The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service has strengthened its collaboration with key private-sector stakeholders to tackle counterfeiting and transnational intellectual property crimes in the country.

The Director-General of the CID, COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, held a meeting with representatives of Apple, Unilever and J.O Global at the CID Headquarters in Accra.

The engagement focused on improving the department’s forensic, investigative and intelligence-sharing capabilities to help identify and disrupt networks involved in the production and distribution of counterfeit goods.

COP Donkor explained that intellectual property crime goes beyond the unauthorised use of trademarks and the sale of fake products. She noted that such activities can form part of wider organised criminal networks operating within Ghana and across international borders.

Counterfeit products pose risks to consumers

The CID Director-General warned that counterfeit goods can create serious risks for consumers, particularly when they involve products used in everyday life.

She explained that fake medicines can endanger lives, counterfeit electrical products can cause fires and injuries, while unsafe cosmetics may expose users to harmful substances.

Beyond the health and safety concerns, counterfeit trade also affects legitimate businesses by undermining their brands, reducing consumer confidence and creating unfair competition.

CID seeks stronger intelligence sharing

COP Donkor stressed that effective investigations into intellectual property crimes require cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the companies whose products and trademarks are being targeted.

She said collaboration with rights holders provides investigators with specialised knowledge, technical expertise and credible intelligence that can support the identification of counterfeit products and the networks behind their distribution.

The CID says it will continue working with regulatory institutions, law enforcement agencies, private companies and international partners to strengthen investigations and disrupt illegal distribution networks.

Protecting businesses and the Ghanaian public

The latest engagement highlights the importance of cooperation between the public and private sectors in tackling organised crime.

For consumers, stronger enforcement could help reduce exposure to fake products that may threaten their health, safety and finances.

For businesses, the fight against counterfeiting is also important in protecting intellectual property rights and maintaining confidence in the Ghanaian market.

The CID has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening partnerships as Ghana works to address the growing challenges associated with counterfeit products and cross-border intellectual property crimes.

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