The Eastern Naval Command of the Ghana Navy and the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) have intensified efforts to combat illegal fuel trading activities on Ghana’s territorial waters.
The renewed collaboration follows a series of operations targeting suspected fuel smugglers and illegal bunkering syndicates operating along the coast.
Between January 12 and 14, 2026, an intelligence-led operation conducted jointly by the Eastern Naval Command, Naval Training Command, and the Special Boats Squadron led to the seizure of seven dendes, an outboard motor, four gallons, and 383 drums containing suspected crude oil. The operation was carried out both on land and at sea.
In another operation on March 11, operatives from the Command Naval Intelligence (NI) and the Special Boats Squadron intercepted suspected illegal bunkering activities at the Tema Fishing Harbour. Authorities seized one dende and eight 1,000-litre containers filled with suspected crude oil.
A separate anti-narcotics operation on March 27 also resulted in the confiscation of seven gallons of fuel and a canoe.
According to the Eastern Naval Command, several similar operations have been conducted this year as part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on petroleum-related crimes on Ghana’s waters.
The suspected petroleum products were subsequently handed over to the NPA for investigations and further action.
On May 19, naval officers began destroying some of the seized boats after hauling them from the water at the Tema Fishing Harbour in the presence of fisherfolk and members of the public.
So far, five boats have been destroyed, while others are expected to be either dismantled or used by the Navy for target practice at sea.
Speaking during an engagement with the NPA in Tema on Tuesday, May 26, the Flag Officer Commanding the Eastern Naval Command, Commodore Solomon Asiedu, said the exercise was intended to discourage individuals involved in illegal petroleum activities.
“We believe this will serve as a strong deterrent to persons planning to engage in such illegal operations,” he stated.
Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority, Godwin Edudzi Tameklo, also stressed the importance of the collaboration between the NPA and the Ghana Navy.
He explained that naval personnel are specially trained to confront criminals involved in illegal fuel trade, many of whom are armed.
“The NPA has been working closely with the security agencies, especially the Navy, to reduce illegal petroleum activities on our water bodies. The aim is to serve as a deterrent to those engaged in these unlawful acts,” he said.
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