The Western Regional Marine Police Command is coordinating a multi-agency search for a missing fishing canoe, Second Chance, and its seven crew members after the vessel failed to return from a fishing expedition off Axim.
The search involves the Ghana Navy, Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA), Fisheries Commission, relevant coastal police stations and fishing communities along the coast.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, and signed by Chief Superintendent of Police Olivia Et Adiku, Head of the Western Regional Police Public Affairs Unit, the Police said the canoe’s owner, Nana Kweku Atta, reported its disappearance at the Fishing Harbour Police Station in Sekondi on October 18.
According to the report, Second Chance departed Sekondi Fishing Harbour on October 9 for a fishing expedition off Axim but had not returned.
Possible Engine Failure
Preliminary investigations indicate that repeated attempts to contact the seven crew members have been unsuccessful.
A subsequent update suggested that the canoe might have suffered engine failure and drifted towards Tema and the Volta coast. However, authorities have yet to establish the vessel’s last known position, leaving uncertainty over its whereabouts.
The Western Naval Command, GMA, Fisheries Commission, relevant coastal police stations and chief fishermen have been alerted to support the search. The Eastern Naval Command in Tema has also been notified to assist in efforts to locate the missing canoe and its crew.
The Marine Police Command said it was working with the relevant agencies to establish the vessel’s last known position and determine its location.
Public Urged to Assist Search
Fishing communities along the coast have been urged to report any sightings or information that could help locate Second Chance and its crew to the nearest police station.
Authorities have also appealed to fishermen, coastal residents and members of the public to share credible information that could assist the search.
The seven crew members remain unaccounted for as the multi-agency operation continues.
