The Ghana Industrial Trawlers Association (GITA) has called for urgent improvements in maritime security following an armed attack on more than 70 canoe fishermen off the coast of Senya Bereku in the Central Region.
In a statement dated 27 February 2026, GITA expressed sympathy to the victims, their families and the Ghana National Canoe Fishermen Council after gunmen reportedly fired warning shots, seized outboard motors and other equipment, and left the fishermen stranded at sea. The victims were later rescued by security forces.
The association commended the swift response of the Ghana Navy, Ghana Air Force, Marine Police, the Fisheries Enforcement Unit and other authorities for ensuring the safe return of the fishermen.
Growing Security Concerns
GITA warned that the incident highlights broader security gaps in Ghana’s waters, noting that if canoe fleets can be attacked, industrial vessels operating offshore may also be at risk. The group referenced past piracy and robbery incidents within Ghana’s Exclusive Economic Zone and the Gulf of Guinea.
While acknowledging the recent passage of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025 (Act 1146), which extends the Inshore Exclusive Zone to 12 nautical miles, GITA stressed that regulatory reforms must be matched with stronger enforcement and surveillance.
Call for Coordinated Action
The association urged enhanced collaboration among the Ghana Navy, Marine Police, Fisheries Enforcement Unit, Ghana Maritime Authority, Fisheries Commission and National Security to improve patrols and rapid response at sea.
GITA concluded by reaffirming its commitment to working with stakeholders to restore safety and protect livelihoods, insisting that insecurity in Ghana’s waters must not become normalised.
