The government has donated GH¢5,000 each and seven outboard motors to fishermen in Senya Beraku whose equipment was stolen during a violent robbery attack at sea, as part of efforts to restore their livelihoods and strengthen confidence among coastal fishing communities.

The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur, presented the items to artisanal canoe owners on Tuesday, March 3, describing the intervention as a fulfilment of a commitment made to the victims.

The donation follows a harrowing incident on Thursday, February 26, when armed men ambushed fishermen off the coast of Senya Beraku in the Awutu Senya West District of the Central Region.

The victims, who had gone fishing in the early hours of the day, were reportedly returning to shore when the attackers, operating a black boat, allegedly opened fire and made away with outboard motors and generator sets.

A total of 71 fishermen were affected in the attack. Although all were later rescued through a joint operation involving the Marine Police, the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and local fishermen, they were left stranded at sea for hours after their engines were forcibly taken at gunpoint.

Presenting the outboard motors, Madam Arthur said the government remains committed to protecting fisherfolk and ensuring their safety on Ghana’s waters.

“We cannot leave our fishermen to bear this loss alone. This support is to help them get back to work and continue providing for their families,” she stated.

She added that the ministry is working with security agencies to put in place measures to prevent similar attacks in the future.

The Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya West, Gizella Tetteh-Agbotui, also commended the security agencies for their swift response and assured the victims of continued government support.

Some of the beneficiaries expressed appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama and the Ministry for the timely intervention, describing it as a major relief after the traumatic ordeal.