Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak has commissioned a new fleet of patrol boats for the Marine Police Unit of the Ghana Police Service, marking a significant investment in the nation’s maritime security infrastructure.
The Minister emphasised the profound importance of Ghana’s ‘blue economy’, which encompasses fisheries, tourism, and offshore energy as a “vital component of our national development strategy” with vast potential for sustainable economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction.
He stressed the dual necessity of protecting these resources while ensuring their sustainable management to benefit citizens and preserve the health of the oceans.
”The Ghana Marine Police Unit plays a crucial role in maintaining law and order in our maritime domain, preventing piracy, and protecting our maritime resources,” the Minister stated. “This new patrol boat will undoubtedly enhance the unit’s operational capacity.”
The new patrol boats are earmarked for a variety of critical functions, including surveillance, patrolling, and search and rescue operations. The Minister detailed how these new assets will empower the Marine Police to effectively combat maritime threats.
These vessels are to enable personnel to swiftly respond to distress calls and significantly enhance crime prevention efforts, specifically by preventing piracy, smuggling, and the illegal exploitation of maritime resources. Furthermore, the boats will support the fight against transnational organized crime, such as human trafficking and drug trafficking, ensuring the safety of all citizens and visitors.
Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak reiterated the commitment of the government, led by His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, to “transforming Ghana’s security landscape through innovative initiatives, inclusivity, and community engagement.” He described a secure maritime environment as “essential for our nation’s economic development and prosperity.”
Assuring the Ghanaian public, the Minister confirmed the government’s unwavering dedication to peace and security, pledging to “continue to provide the necessary resources and support” to ensure the Police Service is fully equipped to meet emerging security challenges.
The Minister commended the Ghana Police Service and the Marine Police Unit for their “tireless efforts” in maintaining security in the maritime domain.
He issued a direct charge to the Marine Police personnel: “I urge you to utilize this new asset effectively, working tirelessly to safeguard our maritime borders and ensure the safety of our citizens.”
He concluded by expressing gratitude to the Lima Group and the International Justice Movement for their significant contributions and donations that helped realize the project.
He formally commissioned the patrol boats into service, stating, “May they serve us well in our quest for maritime security and prosperity.”
Story By: Eugenia Ewoenam Osei
