Ghana police arrest two over video of 12-year-old driving heavy truck

The Ghana Police Service has arrested a 12-year-old boy and a 34-year-old man after a video appeared online showing the child driving a heavy-duty truck.

The footage was widely shared on social media and prompted public concern over how a minor had been allowed to take control of such a large vehicle. The incident led to a police investigation.

The 34-year-old suspect is believed to be the driver of a DAF XF 105 articulated truck with registration number GS 3097-20. Both suspects are being held by the Central Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) in Accra, where they are assisting with inquiries.

The Ghana Police Service announced the arrests in a statement published on its official Facebook page on 1 August 2026.

Police said the incident highlighted the dangers of allowing children or other unlicensed people to operate vehicles. They urged parents and guardians to take responsibility for preventing minors from driving, while also warning vehicle owners not to give unauthorised people access to their vehicles.

The warning was particularly directed at heavy-duty trucks, which can pose a serious threat to commuters, pedestrians and other road users when driven by someone without the required licence or experience.

“The Ghana Police Service reminds parents, guardians, and vehicle owners not to permit minors or unlicensed persons to operate motor vehicles, particularly heavy-duty trucks, as such acts endanger lives and violate the Road Traffic Act. The Service urges the public to support efforts to promote road safety by reporting such incidents and ensuring responsible road use,” portions of the statement read.

The police did not provide further details about the circumstances in which the video was recorded or explain whether any charges had been brought against either suspect.

The viral footage had generated strong reactions online, with social media users questioning the supervision of the child and the conduct of the adult believed to have been responsible for the truck.

The arrests follow the police’s call for the public to report incidents involving minors or unlicensed drivers. The service said cooperation from the public was important in efforts to improve road safety and prevent avoidable accidents.

The Ghana Police Service has repeatedly stressed the risks associated with irresponsible vehicle use, particularly on busy roads and highways where heavy trucks share the road with buses, cars, motorbikes and pedestrians.

The investigation remains ongoing while the two suspects remain in MTTD custody in Accra.