Speaking at a stakeholder engagement forum in Accra, Mr. Kotey described the situation as a “national security concern” that poses serious risks to law enforcement efforts, vehicle tracking, and road safety.
“This is not a minor issue,” he stressed. “These number plates are finding their way into the hands of criminals, unregistered vehicles, and individuals engaged in illegal activities. We are dealing with a growing underground market that exploits weaknesses in our system.”
The startling figure has prompted calls for tighter controls, digital transformation, and a full audit of the DVLA’s supply chain processes. According to Mr. Kotey, some of the thefts are believed to involve insider collusion, with investigations already underway to root out culprits within the authority.
“The plates don’t vanish into thin air,” he said. “There is a clear pattern, and we suspect that a network of individuals – possibly with access to internal systems – are facilitating these thefts.”
Motorists, transport unions, and civil society groups have reacted with alarm, calling on the government to act swiftly. Several drivers interviewed expressed fear that they could be wrongfully linked to crimes committed using stolen plates.
“I pay all my dues, register my car properly, and yet I could be arrested because someone out there is using my plate number for something shady. That’s scary,” said Kwesi Owusu, a commercial driver in Accra.
To combat the growing menace, the DVLA has announced plans to introduce tamper-proof and digitally tracked number plates as part of a nationwide upgrade. These high-security plates will come embedded with QR codes and RFID chips, allowing instant verification by police and DVLA officers.
“We are working closely with the police and national security to implement a more secure system,” Mr. Kotey assured. “But until then, we urge all vehicle owners to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity.”
The revelation adds to growing pressure on the DVLA to modernize its systems and strengthen internal checks. As digital fraud and identity theft rise across the region, experts say it’s crucial for Ghana’s vehicle licensing authority to be steps ahead of criminal networks.
In the meantime, the DVLA is calling on the public to report anyone offering number plates for sale outside authorized DVLA centers, as the fight against the illicit trade intensifies
Source: Operanews
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