000 stolen vehicles could be entering Ghana annually.
EOCO’s Efforts
EOCO’s legal officer, Paa Bruce Sam, emphasized that the agency’s operations are intelligence-driven, relying on data analysis to track stolen vehicles rather than random road checks. The agency has cautioned buyers to exercise due diligence when purchasing vehicles, particularly high-end models, and to utilize INTERPOL databases and EOCO verification systems to ensure the vehicle’s legitimacy.
Advice to Car Buyers
Prospective buyers are advised to be cautious when purchasing vehicles that appear too new or accident-free, especially 2023 and 2024 models. EOCO recommends verifying the vehicle’s status with INTERPOL or EOCO before completing transactions.
International Collaboration
The collaboration between EOCO, FBI, and Canadian police has led to significant recoveries, with over 100 luxury vehicles identified as stolen from the US and Canada. This partnership aims to disrupt international criminal organizations involved in vehicle theft and trafficking.