Ghana’s military forces launched an emergency rescue mission Thursday morning after armed attackers targeted four fishing vessels in coastal waters, according to statements from the country’s armed forces and local officials.
All 71 crew members aboard the fishing boats survived the early morning assault, though the attackers made off with valuable equipment from their vessels. The incident occurred in waters off Ghana’s central coastline as the fishermen were returning from their overnight fishing expedition.
Local lawmaker Gizella Tetteh, who participated in the rescue efforts, spoke with survivors about the harrowing experience. “They had gone out for their usual fishing activity — heading out to sea and returning in the early hours of the morning with their catch,” Tetteh, who represents the Awutu Senya West Constituency, explained. “The robbers stole all their outboard motors and generators.”
Ghana’s military coordinated the search and rescue response using both naval vessels and aircraft. Officials indicated they would provide additional information as their investigation continues, while urging the public to remain calm during the ongoing operation.
The attack highlights ongoing security concerns in the Gulf of Guinea, the body of water along Ghana’s southern border. International maritime security experts have consistently identified these waters as among the most dangerous globally for piracy and armed robbery at sea.
