The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority says it has uncovered a criminal network responsible for producing and distributing more than 30,000 counterfeit DV number plates across the country.
At a press conference on March 10, Chief Executive Julius Neequaye Kotey said the illegal operation has an estimated street value of more than GH¢12.51 million and costs the state about GH¢20 million each year in lost revenue.
According to him, five suspects linked to the network have been arrested and are currently on remand. They are expected to reappear in court on March 17, 2026. Two additional suspects remain at large and are being pursued by national security agencies.
Mr. Kotey described the scheme as a serious threat to the country’s vehicle registration system.
“This is a criminal enterprise that threatens national security, undermines law enforcement, and deprives the state of legitimate revenue,” he said.
Authorities also revealed that the fake DV plates were often issued with forged documentation, including counterfeit insurance certificates and fake vehicle logbooks. Officials warn that motorists who unknowingly purchase such plates may be left without protection in the event of accidents.
The DVLA says it has restricted the issuance of DV plates for 2026 as part of efforts to enforce Regulation 23 of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180). Under the regulation, DV plates are meant strictly for motor traders, fleet owners and licensed trade plate dealers to move unregistered vehicles for limited purposes such as testing, repairs or delivery.
Each officially issued DV plate currently costs GH¢417.25.
Deputy Chief Executive Foster Akwasi Asante warned individuals involved in the illegal trade to desist or face arrest.
“I would admonish anyone nurturing the idea of engaging in the sale of illegal plates to pause and reconsider. Security operatives are pursuing those involved and they will be exposed,” he said.
Mr. Kotey also announced that the authority plans to introduce RFID-embedded number plates to allow electronic verification of vehicle registration details and help detect fake plates.
The DVLA further revealed plans to open five new offices within the next two weeks to improve public access to its services across the country.
