Africa-Press – Ghana. Mr Muntaka Mubarak Mohammed, the Minister for the Interior, has commissioned four newly acquired marine patrol boats for the Tema Marine Police Unit, reaffirming government’s commitment to strengthening the operational capacity of the Ghana Police Service.
The boats are named MV Ernest Ako, MV Paul Quaye, MV Mohammed Alhassan, and MV B.S.K Kwakyi.
The acquisition formed part of broader efforts to enhance maritime security and protect Ghana’s territorial waters.
Mr Mohammed said the acquisition of the boats demonstrated government’s resolve to provide the Police Service with the essential logistics required to perform its duties effectively.
He noted that the marine environment had become increasingly complex, requiring modern tools and equipment to respond to emerging security threats.
He stated that the new patrol boats would boost the efforts of the Marine Police Unit in curbing piracy, terrorist activities, smuggling, and other water-related crimes.
“These boats will significantly enhance our operational presence at sea and strengthen our ability to safeguard Ghana’s marine space,” he said.
The Interior Minister commended the Marine Police Unit for its continuous role in securing the nation’s water bodies, adding that the new additions would further expand their capacity.
He urged personnel to remain disciplined, professional, and dedicated to protecting the public.
Mr Christian Tetteh Yorhunu, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), expressed profound appreciation to the government for the support, describing the gesture as a major boost to marine law enforcement.
He said the boats were equipped with advanced technology capable of improving surveillance, speed, and rapid response operations along Ghana’s coastline.
It would also enhance patrol capacity, deter illegal fishing, oil theft, narcotics trafficking, and other cross-border crimes.
Mr Yorhunu assured that the patrol boats would be put to good use and maintained properly to ensure long-term service.
He said the Ghana Police Service remained committed to ensuring that the Marine Police Unit continued to operate efficiently in safeguarding the nation’s waters.
He added that the protection of Ghana’s maritime domain was crucial to national development, especially, as the blue economy grew in significance.
Senior police officers, representatives from the security services, and community stakeholders who attended the ceremony, lauded the initiative as timely and necessary, particularly as maritime-related criminal activities continued to evolve.
The event saw a demonstration sail by the newly commissioned boats, showcasing their capabilities and symbolising a renewed commitment to maritime safety and security.
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