Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson has announced that efforts are underway to safely return seven Ghanaian fishermen aboard the missing fishing canoe Second Chance after their location was established within Togo’s territorial waters.
Speaking in an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Eyewitness News on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, Mr Nelson said Ghanaian authorities had established contact with the crew and were working with Togolese officials to facilitate their safe return.
He disclosed that the Togolese Navy had been informed about the situation and was involved in efforts to ensure the fishermen returned safely to Ghana.
Ghana and Togo Coordinate Rescue Efforts
The search and rescue operation began on Monday, October 19, after authorities received reports late on Sunday, October 18, that the fishermen were missing.
The Western Regional Marine Police Command is coordinating the operation in collaboration with the Ghana Navy, Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA), Fisheries Commission, coastal police stations and local fishing communities.
The canoe’s owner, Nana Kweku Atta, reportedly lodged a complaint at the Fishing Harbour Police Station in Sekondi after the vessel failed to return from its fishing expedition.
According to preliminary information, the Second Chance departed Sekondi Fishing Harbour on Friday, October 9, for fishing activities offshore Axim. However, the seven crew members could not be reached despite repeated attempts to contact them.
Engine Failure Suspected in Missing Fishermen Case
Initial reports suggest that the fishing canoe may have experienced engine failure while at sea, potentially causing it to drift away from its intended fishing grounds.
The vessel was believed to have drifted towards Tema and the Volta coast before its location was established within Togo’s territorial waters.
Authorities are continuing to coordinate with their Togolese counterparts to ensure the safe return of the fishermen.
The development has drawn attention to the dangers faced by Ghanaian fishermen during offshore fishing expeditions and the importance of effective maritime surveillance and cross-border cooperation in search and rescue operations.
Source: newsthemegh.com