Ghana has taken a major step in strengthening its maritime security architecture with the commissioning of four new surveillance boats for the Marine Police Unit, a milestone that government officials describe as “a decisive investment in protecting the nation’s blue economy.”
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister for the Interior Muntaka Mubarak Mohammed emphasised that Ghana’s ocean resources remain central to national development, contributing significantly to fisheries, tourism, offshore energy, job creation and poverty reduction. He stressed that safeguarding these resources is essential to sustaining economic growth and ensuring environmental stewardship.
“A secure maritime environment is crucial for our national prosperity. These patrol boats will enhance surveillance, enable faster response to distress calls, prevent piracy and smuggling, and protect our maritime resources from exploitation,” the Minister said. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment under President John Dramani Mahama to building an innovative, inclusive and community-centred security system capable of addressing emerging threats.
Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno echoed the Minister’s sentiments, noting that Ghana’s expansive coastline and exclusive economic zone remain vulnerable to a growing range of threats—from illegal fishing to transnational organised crimes such as human trafficking and drug trafficking. The new boats, he said, will significantly boost the Marine Police Unit’s operational capacity.
“These assets will strengthen our ability to patrol our waters, respond to emergencies and deter maritime crimes. This acquisition reflects government’s unwavering support for the Ghana Police Service and the safety of our citizens,” the IGP stated.
Both leaders expressed profound appreciation to key partners, including the Lima Group of Companies, the International Justice Mission (IJM), the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, Ghana Gas Company Limited, the Ghana Maritime Authority, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Ghana Navy for their support through training, equipment, logistics and infrastructure.
The IGP highlighted IJM’s critical role in establishing a pilot marine police patrol team on Lake Volta and donating additional patrol boats and vehicles that have improved operations around the lake. He also applauded the Lima Group for seamanship training and support throughout the construction and acquisition of the newly commissioned vessels.
The event paid tribute to past Inspector-Generals of Police whose vision laid the foundation for the Marine Police Unit, as well as all security and maritime stakeholders whose collaboration continues to fortify Ghana’s maritime safety.
In a closing message, both the Minister and the IGP charged Marine Police personnel to demonstrate professionalism, vigilance and dedication in utilising the new assets to protect Ghana’s maritime borders and ensure public safety.
The Interior Minister formally commissioned the boats into service, praying that they would serve Ghana effectively “in our quest for maritime security and prosperity.”
paqmediagh/Peter Quao Adattor
