The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has dismissed reports suggesting that eight people died in a marine accident at the Elmina Fishing Harbour on Monday, August 18.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Authority stressed that all 27 crew members and fishers on board the vessel involved in the incident 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.

The caretaker of the canoe, Edward Essien, confirmed to the GMA’s Elmina Office that he and all persons on board escaped unhurt.

According to the Authority’s preliminary findings, the wooden fishing canoe with registration number CR 338EL collided with the sea defence structure at the harbour entrance shortly after setting off around 14:36 hours on Monday.

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

The vessel later sank while being towed by its owners, resulting in the loss of fishing gear. By Thursday morning, the owners had engaged a crane to recover the wreck.

The GMA indicated that initial accounts point to operator error due to speeding, which caused the vessel to lose control. Investigations are continuing into the causes of the collision, operator licensing, compliance with harbour speed limits, and general safety practices.

The Authority cautioned the public against spreading unverified reports that could cause unnecessary fear and distress.

It urged the media and citizens to confirm information with official sources, noting: “Once again, we emphasise: all 27 crew members and fishers are safe, and reports of fatalities are false.”

The GMA assured that it remains committed to protecting lives and ensuring safe maritime activity within Ghana’s waters.