The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has issued a strong warning to motorists nationwide to avoid using fake Dealer Vehicle (DV) number plates, as doing so risks having their vehicles impounded.
The caution comes after authorities uncovered a large network involved in the production and distribution of fake DV plates on Ghana’s roads.
According to the DVLA, the illegal plates are being used by some motorists to avoid proper vehicle registration, a situation the Authority says is creating serious security concerns.
Speaking on the matter, the DVLA’s Head of Corporate Affairs, Stephen Attuh, warned that drivers caught with fake DV plates will face serious consequences.
“Anyone found using fake DV plates should know that their vehicle can be impounded immediately, and they may face prosecution,” he cautioned.
Mr. Attuh explained that genuine DV plates come with special security features that allow the DVLA and law enforcement agencies to verify their authenticity.
“The new DV plates we issue come with QR codes that can be scanned to confirm whether the plate was issued by the DVLA. Some of the fake ones even carry QR codes, but when scanned they link to completely different foreign databases,” he revealed.
DV plates are special number plates issued to licensed car dealers and are meant to be used temporarily when vehicles are being tested or transported before full registration.
However, authorities say some individuals have taken advantage of the system by producing counterfeit plates and selling them illegally to drivers.
Security agencies have already arrested several suspects believed to be involved in the manufacturing and distribution of the fake plates, while investigations continue to track down others connected to the scheme.
The DVLA has also warned the public to stay away from middlemen, commonly known as “goro boys,” who operate around licensing offices and often help people obtain fraudulent documents.
“We advise the public to deal directly with the DVLA when registering their vehicles. Avoid the goro boys because most of these illegal activities are carried out through them,” Mr. Attuh added.
The Authority says the ongoing crackdown forms part of efforts to protect the integrity of Ghana’s vehicle registration system and improve road safety.
Motorists have therefore been encouraged to ensure that their vehicles carry only genuine DVLA-issued number plates to avoid running into trouble with the law.
