The Chief Executive Officer of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority, Julius Neequaye Kotey, has disclosed that the Authority, working together with National Security, has uncovered a well-organised criminal network in Lapaz involved in the production and distribution of counterfeit DV number plates.
Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, Kotey said the group has been manufacturing fake DV plates and supplying them to various parts of the country, including Kumasi and Tarkwa.
According to the DVLA boss, investigations carried out over the past two weeks revealed that more than 30,000 counterfeit DV plates have already been introduced into circulation.
He explained that the illegal operation has generated an estimated GH¢12,510,000 for the syndicate through the sale of the fake number plates.
“Our investigations reveal that over 30,000 fake DV plates have been illegally introduced into the system. Based on the official DV plate cost of GH¢417.25, the estimated street value of these fake plates currently in circulation exceeds GH¢12,510,000,” Kotey stated.
Kotey noted that the activities of the criminal network not only deprive the DVLA of revenue but also undermine regulatory controls and pose a serious threat to national security.
He added that the Authority records annual losses exceeding GH¢20,000 due to the illegal manufacturing and sale of counterfeit plates.
As part of the ongoing crackdown, five suspects have been arrested and are expected to appear before court on March 17, 2026.
Authorities have also identified two additional suspects who are expected to be arrested and prosecuted as investigations continue.
The DVLA has assured the public that it will intensify efforts with security agencies to dismantle the network and prevent further circulation of fake vehicle registration plates.