Fishermen Attacked at Sea: All 59 Safely Rescued and Returned to Shore

Fishermen Attacked: All 59 fishermen who were attacked at sea off the Central Region coast have been safely rescued and returned to shore, according to confirmation from Gizella Tetteh-Agbotui, Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya West.

The fishermen were reportedly attacked approximately 35 nautical miles offshore near Senya Bereku in the Awutu Senya District during a night fishing expedition on Thursday, February 26, 2026. The incident caused widespread concern among coastal communities after dozens of fishermen were left stranded at sea following the attack.

Authorities have confirmed that all victims are safe and undergoing medical checks, while investigations into the armed robbery at sea continue.

Safe Return of Fishermen Confirmed

Speaking in an interview with JoyNews, Gizella Tetteh-Agbotui confirmed that all affected fishermen had safely reached shore and were being attended to by officials.

According to the MP, emergency teams including NADMO and security personnel were present to register the fishermen and provide immediate assistance before medical screening.

“Fifty-nine fishermen were affected by the incident. Four boats have arrived here at Senya Bereku. Two went to Tema and one went to Chorkor. Everybody is safe,” she stated.

Officials are currently documenting the victims’ statements while providing basic relief items before allowing them to reunite with their families.

The MP also expressed appreciation to the security agencies and rescue teams whose swift response ensured that no lives were lost.

Canoes and Boats Accounted For

Reports indicate that seven fishing canoes were targeted during the attack.

So far:

• Four canoes arrived safely at Senya Bereku
• Two canoes reached Tema
• One canoe moved toward Chorkor

Authorities are continuing to gather details regarding the canoe that docked at Chorkor, although officials have confirmed that the fishermen on board are safe.

The safe arrival of all boats has brought relief to families and fishing communities who feared the worst when news of the attack first broke.

Armed Robbery at Sea

The attack reportedly occurred during a routine night fishing operation.

According to Gizella Tetteh-Agbotui, armed men approached the men under the cover of darkness and opened fire with warning shots before boarding the canoes.

The attackers allegedly:

• Held fishermen at gunpoint
• Fired warning shots
• Seized equipment
• Disabled fishing vessels

The suspects were said to be operating a black boat, and they reportedly targeted fishermen working along the Nyanyano fishing zone.

More than 50 fishermen were temporarily stranded after the attackers stole vital equipment.

Items stolen include:

• Seven outboard motors
• Generator sets
• Fishing equipment
• Other valuables

The MP noted that the nationality of the attackers has not yet been disclosed as investigations continue.

Emergency Response and Medical Checks

Following the attack, local authorities coordinated a rescue operation to ensure the fishermen returned safely to shore.

Upon arrival, the fishermen were received by:

• NADMO officials
• Police investigators
• Community leaders
• Health personnel

The victims are currently undergoing medical examinations and psychological assessment to ensure they did not suffer serious injuries or trauma during the incident.

Officials say the fishermen will be allowed to return home after completing the health checks.

Growing Security Concerns at Sea

Fishing communities along the Central and Greater Accra coasts depend heavily on night fishing expeditions, making them vulnerable to maritime crime.

Local leaders are expected to call for:

• Increased naval patrols
• Improved maritime surveillance
• Protection for fishing vessels
• Faster emergency response systems

Investigation Ongoing

Security agencies have launched investigations to identify and arrest the attackers responsible for the robbery.

Statements are currently being collected from the victims to assist with the investigation.

Authorities have assured the public that the perpetrators will be tracked and prosecuted.

Summary

All 59 men attacked at sea near Senya Bereku have been successfully rescued and returned safely to shore, bringing relief to their families and communities. While no lives were lost, the attack resulted in the theft of valuable fishing equipment and highlighted growing security risks facing fishermen along Ghana’s coast.

Investigations remain ongoing as authorities work to identify the attackers and strengthen maritime security to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Source: 3news.com

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