The Ghana Police Service has taken delivery of four new patrol boats to enhance the operational capacity of its Marine Police Unit, a move expected to improve security along the country’s over 550-kilometre coastline significantly.

Ghana’s coastal corridor supports fishing, trade, offshore energy operations and other key sectors of the blue economy. However, the Marine Police Unit has long struggled with limited logistics, hampering efforts to combat illegal fishing, piracy, smuggling, human trafficking and other maritime crimes.

The new vessels are expected to enhance enforcement and improve response capabilities across Ghana’s territorial waters.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony on Wednesday, November 19, the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, said the arrival of the boats represents a major investment in Ghana’s maritime security architecture.

“We will continue to provide the necessary resources and support to ensure that our police service is equipped to deal with emerging security concerns. I am confident that these new patrol boats will enable them to carry out their duties effectively,” he said.

Inspector-General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, said the vessels will improve coastal patrols and increase police visibility along the country’s maritime corridor. He noted that the boats will give the Marine Police Unit the mobility, speed and resilience needed to safeguard lives and protect livelihoods.

“Your dedication and professionalism are crucial to our success, and I have every confidence that you will continue to serve with distinction. May these patrol boats serve us well in our quest for maritime security and prosperity,” he added.