On Tuesday, 3 February 2026, the Western Naval Command (WNC) conducted an intelligence-led operation at Sekondi Fishing Harbour, seizing 75 gallons of suspected diesel fuel. The action followed credible intelligence received regarding an ongoing illegal fuel transaction at the harbour.
The Command Operations Officer, Commander Joshua MacSimpiney, promptly led a team to the scene. Upon arrival, operatives observed the suspected fuel being offloaded from a canoe. The product and the canoe were immediately seized and escorted to the Naval Base Sekondi for further investigations.
Two suspects were apprehended at the scene and are currently assisting with investigations. Samples of the seized diesel have been collected by the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) for forensic analysis to determine its composition and quality.
The two suspects have been handed over to the Marine Police for continued interrogation. All relevant stakeholders, including the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Customs Division, CID, NPA, Marine Police, National Investigations Bureau, and National Security, have been duly informed and invited to the Naval Base Sekondi.
The Flag Officer Commanding WNC, Commodore Samuel Ayelazono, cautioned the public against illegal fuel bunkering, emphasising its threats to maritime security, the environment, national revenue, legitimate businesses, and coastal communities. He reaffirmed the Command’s and Ghana Navy’s unwavering commitment to intensifying operations against all forms of maritime crime.
