Ghana Navy Dismantles Illegal Fuel Bunkering Syndicates in Volta Region

The Ghana Navy has successfully disrupted illegal fuel bunkering operations along parts of the Volta Region coastline following two coordinated, intelligence-led operations conducted earlier this week.

On Tuesday, January 13, 2026, personnel from the Naval Base at Nutekpor carried out a major anti-illegal bunkering raid along the Abeliakorpe and Atokukorpe landing beaches in Aflao. The operation, which lasted from 5:00 a.m. to 1:40 p.m., targeted multiple stash houses and makeshift structures suspected to be used for the storage of illegally traded fuel.

The raid resulted in the seizure of 162 gallons of fuel stored in 25-litre containers, as well as 32 barrels with a capacity of 200 litres each. The items were confiscated as part of efforts to clamp down on illicit maritime-related activities that pose threats to national security and economic stability.

In a related operation on Thursday, January 15, 2026, the Navy intercepted seven specially modified canoes, locally known as “Dendes,” along the Keta–Denu–Aflao coastline. The vessels were suspected to be involved in illegal fuel bunkering activities at sea. Upon inspection, the canoes were found to be carrying 378 empty barrels designed for fuel smuggling.

The suspected perpetrators fled the scene after sighting a Ghana Navy ship. The canoes were subsequently seized and towed to the Tema Harbour for further action.

The Ghana Navy has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the country’s maritime domain and combating illegal activities along the coast. It has also called on coastal communities to support these efforts by reporting suspicious activities, stressing that such collaboration is vital to protecting national security, preserving marine biodiversity, and ensuring the sustainability of Ghana’s blue economy.