EOCO Targets Honda CR-Vs, Range Rovers, and Two More in Stolen Vehicle Crackdown
The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has identified Honda CR-Vs, Ford F-150 pickups, Range Rovers, and Dodge models as the leading vehicle brands under scrutiny in its recent crackdown on stolen cars being trafficked into Ghana.
Interpol has previously labeled Ghana as a profitable center for vehicles stolen primarily from Canada and the United States. EOCO’s investigations reveal that these four brands represent the majority of cases intercepted in recent months.
During an appearance on Upfront with Blessed Sogah, Leo Anthony Siamah, the Head of EOCO’s Legal Unit, advised potential buyers to exercise heightened caution when considering these models.
“There are specific types of vehicles that raise suspicion. For example, the Honda CR-V series, the Ford F-150, the Range Rover, and I believe the Dodge Ram. These four brands are notably prevalent in the number of stolen vehicles we recover. Most of the cases involve these vehicles. Therefore, if you plan to buy one of these models, it should serve as a warning sign for you,” he stated.
Mr. Siamah further cautioned potential car buyers to be wary of vehicles that seem “too new and accident-free” in the Ghanaian market, particularly the 2023 and 2024 models. He pointed out that while the market has typically included salvaged or accident-damaged vehicles, the sudden influx of pristine newer models should raise concerns and warrant additional scrutiny. “If you look at one of those vehicles that was recently released, maybe a 2023 model, 2024 model, which is accident-free, it should be a red flag for you. That should point you to doing extra for instance, go to Interpol to find out whether or not that car’s status is stolen,” he advised.
He noted that while Honda CR-Vs, Range Rovers, and others top the list, EOCO’s operations extend to other brands as well.
“Would you go after a Toyota Corolla, for instance? Yes. We’ve gone after a couple of Toyota Highlanders and Honda Accords. So, it’s not like we have a preference,” he clarified.
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