GMA Refutes Reports of Fatalities in Elmina Fishing Harbour Accident
By: Solomon Nartey Tetteh
The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has dismissed reports claiming that eight people died in a marine accident at the Elmina Fishing Harbour on Monday, August 18.
In a statement issued on Thursday August 21, 2025, the Authority clarified that all 27 crew members and fishers on board the vessel are safe and accounted for.
“Contrary to claims circulating in sections of the media and on social platforms, there were no fatalities. Reports alleging the loss of eight lives are entirely false,” the statement read.
The caretaker of the canoe, Edward Essien, confirmed to the GMA’s Elmina Office that he and all others on board escaped unhurt.
Preliminary investigations by the Authority revealed that the wooden fishing canoe, with registration number CR 338EL, collided with the sea defence structure at the harbour entrance shortly after setting off around 2:36 p.m. on Monday.
All crew members managed to swim safely to shore, sustaining only minor bruises. However, the vessel later sank while being towed by its owners, resulting in the loss of fishing gear. By Thursday morning, recovery efforts were underway, with a crane engaged to lift the wreck.
Initial accounts suggest that operator error linked to speeding caused the vessel to lose control. Investigations are ongoing into the causes of the collision, operator licensing, compliance with harbour speed limits, and broader safety practices.
The GMA cautioned the public against spreading unverified information that could cause unnecessary fear and distress.
“Once again, we emphasise: all 27 crew members and fishers are safe, and reports of fatalities are false,” the statement reiterated.
The Authority assured the public of its continued commitment to safeguarding lives and promoting safe maritime activities within Ghana’s waters
