A joint investigation by U.S. law enforcement agencies has uncovered an alleged international car theft ring that reportedly shipped stolen vehicles to buyers in the United States and Ghana.
According to a case update shared by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Washington Field Office on X, six individuals have been indicted in connection with the scheme, which is said to have involved the theft of at least 20 vehicles across the Washington metropolitan area and Pennsylvania.
The official statement noted that the vehicles were sold “to buyers in the United States and the African nation of Ghana.”
Authorities allege that the group used electronic devices to reprogram vehicles, allowing them to bypass security systems and accept previously blank key fobs. The stolen vehicles were then transported across state lines, disguised, and sold onward.
The indictment follows a year-long investigation into what officials describe as a D.C.-based auto theft network. Law enforcement agencies also believe the group may be linked to the theft of more than 100 additional vehicles, with further investigations ongoing.
As part of the probe, officers executed a search warrant at a vehicle storage facility in Decatur, Georgia, suspected of being connected to the operation.
The suspects are accused of conspiracy to possess, sell, and transport stolen motor vehicles. One additional suspect remains at large.
Authorities emphasize that an indictment is not proof of guilt, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven otherwise in court.
