The Western Naval Command (WNC) has seized eight unregistered boats allegedly used for illegal fuel bunkering at Poase and New Takoradi, in a strong effort to enforce maritime laws and tackle unlawful activities along Ghana’s coastline.
The operation, dubbed “Operation Don’t Complain,” was executed by naval personnel after intelligence revealed that some unregistered boats in the Poase area were being used for illegal bunkering.
The exercise was carried out in line with Sections 53 and 54 of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, Act 1146, which mandates that anyone intending to construct a fishing vessel must first secure a permit from the Fisheries Commission. This law provides the legal basis for regulating and monitoring all vessels operating within Ghana’s waters.
According to naval officials, the confiscated boats were built and operated without the necessary permits, making them illegal under the Act. The eight vessels, suspected to have been used for illicit activities, were subsequently impounded and transported to the naval base.
To ensure transparency and enhance collaboration among agencies, the Western Naval Command invited key maritime stakeholders to inspect the seized boats. These included representatives from the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA), the Maritime Police Unit, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), and the Fisheries Commission.
The Western Regional Director of the Fisheries Commission, Dr. Charles Teye, advised local fishermen on the proper procedures for preparing fishing vessels. He noted that the seized boats did not qualify as fishing canoes since they lacked fishing equipment. As such, he suggested they were likely not intended for fishing, leaving it to maritime authorities to determine their actual use.
He further urged fisherfolk to consult the Fisheries Commission before constructing any fishing vessel and to seek guidance from maritime authorities if the vessel is intended for other purposes, to ensure proper authorization is obtained.
Hudeen Said Ahmed, Acting Branch Head of the Ghana Maritime Authority in Takoradi, described the seized boats as “floating objects” that must be registered. He explained that authorities are increasingly concerned about illegal bunkering and now treat unidentified vessels with suspicion, given the growing threat such activities pose to the economy, marine environment, and livelihoods.
The Western Naval Command reaffirmed its dedication to enforcing maritime regulations and collaborating with relevant agencies to combat illegal activities and protect Ghana’s marine resources. It also assured the public that such operations will continue to ensure adherence to maritime laws and the safety of the country’s waters.
