Dozens of fishermen have been rescued after armed assailants attacked their boats off the coast of Ghana’s Central Region, leaving crews stranded at sea without engines or supplies.
Authorities and local leaders confirmed that at least 59 fishermen were safely brought ashore following the raid, which witnesses described as a coordinated strike by unidentified men operating a “black boat.” The attack occurred late Wednesday night near Senya Bereku, roughly 35 nautical miles offshore. The assailants reportedly seized outboard motors and other equipment, immobilizing several vessels.
Initial reports indicated that 22 fishermen from two boats were rescued after colleagues towed them back to land. Videos from the landing site showed jubilant scenes as families and community members welcomed the survivors, pouring white powder over them in a traditional gesture of thanksgiving.
The Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya West, Gizella Tetteh, said additional rescue teams were dispatched to retrieve crews still stranded. Canoe owners in Senya Bereku mobilized four boats to tow the disabled vessels back to shore.
The incident has heightened concerns about maritime security along Ghana’s coastline, where fishermen already face risks from storms and tidal waves. In September 2023, a separate disaster in Ada left one fisherman dead and three missing after strong waves capsized two boats carrying 19 men. Fifteen were rescued alive.
