No deaths recorded in the Elmina Harbour accident — GMA clarifies

The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has refuted claims regarding the tragic loss of eight individuals in a marine accident at the Elmina Fishing Harbour on Monday, August 18.

In a statement released on Thursday, August 21, 2025, the Authority confirmed that all 27 crew members and fishers aboard the affected vessel are safe and accounted for.

“Contrary to claims circulating in sections of the media and on social platforms, there were no fatalities. Reports alleging the loss of eight lives are entirely false,” the statement read.

Edward Essien, caretaker of the canoe, verified to the GMA’s Elmina Office that he and everyone aboard emerged unharmed.

Preliminary findings according to the Authority indicate that the wooden fishing canoe, registered as CR 338EL, collided with a sea defence structure at the harbour entrance shortly after departing around 2:36 PM on Monday.

All 27 crew members swam to shore safely, with only minor bruises reported.

While the vessel eventually sank during towing efforts by its owners, who lost fishing gear in the process, a crane was engaged by Thursday morning to assist in recovering the wreck.

The GMA highlighted that initial assessments point to operator error due to excessive speed, causing the vessel to lose control.

Investigations are ongoing to determine the causes of the collision, the status of operator licensing, adherence to harbour speed limits, and overall safety procedures.

The Authority also advised the public against disseminating unverified information that could lead to unnecessary alarm.

Again, the Authority urged both media and citizens to validate information through official channels, reiterating: “Once again, we emphasise, all 27 crew members and fishers are safe, and reports of fatalities are false”.

The GMA further assured that it is dedicated to ensuring lives are protected and that maritime operations in Ghana’s waters are conducted safely.