The Western Naval Command (WNC) has confiscated eight unregistered boats used for illegal fuel bunkering at Poase and New Takoradi, in a decisive move to enforce maritime regulations and curb illicit activities along Ghana’s coast.
The operation, code-named “Operation Don’t Complain,” was carried out by naval personnel following intelligence reports that unregistered boats were being used for illegal fuel bunkering in the Poase area of New Takoradi.
The exercise was conducted in accordance with Sections 53 and 54 of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, Act 1146, which requires any individual or entity intending to construct a fishing vessel to first obtain a permit from the Fisheries Commission.
The law provides the legal foundation for regulating and monitoring all vessels operating within Ghana’s maritime domain.
Naval authorities explained that the confiscated boats had been constructed and operated without the required permits, rendering them unlawful under the provisions of the Act.
Following the operation, the eight unregistered boats suspected of being used for illegal activities were seized by naval personnel and conveyed to the naval base.
To promote transparency and strengthen inter-agency cooperation, the Western Naval Command invited key maritime stakeholders to inspect the confiscated boats.
These included representatives from, The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA), The Maritime Police Unit, The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) The Fisheries Commission
The Western Regional Director for the Fisheries Commission, Dr. Charles Teye, advised local fisherfolk on proper fishing boat preparations.
He stated: “Upon my arrival here, I realized that this is not a fishing canoe. According to our laws specifically Law 1146 we require that you register and obtain a permit before you can operate.
However, having taken a look at it, it doesn’t appear to be a fishing vessel because there is no fishing equipment on board. Therefore, I do not presume that it is being used for fishing.
This matter then falls into the hands of the maritime authorities to determine what these floating objects are being used for.”
He further advised “We always want to advise our fisherfolk that before constructing any canoe or fishing boat, you must first consult the Fisheries Commission if the purpose is for fishing activities. If it is intended for any other activity, you should consult the maritime authorities to obtain the proper permission before construction begins.”
The Acting Branch Head of the Ghana Maritime Authority in Takoradi, Hudeen Said Ahmed, described the seized vessels as floating objects that must be registered with maritime authorities.
“Once a floating object is found in our waters, we need to interrogate its purpose and what it is meant for. We have realized that there has been an increase in illegal bunkering, so any floating object on our waters is assumed to be used for illegal activities most particularly illegal bunkering, which is on the rise. We are aware of its implications for our economy, our waters, and our livelihoods as well,” he said.
The Western Naval Command reiterated its commitment to enforcing maritime laws and working closely with relevant agencies to combat illegal activities and safeguard the country’s marine resources.
The Command assured the public that such operations would be sustained to ensure full compliance with maritime regulations and to protect Ghana’s maritime domain.
By Ebenezer Atiemo
