Pirates Attack Ghanaian Vessel Firing Warning Shots, 3 Missing Crew Found Safe

Three Chinese crew members who went missing after a suspected pirate attack on a Ghanaian-registered fishing vessel have been confirmed safe, China’s foreign ministry announced on Monday.

However, no details were provided regarding how or where they were found.

The incident took place on Thursday evening when seven armed individuals stormed the vessel MENGXIN1, firing warning shots.

According to Ghana’s armed forces, the attackers remained on board for about three hours, during which they assembled the crew on deck and took away their phones.

Several crew members managed to hide during the attack.

After the attackers left, the crew found that the ship’s captain, chief mate, and chief engineer were missing.

The vessel later docked at Tema Fishing Harbour and Ghana’s navy launched an investigation into what was described as a “suspected pirate attack.”

The Chinese embassy in Accra did not comment on the situation.

A ministry spokesperson stated that China would continue working with Ghana to protect the safety of its citizens and institutions in the country.

Piracy is a recurring threat in the Gulf of Guinea, where commercial and fishing vessels frequently come under attack.

Over the years, maritime watchdogs have reported that many Chinese-owned vessels operate under Ghanaian flags to fish in Ghanaian waters.

Authorities in Ghana are continuing their investigation into the incident.

References: Reuters, Washington Post

Source: Maritime Shipping News