Seven Ghanaian fishermen who went missing during a fishing expedition have been found alive after spending nearly two weeks at sea, bringing relief to their families and the fishing community in Sekondi.
The fishermen, who departed from Sekondi Fishing Harbour aboard a canoe named Second Chance on October 9, 2026, were reported missing after contact with them could no longer be established. They had reportedly set out on a fishing expedition off the coast of Axim in the Western Region.
The disappearance prompted a search involving several Ghanaian maritime and security institutions, as well as fishing communities along the coast. The canoe’s owner, Nana Kweku Atta, reportedly lodged a complaint at the Fishing Harbour Police Station in Sekondi on October 18 after repeated attempts to contact the crew proved unsuccessful.
The seven men were later reported to have been rescued by local fishermen in Benin’s territorial waters at about 10 p.m. on Wednesday, October 21.
Preliminary information indicated that the canoe had suffered engine failure while at sea, leaving the crew unable to navigate normally. The vessel reportedly drifted eastwards along the coast towards the waters near Benin or Togo.
The fishermen were said to have run out of essential supplies while stranded. After their rescue, they reportedly received food and water and were confirmed to be safe.
The crew members were identified as Kofi Emmanuel, 32; Uncle Amoah, 45; Kwamena Nkum, 29; Kofi Aboagye, 36; Doboa, 35; Agya Badu, 42; and Kwamena Akyem, 40.
Their discovery brought an end to a period of uncertainty for relatives and colleagues who had feared for their safety after they failed to return as expected.
Following the rescue, the Marine Police, Ghana Navy and maritime authorities in neighbouring countries were reportedly coordinating arrangements for the fishermen’s return to Ghana.
The search effort involved the Marine Police, Ghana Navy, Ghana Maritime Authority, Fisheries Commission and fishing communities that assisted in efforts to locate the missing crew.
The incident has highlighted the risks faced by fishermen who spend extended periods at sea, particularly when mechanical failures occur far from shore. Engine problems can leave fishing vessels vulnerable to strong currents and changing weather conditions, making communication and emergency response arrangements especially important.
The safe discovery of the seven men also underscores the importance of cooperation between coastal communities and maritime authorities across national borders when fishing vessels go missing.
Further official information is needed to confirm the full circumstances of the canoe’s journey, the exact location where the crew was rescued and the final arrangements for their repatriation.
For the families and the Sekondi fishing community, the news that all seven fishermen had been found alive provided welcome relief after days of uncertainty.
Source: Thepressradio.com
