The Ghana Navy has arrested 10 stowaways, who were on board the Panamanian-flagged merchant vessel, Grand Venus.
The stowaways were picked up by the Ghana Navy after responding to a distress call on Friday, October 31, 2025.
The operation took place about eight nautical miles southeast of Tema.
The Ghana Navy indicated that preliminary investigations revealed that all ten suspects, who are Nigerians, had secretly boarded the vessel while it was docked at Lagos Port, Nigeria.
Distress call
Naval authorities said the stowaways were discovered during the vessel’s voyage to Ghana, prompting the distress alert to naval units operating off the country’s coast.
According to officials, a navy patrol team was swiftly deployed to intercept the ship and ensure the safety of the crew and vessel.
The Grand Venus was later escorted to the Tema Main Harbour, where the stowaways were handed over to the appropriate authorities, including Port Control, the Ghana Immigration Service, and the Marine Police, for further investigations.
Officials said the incident underscored the Ghana Navy’s vigilance and commitment to maritime security and law enforcement within the country’s territorial waters.
They further gave assurance that additional details would be made available as investigations continue.
Writer's email benjamin.glover@graphic.com.gh
