Union Confronts the Stolen Vehicle Menace
The stolen vehicle menace has become a major concern in Ghana’s automobile industry, prompting the Vehicle and Assets Dealers Union of Ghana (VADUG) to issue a strong public statement. Led by President General Mr. Bernard Ntrekwah, the Union has disassociated itself from individuals accused of importing or selling stolen vehicles and has pledged full cooperation with law enforcement agencies to end the problem.
According to VADUG, these allegations are both “false and damaging” to legitimate car dealers who uphold ethical business practices.
The Rise of the Stolen Vehicle Menace in Ghana
The stolen vehicle menace in Ghana has evolved over the past decade, fuelled by transnational criminal networks that exploit weak port surveillance and import loopholes. These syndicates smuggle stolen cars, often from Europe and neighboring African countries, disguising them with falsified documents.
In recent years, security agencies such as INTERPOL Ghana and the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) have intercepted several vehicles traced to theft syndicates abroad. The trend undermines confidence in the second-hand car market and deprives the government of valuable revenue.
VADUG’s Position: Upholding Ethics in the Auto Industry
In a press release dated August 25, 2025, VADUG reaffirmed its dedication to transparency and lawful conduct within the vehicle trade. The Union made it clear that it has no ties to any individual or garage involved in the stolen vehicle menace, calling the illicit trade a national embarrassment.
“We disassociate ourselves from any person or garage found culpable of this global menace. We assure the authorities of our utmost cooperation,”
— Mr. Bernard Ntrekwah, President General, VADUG.
The Union also stressed that the situation threatens not only the credibility of dealers but Ghana’s image as a safe automotive destination.
Border Vigilance: Key to Ending the Stolen Vehicle Menace
VADUG has appealed to officers at Ghana’s ports and border checkpoints to act with “extreme professionalism” in preventing stolen vehicles from entering the country. Preventing these vehicles from passing through customs, the Union emphasized, is crucial to stopping the stolen vehicle menace and rebuilding consumer confidence.
Officials at Tema Port and Aflao Border have since been urged to integrate VIN tracking systems, advanced scanning technologies, and real-time data sharing with international databases to detect smuggled or altered cars before they reach local markets.
Analysis: Economic and Social Cost of the Menace
Experts say the stolen vehicle menace has far-reaching effects on Ghana’s economy and national security. Illegal car imports distort the market by creating unfair competition for legitimate dealers and undermine revenue collection through tax evasion.
Socially, unsuspecting buyers risk losing their vehicles after police verifications expose fraudulent ownership histories. Security analysts warn that some of these vehicles are later used for criminal operations, intensifying public safety concerns.
Public and Institutional Reactions
The Ghana Police Service and Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) have commended VADUG’s position, calling it an act of industry leadership. Civil society organizations such as the Centre for Trade Integrity (CTI) have urged authorities to intensify enforcement and introduce a comprehensive vehicle import tracking system.
Car buyers and transport unions also welcomed the Union’s response, saying it restores confidence in the industry and encourages responsible trading practices.
Broader Impact: Ghana’s Automotive Image at Stake
Globally, the trade in stolen vehicles is a billion-dollar enterprise. Ghana, as a key hub for used-car imports in West Africa, faces the risk of becoming a destination for this illicit trade. The stolen vehicle menace could undermine the government’s Automotive Development Policy, which aims to attract global car manufacturers such as Toyota and Volkswagen to set up local assembly plants.
To maintain investor confidence, experts urge stronger regulation, transparent data systems, and cross-border collaboration with international enforcement agencies.
Path Forward: Collaboration and Public Education
VADUG has pledged to work with the Customs Division, DVLA, and INTERPOL Ghana to raise public awareness about the stolen vehicle menace and educate consumers on proper car verification procedures. The Union is also advocating for national reforms that integrate vehicle import, registration, and verification systems to block illegal entries.
“We are ready for national collaboration and public education to ensure best practices in the automobile industry,”
— VADUG Statement, August 2025.
Ending the Stolen Vehicle Menace Together
The stolen vehicle menace remains a serious challenge, but Ghana’s united response—led by VADUG and supported by enforcement agencies—marks a hopeful turning point. Through transparency, technology, and collaboration, the country can protect its reputation, strengthen the automobile industry, and restore public trust.
Internal Links (GSN)
- Interpol Cybercrime Crackdown Africa
- Stop Foreign Currency Cash Restrictions
- Africa Correct The Map Campaign
