The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has impounded 40 vehicles at Tema Harbour following the discovery of fake and improperly applied Drive from Port (DP) stickers.
The operation, carried out based on intelligence, revealed that some vehicles were fitted with fraudulent DP stickers, while others bore genuine stickers that did not correspond with official records.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the vehicles were imported into Ghana by CFAO. However, authorities say the irregularities appear to have occurred during the clearing process. According to the DVLA, available evidence suggests that an agent engaged to clear the vehicles on behalf of the company used illegal methods, resulting in the discrepancies identified.
The DP sticker system was introduced by the DVLA to replace the former aluminium DP plate system as part of measures to curb revenue losses. The reform initially led to a significant increase in usage, with issuance rising from an average of 2,000 stickers per month to approximately 15,000 in October 2025.
In recent months, however, officials observed a decline in the number of stickers issued at the ports. This trend raised concerns and prompted further investigations, culminating in the latest enforcement operation at Tema Harbour.
The DVLA has indicated that it is working in collaboration with National Security to investigate the matter and address fraudulent practices within the vehicle importation and registration system.
The Authority emphasised the importance of maintaining accurate vehicle records, noting that data integrity is essential for ensuring road safety, enhancing traceability, and supporting effective transport policy implementation. It added that safeguarding data accuracy from the point of entry to final registration remains a key priority.
The DVLA has urged vehicle importers and industry stakeholders to comply with regulatory requirements and undertake proper due diligence. It reaffirmed its commitment, in collaboration with National Security, to protecting the integrity of Ghana’s vehicle administration system.
