The Ghana Navy is investigating a suspected pirate attack on the Ghanaian-registered fishing vessel MENGXIN 1, which was ambushed in Ghanaian waters on the evening of March 27, 2025.
In a press release issued by the Ghana Armed Forces, officials confirmed that seven armed individuals boarded the vessel at approximately 5:53 PM, firing warning shots and forcing crew members into hiding.
The assailants remained on board for three hours, confiscating mobile phones before making their escape.
After the attackers departed, the crew discovered that three key members— the Captain, Chief Mate, and Chief Engineer, all Chinese nationals—were missing, raising fears of abduction. Due to the lack of mobile network coverage at sea, the remaining crew had to sail closer to land before reporting the incident.
The vessel has since safely docked at Tema Fishing Harbour, where Marine Police and Naval Intelligence personnel have confirmed the attack and suspected kidnapping. Authorities have shared information with neighboring countries through the ECOWAS Multinational Maritime Coordination Centre (MMCC) to enhance security measures and locate the missing crew members.
Ghanaian intelligence agencies are actively pursuing leads to rescue the abducted crew members and apprehend the pirates.
This latest incident underscores the persistent threat of piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, a region that has seen increased maritime security efforts in recent years. Ghana’s security agencies are urging vigilance among fishing and cargo vessels operating in the area.
Authorities have assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safe return of the missing crew members and to prevent further pirate attacks in Ghanaian waters.
