The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture has confirmed the safe rescue of 71 Ghanaian fishermen who were attacked and held at sea by pirates.
In a press statement issued on Friday, the Ministry said it had taken note of recent pirate attacks targeting Ghanaian fishermen and expressed concern over the incidents.
It said all seventy-one fishermen involved in the latest attack had been rescued safely.
The Ministry commended the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ghana Navy and the Office of the President for what it described as a swift and coordinated response that led to the successful operation.
It also acknowledged the role played by the Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya West, Gizella Tetteh-Agbotui, noting that her engagement with affected fishing communities and state institutions supported efforts that led to the rescue.
The Ministry reiterated government’s commitment to safeguarding fishermen and securing the country’s territorial waters.
It pointed to the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025, which strengthens enforcement, monitoring and safety measures within the sector.
According to the statement, additional steps are being implemented. These include improved registration and licensing of fishing canoes, the introduction of GPS tracking and long-range communication systems for artisanal vessels, and the rollout of insurance and pension schemes for fishermen.
“Government is also working to enhance naval patrol capacity to improve surveillance, deterrence and rapid response at sea” it added
It described fisheries as central to food supply, jobs and stability in coastal areas, and said government will continue efforts to keep Ghana’s waters secure.
The Ministry urged fishing communities to remain alert and to report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.
Irene Wirekoaa Osei, ISD
