Navy, NPA crackdown on illegal fuel trade on Ghana’s waters

The intensified collaboration follows a series of intelligence-led operations targeting suspected fuel smugglers operating along the country’s coastline. Between January 12 and 14, 2026, a joint operation involving 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 on both land and sea. In a separate operation on March 11, personnel from the Command Naval Intelligence unit and the Special Boats Squadron intercepted suspected illegal bunkering activities at the Tema Fishing Harbour. During the exercise, authorities confiscated one dende and eight 1,000-litre containers filled with suspected crude oil. Another anti-narcotics operation conducted on March 27 also resulted in the seizure of seven gallons of fuel and a canoe. According to the Eastern Naval Command, several similar operations have been undertaken this year as part of ongoing efforts to tackle petroleum-related crimes on Ghana’s waters. The seized petroleum products were later handed over to the NPA for further investigations and necessary action. On May 19, naval officers began destroying some of the confiscated boats after removing 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 dismantled or used for naval target practice at sea. Speaking during an engagement with the NPA in Tema on Tuesday, May 26, Commodore Solomon Asiedu said the exercise was intended to discourage individuals involved in illegal petroleum operations. He noted that the destruction of the boats would serve as a strong deterrent to anyone planning to engage in unlawful fuel trading activities. Chief Executive Officer of the NPA, Godwin Edudzi Tameklo, also underscored the importance of the partnership between the Authority and the Ghana Navy. According to him, naval personnel possess the specialised training needed to confront criminal networks involved in illegal fuel trade, many of whom are armed. He added that the collaboration is aimed at reducing unlawful petroleum activities on Ghana’s water bodies and deterring offenders.