DVLA seizes 40 vehicles at Tema Harbour over fake DP stickers

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has impounded 40 vehicles at the Tema Harbour following an intelligence-led operation that uncovered the use of fraudulent Drive from Port (DP) stickers.

In a statement issued on April 17, 2026, the DVLA also revealed that some genuine stickers had been found affixed to vehicles with mismatched records.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the affected vehicles were imported into Ghana by CFAO. However, the Authority said evidence suggests that an agent engaged to clear the vehicles on behalf of the company allegedly employed illegal methods, leading to the discrepancies detected.

The DVLA explained that the introduction of DP stickers formed part of reforms aimed at addressing revenue leakages associated with the previous aluminium DP plate system.

Following the reform, the Authority recorded a sharp increase in DP sticker issuance, rising from an average of 2,000 per month to approximately 15,000 in October 2025. But in recent months, a noticeable decline in issuance volumes at the ports triggered further investigations, culminating in the latest operation.

The DVLA said it is collaborating with National Security to probe the matter and intensify efforts to clamp down on fraudulent practices within the vehicle importation and registration chain.

The Authority underscored the importance of maintaining accurate vehicle data to ensure road safety, enhance traceability, and support effective transport policy decisions, noting that data integrity from the point of entry to final registration remains critical.

It urged all vehicle importers and stakeholders to exercise due diligence and adhere strictly to established procedures.

The DVLA reaffirmed its commitment, alongside National Security, to safeguarding the integrity of Ghana’s vehicle administration system and preventing further abuses within the sector.