DVLA Gives Two-Week Ultimatum to Register Excavators or Face Confiscation
The government has issued a firm directive requiring all owners and operators of excavators to register their equipment with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) within two weeks. Failure to comply will result in the confiscation of unregistered machinery starting June 1, 2025.
The Chief Executive Officer of the DVLA, Julius Neequaye Kotey, announced the directive, emphasizing the importance of identifying and tracking all excavators and similar heavy equipment in the country. He explained that the move aims to regulate their operations and curb the growing issue of unregistered machines, many of which are being used in illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey.
“This registration exercise is essential for monitoring the ownership and operations of all such equipment entering the country,” Mr. Kotey stated. “It will enhance traceability and support the government’s broader efforts to combat illegal mining.”
Mr. Kotey highlighted that the DVLA’s authority to register such machinery is backed by Section 38 of the Road Traffic Act, 2004 (Act 683), which mandates the registration of all motor vehicles and trailers. He expressed concern over the widespread use of unregistered excavators and farm machinery, particularly in mining areas, where enforcement has been weak.
“The law is clear—no person is permitted to own or operate a motor vehicle or trailer unless it is duly registered. Yet, we have observed that many excavators and farm equipment are in use without proper documentation,” he said.
He assured the public that the DVLA’s 34 offices across the country are fully equipped to handle the registration process within the stipulated time frame.
“The DVLA is fully prepared to meet this deadline. We are committed to enforcing this mandate and will not hesitate to confiscate any unregistered excavator or farm equipment after the two-week window,” Mr. Kotey warned.
The directive forms part of an inter-agency initiative aimed at strengthening regulation and fighting environmental degradation linked to illegal mining operations.
