The Ghana Navy has intensified its operations against illegal fuel bunkering activities along the Volta Region coastline, leading to the seizure of large quantities of fuel and the interception of specially modified canoes used for smuggling.
In an intelligence-led operation on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, naval personnel from the Naval Base at Nutekpor conducted coordinated raids along the Abeliakorpe and Atokukorpe landing beaches in Aflao. The operation, which lasted from the early morning hours into the afternoon, targeted suspected stash houses and makeshift structures linked to illegal fuel distribution.
The raid resulted in the seizure of 162 fuel-filled 25-litre gallons and 32 fuel-filled 200-litre barrels, believed to have been stockpiled for illicit sale and distribution.
In a follow-up operation on Thursday, January 15, 2026, the Navy intercepted seven specially constructed wooden canoes, locally referred to as “dendes,” along the Keta–Denu–Aflao coastline. The canoes, suspected to be used for offshore fuel bunkering, were found carrying 378 empty barrels designed for smuggling petroleum products.
According to the Navy, the suspects fled upon sighting the naval patrol vessel, abandoning the canoes. The seized canoes were subsequently towed to the Tema Harbour to assist with further investigations.
The Ghana Navy reaffirmed its commitment to securing Ghana’s maritime domain, safeguarding national security, protecting marine biodiversity, and ensuring the sustainability of the country’s blue economy.
It has also appealed to coastal communities to support ongoing operations by reporting suspicious activities along the shoreline.
The operation forms part of broader efforts by the Ghana Armed Forces to clamp down on illegal fuel trade and related criminal activities along Ghana’s coast.
